For the thrill-seekers and carefree girls, Mink Pink the way to go. Seeking inspiration from street style and vintage design, Australian label Minkpink was launched in 2005 for crowd-stunners who loves dressing up without breaking their banks on their closets.
Picking backpack may be hard since it becomes part of local fashion. But now you can carry it with style by using Herschel Bag from Canadian local designers.
A backpack is widely popular because of its comfort. This all-time favorite bag definitely doesn’t only suit best to children, but also to those who are in college or even in office.
If you reminisce over your childhood, you might choose a backpack just because there is an image of your favorite cartoon character stick on it. Well, possibly, when you have to buy a backpack, you’re no longer concerned on its charm, but the function itself. If you’re still confused in choosing the most suitable backpack, below are the factors which would be your consideration before buying a new one.
Size does Matter!
Size is the first thing you have to think since backpacks are available in wide range of size. You need to think about what kind of stuff you will place on your future backpack. Is it just a book, laptop, or personal care? If you still have no idea about it, just think where you will bring the bag, for example office, college, gym, short-trip travel destination or other places. This will actually help you outlining about the stuff which will be carried. The stuff you’ll bring will specify the size of your backpack you have to choose.
The Brand and Design
If you’re the type of person who is loyal to your favorite brand, you can just pick the model that suits your personality the best. Yet, if your favorite brand doesn’t have one, why don’t you give other brands a try? There are many finest quality backpacks from Herschel Supply Co. awaiting to be tried!
Herschel Supply Co., a Vancouver-based manufacturer, successfully brings local fashion into global market with good functional features and fashionable design of backpacks. Each Herschel backpack is equipped with signature liners, pocket, and key clips. Herschel bag also comes with many variant products that could meet your expectation.
For example, Herschel Settlement Backpacks are ideal for college students or officers who often bring laptop along with them. Herschel bag is classic, yet elegant. It is created by its local designers that surely will make you stunned in any occasion.
Actually, those two aspects mentioned above are not the primary factors. But those are still important to be considered while you’re selecting the right backpack. The perfect size, brand, and design of backpack certainly will make you feel comfortable whenever you use it and wherever you go!
Hailing from Japan, MT is the original brand of washi paper masking tape, created by the 100 year old company Kamoi Kakoshi.<img align="left|right|middle|top|bottom">
Colorful and simple, MT tape can be torn by hand and is easy to reposition. The tape can be used on paper, objects and walls. MT is semi-transparent so it can be especially pretty when it's layered, it’s also easy to write on so it’s handy for making notes or messages.
MT is ideal for temporary decoration, for tiny objects to entire rooms, and for ordinary or special occasions throughout the day, from sealing a lunch bag to making a special gift wrap.
The superior level of ‘just right’ adhesion allows MT to be easily repositioned and to be used on painted walls without damaging paint.
The Finnish brand on a mission, always making a difference and looking for troubles to solve. Unique in terms of function, design and user-friendlines, Magisso products are simple but smart.
The Magisso Home products have already been noted by CNN, InStyle, GQ, Wired, Fast Company and Apartment Therapy, receiving some of the world’s most prestigious design awards.
Kitchen is the heart of Home Smart Home, so that’s where you'd find us.
Bellroy Elements Phone Pocket Pre-Order on SHOPDECA
Designed for those who like to keep their essentials together. All-weather leather and a water-resistant zip means your valuables will remain protected from any sudden downpours or other elemental surprises.
Internal organization helps segment your phone, cash, cards, a key and more, avoiding the awkward rummaging around that comes with other all-in-one wallets. It's organized protection in a single pocket.
Pre-order is now available at SHOPDECA.com
How to pre-order:
1. Go to Bellroy's brand page on our website
2. Select Bellroy Elements Phone Pocket
3. Proceed to check out page
It all started as a design experiment on a Kickstarter project in the summer of 2012. Founders Michael & Tom were looking for a fresh start and a new concept to explore.
In frame: Sunski Lime Originals
After a shoestring surf trip to Australia shortly after school, he collected a few vintage thrift store artefacts that caught his eye and seemed to capture a beach-life aesthetic perfectly aligned to the Australian coastal lifestyle which later on became an inspiration for the Sunski Kickstarter project.
In frame: Sunski Headlands Blue
Made completely in house, the sunglasses avoid expensive prices without compromising their quality. Using high end materials, the glasses provide polarized protection for the active and the outdoorsy.
