The Stylist Embodied: Kelsea Slade of K.slademade

Femininity exists in a variety of forms, but we think that courageously pursuing a passion and doing so with beauty, grace and confidence is definitely a hallmark.

That’s why we’re so excited to introduce you today to Kelsea Slade, owner and designer of K.slademade. She’s a self-starter who jumped into the entrepreneur arena in 2010 with a desire to create her own line of classic, American-made handbags.

Below we’re sharing her colorful approach to business, life, and staying unique in a digital age, so keep reading to learn more about this Stylist Embodied… and to find out how to win one of her creations for yourself!

Darling Magazine: What prompted you to start your own business?

Kelsea: I love handbags but I could seldom find a bag that was just right. I knew that I wanted to use my creativity and I felt that designing handbags would be a perfect way to use it. I longed for designs that were simplistic and classic. I wanted something that didn’t have a lot of hardware or logos. It was a perfect marriage for my creative brain and my desire for the perfect handbag.

DM: Why is it important to you that your products are designed and made in the US? How do you ensure they’ll stay that way?

Kelsea: I have always been a fan of this country from a patriotic bedroom growing up to wearing an American flag dress to my Junior prom.  This love helped form the foundation for my business, to have all of my designs manufactured in the US.  I am proud to make that a priority for my business and I plan to continue making it a priority.  It will require continued effort over time to keep the costs down. Manufacturing in the US is almost 4x as much then overseas, but it is well worth it.

DM: What does it look like for you when inspiration strikes? Is there a certain creative process that you follow?

Kelsea: It looks like me madly typing in my notes section on my phone so that I don’t get distracted and let the thought pass me. Design ideas comes to me while traveling. I am the strange girl in the airport or on the park bench checking everybody out. I love seeing how people do life and the accessories they wear to make them feel a certain way. I want to create product that makes you feel confident, pieces that give you an extra pep in your step.

I love seeing how people do life and the accessories they wear to make them feel a certain way.

DM: In light of Pinterest and all things digital these days, how do you continually think outside the box and trust your own eye for design and inspiration?  

Kelsea: It’s tough to be original when we are constantly bombarded with images from Pinterest to Instagram. For this reason I have to get out and go be a part of life and see how people do life so I can begin to dream up how to incorporate my designs into real life. The internet is fun, but I am about real experiences and being inspired through them.

DM: You seemed to have grabbed an amazing opportunity in entrepreneurship and grown your business fruitfully – is there any advice you would like to give to those just starting out?  

Kelsea:  Be brave. Don’t be afraid of the unknown. We could spend our whole lives planning, but the adventure really begins when you start doing. Build relationships with people. Learn how to let others help along the way.

DM: Do you see your line expanding in the near future? For example, expanding beyond handbags, or any exciting collaborations you have in the works?  

Kelsea: Fall/Winter 2015 has some cool things up its sleeves with the brand itself and the products! We will be introducing vintage and woven materials into product, and eventually adding men’s accessories to the line.

DM: If you could go back and do one thing differently at the start of your business, what would it be?  

Kelsea: I spent a long time trying to do everything myself. I wish I had reached out for help sooner from manufacturing to PR. If I could have concentrated on what I enjoyed, design, then I wouldn’t have been spinning my wheels for those first few years.

DM: What are you most proud of with your company? 

Kelsea: I am more humbled then anything be a part of this adventure. I feel blessed for the opportunity to do what I love everyday.

**Be sure to check our Instagram account today for a chance to win one of Kelsea’s beautiful clutches!**

You can also stay updated with Kelsea on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Images via Abby Coyle; Styling by Sara Kate Little