Ole Miss graduate and Dallas resident Kelly Wynne White always had an obsession with handbags and accessories. After working in public relations for three years, she was getting rather antsy. So she began toying with the idea of starting her own handbag company.
"You have dreams like this growing up, but you never think you're going to do it," she says.
White is the epitome of the driven Texas entrepreneur: She does all of her own designs, seeks out materials and hardware, and takes care of the business side.
After loads of research and sketching, in February 2012, White was doing it. She also learned how some of her favorite designers — Tory Burch, Kate Spade and Rebecca Minkoff — launched their lines. "I even found Rebecca Minkoff's factory and honed in on how she started," she admits.
White is the epitome of the driven Texas entrepreneur: Within a year, she had launched her brand. She does all of her own designs, seeks out materials and hardware, and takes care of the business side. "I need interns," she confesses.
All of her efforts have paid off. White's line comprises shoulder bags, clutches, totes, cross-body bags, satchels and hobos, in 23 combinations. All of the bags are made with leather or printed suede; the latter is how she mimics stingray leather in an affordable, but just as chic, way.
The bags are lined with cheerful green fabric and sport the KW logo. Names reflect the celebration of her collection, such as "Mingle Mingle Mini," "Here's to You Hobo" and "Cloud Nine Clutch." Prices range from $295 to $495.
Most of the materials White uses for her bags come from the United States, and she says we have a lot more to look forward to in the fall season, including new colors, new embossed leathers and her favorite color combination: black and camel.
Kelly Wynne handbags are available at Haven and La Marque in Dallas, both locations of French Cuff Boutique in Houston, and Valentine's Too in Austin. Kellywynne.com launches the week of May 6. Until then, you can also pre-order via email at shop@kellywynne.com.
After getting an eyeful of White's collection, we are becoming obsessed with accessories too.
Dallas handbag designer Kelly Wynne White left a career in public relations to start her line.
Miranda Lambert, right, with rodeo queens onstage at the 45th Cowgirl Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon at Dickies Arena. Photo by Ashley Gongora 