On the 12th of December, Indonesian e-commerce stores come together to hold their biggest online promotions called HARBOLNAS (Hari Belanja Online Nasional) just like the infamous Cyber Monday in the US. This year more than 70 e-commerce stores are participating in HARBOLNAS, a jump from last year's 30 participants.
Shopdeca will be having up to 70% off selected items, both local and international brands for 24 hours on 12.12.14. A great bargain with more than half the price slashed, truly a chance not to be missed!
Featuring our big favourites;
SELV, LEXON, DNR, ZYK, CATSY, TRE, JOSEPH &PETE, ZLABA, PITA, UGNA, SPOTLIGHT, AEROCULATA, BUTTONPATCH, SOURIRE, CHIC & DARLING, ASAMA BWGH CHEAP MONDAY FEIST HEIST, FLAT OUT, GENTS, INCASE, MAKE MY DAY, MATAHARI, MINK PINK, MISTER, MUSTARD, NAKED AND FAMOUS, ORCHILL, PUBLISH, RI BY CARRIE, RIVIERAS, SACOOR BROTHERS, SUNPOCKET SUNSKI, TWENTY SECOND, THOROCRAFT, TKEES, UMBRA, WANDERWONDER, WESC, YUMUMU, YUNA, OUT OF PRINT, JBL, HARMAN KARDON
LINE users are also entitled to a 10% off exclusive with no minimum purchase.
TELKOMSEL users get cash back Rp200.000 for your next purchase! (For every purchase over Rp1.000.000)
Mark your calendars and anticipate the biggest online event of the year and get shopping!
Be prepared - www.shopdeca.com/harbolnas
For more information on Harbolnas, www.harbolnas.com
The Komono Magnus Acid Denim Watch brings you back to hot summer fashion in the 80s. This nostalgic yet fun watch has a chocolate-coloured face, and matching dials and bevels that compliment the denim. With superb quality, this piece is definitely a timeless piece and will be always be a favourite, even in years to come.
2. Bellroy Elements Travel Wallet (Cognac)
Featuring a water-resistant zip and heavy-duty leather, the Elements Travel keeps your essentials protected in tricky situations. Inside, there’s a travel pen for customs forms, a slot specifically for your passport, room for multiple currencies, and even enough space for your smartphone. Sure beats a beige body belt.
3. Herschel Little America Mid-Volume Backpack (Navy)
The Little America backpack is one of Herschel’s bestselling styles. Inspired by classical mountaineering packs, the bag is large without being uncomfortable with its soft mesh back padding. With a padded laptop sleeve, internal media pocket, and enough space to bring much more, it’s the bag for the eager urban explorer.
4. AIAIAI Tracks Headphone Kitsune w/mic
Another amazing combination of music and fashion; AIAIAI teamed up with the famous Parisian record label Kitsune and created this special edition pair of headphones. With both companies heavily invested in bringing the best quality sound and design to their customers, the AIAIAI x Kitsune Tracks Headphone has cool aesthetics with an ergonomic fit. It also comes with a 3 button in-line microphone with call, music, and volume control, making this a convenient and compact gadget to own.
5. Mischa Jet Set Tote (Periwinkle)
The Jet Set Tote Bag is the classic carryall to hold all your daily essentials. Created from 100% cotton canvas with calf leather trims, the bag is silk-screen printed and finished with a weatherproof coating. The Mischa signature print takes inspiration from traditional Japanese hexagon motifs and bold geometric 1960s interior designs, while the interlocking hexagons represent the sea tortoises shell, symbolising longevity. You can easily pair this bag with any outfit of the day!
6. Marie Turnor Dinner Clutch (Tan)
The Marie Turnor Dinner Clutch is larger and dressier than its counterpart, the Lunch Clutch. With an interior pocket and hidden magnetic closure, the Dinner Clutch is perfect to carry for your long nights out in town with friends. It is made of soft, crinkly leather, making for a simple and comfortable clutch to use.
7. Shadowplaynyc Sagan Galaxy Scarf
ShadowplayNYC is in love with the marvels of nature and the universe. Sagan Galaxy Scarf celebrates the beauty and wonder of space with a high quality photograph printed onto the jersey cotton tube scarf. It’s edgy, original, and simply wicked.
