Clutch is bags of fun for Khensani

TO CELEBRATE a decade of conquering the fashion scene, contemporary women's collection designer Khensani Nkosi of Stoned Cherrie has teamed up with cosmetics powerhouse Clinique. She has created an exclusive clutch bag for Clinique's winter beauty essentials.

Nkosi's label, established in 2000, is an African lifestyle brand that is expressive of urban culture in South Africa.

It is the first time ever that a local designer has been chosen to design a Clinique gift bag. The bag will also feature in stores around the world.

The pink and plum bag can add the perfect pop of colour to any woman's outfit. It features the envelope-style transitions nicely, making it appropriate for an afternoon party or an elegant evening affair.

Beautifully crafted in luxurious texture, the bag has African flair, borrowing a bit from Nkosi's design palette. It will be available exclusively to selected Edgars and Red Square Stores and is free when spending R850 or more.

According to Natasha Bennett of Clinique, Nkosi was the obvious choice when they thought about doing this campaign.

"She's every bit the modern South African woman - glam, successful, fulfilled. We have had campaigns of this nature with overseas designers. We wanted something similar for the African market," Bennet said.

Nkosi said she felt privileged to be chosen for this campaign.

"To do a campaign of this calibre is not only exciting but fulfilling. It is a good way of a celebrating a decade in business," she said.

Nkosi said 2010 has been a very good year for her label. She said the company was moving its head offices to her house in Sandton.

"We are moving to a more designer oriented realm for our clients. We want to create personal contact with them in a warmer environment," she said

She explained that they wanted to make the business a lifestyle emporium, which would also serve as their command centre.

The industrial psychologist said the bag would complete any woman's outfit.

"To a woman a handbag is an essential expression of how she sees herself. So we designed something that is characterised by refined classic elegance."

She said the bag was inspired by "everything about our country and the continent. The stark contrasts, landscape, socio-political influences, history, sub-cultures, tribes, spirituality, so many things."

Nkosi said that modern women were particularly meticulous and mindful about accessories.

"That is why shopping includes significant purchases of clutch and evening bags. Demand for such products never ceases all year round."

A guide to buying a clutch or evening bag.

  • How much do you want to spend?

Clutch and evening bags can be expensive if you are buying designer brands, but they are good quality. Treat them like investments. In general, the more expensive, the more durable and fashionable they become. They could last a lifetime if used with care.

  • What do you intend to carry?

Clutch and evening bags are more than just fashion accessories. They are functional too. You could carry any necessities such as make-up, perfume, cell phone and car keys. If you tend to carry many items, consider buying a bigger clutch or evening bag.

  • Do you intend to use the bag for a particular occasion?

Clutch and evening bags are considered important and noticeable accessories for specific and special occasions.

  • How dressy is the occasion?

If it is a posh event, you need to look elegant. For less-formal events, bags that look fun (with bright colour or unique style) are recommended.

  • What colour is your outfit?

Your clutch and evening bag should match and complement your outfit . Before you shop for a bag , your dress should be ready or you should know the style and colour of your outfit. If you are wearing black, buy a bag with added colours, especially with metallic and deep colour. The bags should also match other accessories, such as jewellery. - Additional info www.handbag.com

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