8. Loom Birds In The Sky Pillow 45x45cm (Ivory)
Graphical birds in different sizes and colors to give a more modern feel in your decoration items. This decorative pillow is made from linen, rayon, and cotton fabric.
9. Joseph Joseph Ovi Closable Pinch Pots Set (White/Grey)
The ultra-smooth, pebble-like shape of the Ovi Closable Pinch Pot set by Joseph Joseph make them extremely tactile and a stylish addition to the table. Their closable design not only looks great but also prevents any contamination of salt and pepper when not in use. Simply twist the top half of each pot to reveal a large aperture, allowing easy access for fingers. The design comes with its own matching coaster, to keep both pots neatly organised on the table.
10. TRE Studio In and Out Floor Lamp
Classic but with an eye for the contemporary, this In and Out Floor Lamp brings a unique atmosphere to the space. The vertical illumination glistens with a comfortable light, and easily fits the aesthetics of any room. The steel sprayed in black finish creates a bold outline to the core of its design.
For more gift guides! - http://www.shopdeca.com/giftguide
We heard from the little elves that some of you guys are having trouble looking for the perfect tech gift for the geeks in your lives.
Here at Shopdeca, we've put together 10 favourites from our tech category to help with your gifting. Perfect for brothers, dads, boyfriends or husbands!
1. Moshi Revolt 2.1 Amp Car Charger (Black)
The Moshi Revolt lets you charge your device while on the road using any
USB cable to suit your gadget. With a coiled 30-pin to USB charging cable, it stays neat and tangle-free.
2. Harman Kardon Portable Headphone for iPhone (Black)
A Euro-styled Harman Kardon Portable Headphone incorporates high-end stitched leather and stainless steel. The signature Harman Kardon acoustics are housed in Foldable earcups that deliver the Harman Kardon reputation of sound quality and rendering the Harman Kardon Soho functionally flat for safe housing in the ultra-slim, fits-anywhere carrying case.
3. Aprolink AproGear Wristband Smartwatch
Keep track of your health and fitness progress with a smart wrist-mounted tracker featuring a built in pedometer, calorie counter and sleep tracker to help quantify and measure your daily activity. Sync the smartwatch with your smartphone and track your fitness history with the custom built app.
4. AIAIAI TMA-1 DJ Headphone w/Mic
Pro quality performance with a modern appeal, the TMA-1 DJ Headphones with built-in microphone are the ultimate pair for world-renowned DJs, such as A-Trak, 2MANYDJS, Boys Noize, and Hot Chip amongst others. Tested in studios and on tours worldwide, these headphones are a specialised piece of equipment for the hard working musician and audiophiles alike. It also comes with a 3 button in-line microphone with call, music, and volume control, making this a convenient and compact gadget to own
5. Geneva Sound System Model XS (White)
The Geneva Sound System Model XS is the world’s first portable audio system with true Hi-Fi sound. Inspired by the classic travel clock, it comes in a sturdy leather-like clamshell case that flips open to deliver rich and detailed sound. Never before has a Hi-Fi system been integrated into a case designed for a travel lifestyle, until now.
6. Adonit Jot Pro Dampening (Silver)
The Adonit Jot Pro is the best non-active stylus for iPad. The sound dampening tip simulates natural pen and paper contact for a smoother and quieter stroke. The rubber grip provides comfort when using to draw or take notes. Capable of magnetically attaching itself to your iPad for storage and transport, the Jot Pro is an unrivalled accessory for the high tech notetaker.
7. Aprolink micro USB & 8-pin to USB 2 M
The Aprolink Micro USB & 8-pin to USB cable is what you'd want if you're tired of carrying different cables for different devices. It has both micro-USB and lightning bolt cable ends allowing you to charge and connect to both Android and Apple devices. No more worrying about compatability!
8. JBL Micro Wireless Speaker (Blue)
The JBL Micro Wireless is the first ultra-portable speaker featuring a Li-ion rechargeable battery, built-in bass port and wireless Bluetooth® connection. With a 1-5/8-inch (40-millimeter) driver, it delivers full-range JBL® sound with exceptional bass. Fits easily in backpacks or clips onto clothing. You can wirelessly stream audio to the speaker from any Bluetooth-equipped mobile phone or tablet, or use the included audio cable to connect the speaker to any mobile device or MP3 player. You can even daisy-chain with other JBL Micro Wireless speakers for a powerful sonic experience.
9. SpeedUp SmartWatch (Red)
Innovative and revolutionary. The SpeedUp Smartwatch is the World’s first Android 4.4 KitKat Smartwatch. A vibrant, multi-touch tempered glass 1.54” display allows for a clear, crisp, viewing experience while the low power MIPS-based 1Ghz processor running the energy efficient Android 4.4 KitKat OS and low power Bluetooth 4.0 keeps battery life strong and keeps the watch running for up to 2 days.
Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, the SpeedUp Smartwatch is a great addition in this new frontier of wearable technology.
10. PT Iphone Case Camera Sillicone (Blue)
Relive the days before digital photography with the Retro Camera iPhone Case! This iPhone case will fit the iPhone 4 or 4S and adorn it with the retro good looks of the analog age. The silicone case will help protect your phone from scratches and drops.
For more gift guides! - http://www.shopdeca.com/giftguide
It's never snowing in Jakarta but our spirit still lives! Here at Shopdeca, we've put together a playlist of our favourite xmas tunes to immerse into the festive season! Have a listen here---> @8tracks: SHOPDECA's Non-Winter Xmas by Shopdeca.
SHOPDECA Gift Guides: Naughty or Nice, We've Got it Covered!
Naughty or nice we have it all covered!
Here at SHOPDECA, we've put together our top 10 best gifts for each category to get you through gifting in a breeze. Choose from our variety of products from our well-loved brands. Personal indulgence is allowed too, we won't tell!
Choose from a selection of activewear such as gym wear, exercise foot wear and even swim suits!
Made to compliment any style, keep updated with on trend tech gadgets such as phone cases, headphones and port hubs for your favourite geeks!
Got you covered from head to toe. Including accessories!
Keep your men looking suave with precious leather accessories and shirts for any occasion!
Shop our favourites under Rp 300,000 or $30 out of Indonesia. Choose from quirky novelties and unisex t-shirts!
The queens of our hearts deserve only the best with quality home ware for every woks of life!
Cute kidswear and accessories to match Mummy's fantastic style!
Keep your jet-setting buddies on check with essentials for their travels!
Stationery and quirky desk novelties to spruce up their college life!
Shop from our top 10 ultimate favourites from SHOPDECA!
Yun & Shairah, the lovely duo behind Stitches and Maps; a lifestyle blog with plenty of DIY tutorials, travel adventures, fashion and food! The two started Stitches and Maps in 2012 to explore their shared passion for writing. They focus on Food & Travel topics with a dash of DIY, because that's less commonly found in Singaporean blogs today but have since expanded into Style.
Besides creating engaging content for their blog, these two best-buds also enjoy having a good gathering of friends, regardless of indoors or outdoors and often input DIY into their party themes.
Peek into our Sunday brunch where we discovered their same but different personalities and gathered styling tips!
Yun shows us how to accessorize and jazz up on trend all-white outfits while Shairah is the maestro of colour blocking! Perfect for the festive season!
How did stitches and maps come about?
Y&S: We get asked this question a lot, and it's become quite clear, to us especially, that we were drawn to our shared love for writingand story-telling. We also love getting hands-on and making our own simple things like jewelry and customized items of clothing that we have. Of course, we also enjoy the whole process of getting down and dirty with paint and what not. We had the sense that a blog with a direction like ours would probably be less popular in Singapore as the audience here is more attracted to fashion and beauty blogs but this has somehow worked out well for us and we have had lovely opportunities to meet and work with a bunch of local blogs, companies and craftsmen.
On Yun: AAD Spaghetti Strap White Top Mischa CDG Clutch (Camo Orchid) Nixon Sentry Leather Strap Watch
On Shairah: Chained the Label White Top
What are your day jobs and how do you handle a blog amidst having a day job?
Yun: I'm the Editorial Manager at a menswear title, The Rake. We cover poignant historical features on the opulent and well-read, and we study the fabric on tailored suits. Doesn't quite sound like my cup of tea? That's because it isn't. However I must say I've learnt and read a lot on conversations and themes I wouldn't otherwise venture into, and for that alone I am very appreciative. My job is a 9-to-5 (and I make sure of that) - after work hours typically see me doing yoga, window-shopping in town, or chowing down something delicious. My latest craze is Llao Llao, the yoghurt chain at the basement of 313 Somerset. Anything blog-related is constantly on my mind. If I get a spare moment, I explore my Instagram page and prowl the Internet for more inspiration than my brain can handle, or would like to.
Shairah: My job scope might make me sound a tad bit like a tech-nerd but I assure you, I'm far from it. I'm an Engagement Specialist at Circus Social. Day to day activities usually see me researching and creating content for our clients' social media platforms, as well as project management. We've got a cosy team in Singapore (read: small) so the workload can be unpredictable at times, thus the 9-5 thing doesn't apply to me! Yun's the one that constantly bombards be during work hours, which I usually don't address till 3 days later.. I'm the type of person that sucks at replying to Whatsapp messages. Unfortunately.
How would you describe your lifestyle?
Yun: I would say I'm quite the average cafe-hopping, Instagram-active, book-reading girl. I don't see any of what I do as "hipster" anymore, as it's no longer something you could even put a name to. It's just the evolution of the scene in Singapore,and everywhere else, today. I also enjoy Bikram yoga, which is something I picked up from my best friend. I love the good 90 minutes of complete perspiration and breathlessness.
On Yun: Elsife White Sleeveless Classic Shirt KOMMA Abigail Skirt NIXON Burgeon Snap Back Hat NIXON Sentry Leather Saddle Watch
Shairah: My lifestyle is very similar to any other working adult - boohoo! No its not that bad. I place a bigger importance on the simple things like catching up with friends, trying out new food places, catching the latest movies - almost every week I head to the movie house! I'm not that different from the average Singaporean girl. ;)
On Shairah: Anynome Watercolour Pencil Skirt Daniel Wellington Lady Classic Sheffield
Why do you think design is important?
Yun: Good design means being able to hold a strong character. I'm a fan of making a statement and I believe in letting my heart rule my head. As a result, what I typically perceive as "good design" possess a powerful identity, minus the fluff. Design is a reflection of individuality.
Shairah: I'd like to think that I'm a pretty practical person, so practicality and functionality in design is very important to me. I'm not the sort who buys pretty things that I know I won't use, I'm quite manly that way. Haha! The perfect marriage of design andfunctionality to me would be something useful yet gorgeous.
On Yun: AAD Spaghetti Strap White Top Mischa CDG Clutch (Camo Orchid) Nixon Sentry Leather Strap Watch
On Shairah: Chained the Label White Top
Favourite 3 products from Shopdeca?
Yun: Cheap Monday, Herschel Backpack, Mischa Jet Set Tote Camo Orchid
Shairah: Daniel Wellington Lady Classic York (Rose Gold), Mischa Travel Clutch, Citrune Label Gavril Bucket Bag (Maroon)
What inspires you guys?
Yun: I'm going to sound like a broken record here because close friends have heard this a million times - I look to Kate Spade New York for most of my inspirations. I love that they're advocates for female empowerment and for being unafraid to be bold & loud. They're on the ball with creativity at all times, and spread love through their products, blog entries and campaigns. I especially admire their play of color. They do everything so well.
Shairah: What inspires me most is the people that have guts to actually live their dreams. People who start their own businesses at 23 or 45, people who change their careers after realising their true calling - the best part is that I can find these people in my friends. Until I've found what I really want to pursue in life (still stuck in the wandering stage of life), I'd be more than happy to look at my friends for inspiration.
One surprising thing about each of you?
Yun: My sense of direction does not exist. I enjoy traveling as much as the next person, but I'm terrible with the map. I could stand in one spot with a map for a good 5 minutes, checking over and over again that I will lead myself and whoever I'm with to our destination, but it never comes through. The saddest part of this is that I try really, really hard.
Shairah: I'm not sure if this is considered surprising but while I love dramatic movies and unrealistic novels, I absolutely hate drama in real life. I'm allergic to it and try to stay away from any form of it. I'm glad that the people around me are dramatic in a good way, like Yun!
On Yun: MINKPINK All I Need Dress Mischa Jet Set Tote Camo Orchid Yuna Dahlia Stone Earrings Beneath The Roses Ancross Bracelet
On Shairah: Anynome Lux Baron Top Anynome Dual Tone Skirt
Travels? What is your favourite destination yet?
Yun: I first visited Melbourne when I was 21 and I was instantly taken by it. I believe that was the first few times I'd been introduced to the coffee and cafe culture, and I was fascinated with it. I remember coming home from the trip and raving endlessly about my time there. The shop owners are always lovely, the air always fresh and the roads never unfamiliar. I remember getting onto a wrong tram once (one example of my lack of bearings). It was the middle of the night and I was by myself. Yet, I didn't panic, as I usually would. That was the moment I knew Melbourne must have been made for someone like me.
Shairah: Travelling is such an addiction for me. If I had the money to go on a trip every month, I'd wouldn't think twice about packing my bags. There's just something about experiencing a new city - understanding their culture, people and obviously, their food. I've loved every city that I've been to thus far, but the one that has my heart is London - a place I've never been to before, but one that I'll venture to next year (fingers crossed). You know how sometimes you have this odd inclination towards a place, person or object but quite can't explain it? That's how I feel about London. I haven't been there yet but I already love it.
What achievements are you proud of?
Yun: This is a tough one. I'd say I'm proud of the little things I've done for myself. I make time to read, to improve my languageand views. I search for visuals to better my aesthetic knowledge. I try to be the best friend I can to those who matter. And I diligently go home for dinner so as to make my mom happy. I suppose these are good enough for right now.
Shairah: I'd have to agree with Yun on this one. It's the little things that matter most. I'm at a point in my life where I'm happy about the decisions that I've made - be it work or my personal choices. Things are falling into place slowly but surely.
Any upcoming projects?
You'll know when you know ;)
For more of Stitches & Maps;
Instagram: @stitchesandmaps
Head on over to shop their selection —->http://www.shopdeca.com/sg/curators/stitches-and-maps-yun-shairah.html
On Wednesday, 5 November 2014, Shopdeca.com celebrated an official Bellroy launch with our friends from the creative industry. The team from Bellroy, Josh (Sales Director) and Lincoln (Brand Manager), made the trip all the way from Melbourne to Jakarta to take us on a journey of Bellroy as a brand and as a lifestyle. The party was also well accompanied by Shopdeca.com’s partners from Uber, Euphoria Project, and Common House, who it all would not have been possible had it not been for their support and cooperation!
Over drinks and snacks, guests got a chance to get the inside scoop on what Bellroy is and what Bellroy is all about. Josh and Lincoln from Bellroy gave us all an exclusive presentation and preview of how Bellroy came to be and what they have been working towards ever since it started.
A few lucky members of the press even managed to snag themselves some free wallets for joining in on the fun and being a part of the party!
For those who didn't make it to the event, here is a glimpse of things that were happening there. And for those who came, let's reminisce the good time!
5th of November 2014, 5 PM - Exclusive Bellroy Press Presentation
Josh is demonstrating how a Bellroy wallet will stay slim even if it carries the same amount of things your bulky wallet does to the press.
5th of November 2014, 6 PM - Let's Start The Party!
Hi Reinaldo Kartasasmita! Thanks for coming to the Bellroy Grand Launch event.
Outside of COMMON HOUSE, Benny Lim got a chance to know more about the brand by the team himself.
Our friends from the Neighbourlist got a Bellroy 101 from the team itself.
Stanislaus Hans in his zone to take the best pic for #bellroychallenge.
Thank you MORE BY MORELLO for coming to the event! Look, even Lincoln look pretty psyched!
Thank you for coming, guys!
Yum Nom Nom! Thank you Common House for the catering
Bellroy Photo-Op
At first it was Josh and Lincoln who found the joy of experimenting with the photo-op.
And then people started to join in, in groups.
Jagat Natha decided to take care things on his own way, the artsy way! Way to go!
Shopdeca.com as the exclusive distributor in Indonesia is very proud to announce that everybody can get this must-have Australian brand in our site.
Check Bellroy full range collection here: http://www.shopdeca.com/brands/bellroy.html?limit=all
22nd October 2014 - To kickstart the #IamAPowerWomen campaign, Shopdeca and Mischa invited 10 Power Women from Jakarta -- media darlings, mom’s extraordinaire and career women, who are well-known and inspirational to share their experiences and also to talk about Michelle's journey as an entrepreneur over an intimate luncheon at Le Quartier.
Tell us about your journey as a power woman and a designer.
M: It's a long journey and a very colourful one. I started Mischa as a hobby of mine. I really like travelling, fashion and making handbags was one of the things that I love to do. It started out with me just making handbags for family and friends until it became serious. That was when I started my brand in 2008. Since then, making your passion into your business requires a shift in your mindset. In that process, it really has empowered myself as a designer and as a businesswoman.
What is Mischa's philosophy?
M: I think it's an extension of my lifestyle. Right now, I like to create designs that are timeless and classic so that they'll still be current in many years to come. The idea behind it really comes from my background, a taste of east and west.
What inspires you?
M: Travel. It lets me get in touch with different people and in a different setting all the time. And my girlfriends, they live such an exemplary life!
Can you tell us more about the asian heritage behind the signature Mischa print?
M: When I started making handbags, I was really into the Japanese culture especially the costumes like the kimono and kobe. I use to study Japanese for a while as well so I visited Japan all the time, which led to me starting a collection of antiques and kimono silks which was then used as material for my handbags. Later on as my business developed, I wanted to create a print that was more relevant for everyday use that was active yet still stylish. The hexagon is actually a traditional Japanese print motif representing a sea tortoise shell that features heavily in both Japanese and Chinese art. The hexagon means longevity. So when I was designing this print, I thought this is a a very good sentiment to have for a brand.
Who is the Mischa women?
M: They are likeminded women, active, curious, confident, loves adventure and travelling. They are multi faceted.
How do you connect to your customers?
M: Well, I blog. I try to write and keep things personally. I talk about life, health and travel. We also do a lot on instagram and since my friends are also my customers, I get a lot of feedback from them.
Tell us about the Instagram live feed on your website.
M: When I started the travel series or even starting the brand, it was a challenging process and everyone of my friends and customers knew. So they came along in this journey and they got excited each time they saw a Mischa bag anywhere they went and they would send us photos. Also, they would send photos of themselves carrying a Mischa bag when they travelled. It soon became a thing and it was really encouraging to receive really nice, well composed photos. This came about the idea of #jetsetmischa on Instagram and we decided to incorporate the live feed on our website. Customers who come to view the bags can now see how others are using it and it's an engaging movement, like being part of a club.
These are then made into bag tags?
M: If you notice, the bag comes with hang tags that look like polaroid photos. Every season, we select 6 best photos from our #jetsetmischa off our Instagram to be used as hang tags for the bag. Now, when customers purchase the bags, they can discover 6 women (and now men) who are on the hang tags!
What are the challenges of being a woman entrepreneur?
M: I think I have it a lot easier now. There are quite a few challenges, especially time. I am the sort who wants to do everything. I will try as much to cover all my bases and embark on everything which leads to the lack of balance of work, life and family. I don't have a family now, but I can imagine that it will only get crazier. A lot of my friends are accomplished in their careers and I seek inspiration from that.
Define your personal style and lifestyle?
M: My style is classic and feminine. I don't usually follow trends. I dress to suit my body type and personality. Also it needs to comfortable but with fine tailoring for a timeless look.
My lifestyle is very on the go. I live in Hong Kong which is hectic pace, something that I'm used to. But I do travel for leisure. I enjoy scuba diving and yoga. One of my favourite places to visit is Bali where I enjoy the beaches and yoga retreats or just hang out at beach resorts and not do very much.
3 things you can't live without?
M: Phone - I need to answer my e-mails and instagram! A good moisturiser especially when you travel and a good book. Can I add a 4th thing - my sunglasses!
What is your favourite item from your collection?
M: That will be the current collection, which is the Camo collection, the Jet Set tote. It is my first creation, my first design and a timeless classic. Simple yet stylish is the way to go. It's a practical bag for me as well since I have quite long days sometimes. I can bring a change of outfit taking me from my morning yoga, to work to after hours dinner. I can even fit my laptop in it.
Mischa Jet Set Tote Bag (Camo Orchid)
Mischa CDG Pouch (Camo Orchid)
Future plans for Mischa?
M: Look forward to more variations of product categories.
What defines a power woman?
M: A woman that is confident and multi-faceted so that she excels in many different areas. That she keeps a good balance of time for herself, her career and family.
If you could have lunch with a power woman dead or alive, who would it be?
M: It probably has to be Oprah Winfrey. I truly admire what she has done in her time and from I've read, she has overcome a lot of difficulties and has come out victorious in her field. Many things were against her but she still comes out successful now with a platform for her to spread women's education and women's empowerment. Plus she has a sense of humour! I will definitely ask her if she ever has a bad day.
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