Testament to
the brilliant networking opportunity provided by #ProjectScouted is Becca Blair
being introduced to the Project through fellow sponsor, Ryan Francis of
Shoelaced Clothing. Becca, owner and designer at Becca Blair Designs, has been
designing bags, her true passion, for only three years since June 2012 but has
made an indelible mark in the Durban fashion industry.
1.
What made you want to become a #ProjectScouted sponsor?
I just wanted to join an exciting project. It’s a cool team of
people and its always great getting exposure to a new crowd in Durban. I also
thought it would be great collaborating with other Durban creatives.
2.
What do you love most about the Project?
I love the fact that it is held over a long period of time, like an
ongoing platform, making it more thrilling and the entrants get super amped
each step of the way.
3.
What is the best part of being a designer in Durban?
Durban is tiny, so people spread the word for you. They are proud to
buy from local designers and the support is great. There is a certain Durban
style and I have to, as a designer, cater for that as well as adding a touch of
my vibe to the designs. Its challenging, but it’s good.
4.
How did you find your passion for designing and creating bags?
I used to sew and bags seemed to be the first thing that came to me.
Just basic canvas bags. I love bags, I used to collect them when I was a kid. I
had more bags than “Kitty in my Pockets”. I had bags in bags in bags. I never threw
them out. I was a hoarder; Hello Kitty
bags, bowling bags, see-through bags, velvet bags, etc.
5.
What is a typical day like for you?
Hmm... I wake up. Shower. Have some tea. Go to the factory where I
either do stock-take or pack bags up for deliveries or posting. I drive to
collect fabric for the next lot of bags, deliver bags around Durban, stand in
the queue at the Post Office, while answering emails on my phone, visiting
manufacturers/embroiderers, or I’m on my laptop at the factory working on
social media: Facebook, Instagram, and my website. Or I’m editing photos of the
bags or photos from a recent shoot. I also do visits to boutiques around
Durban. I make sure I am busy!
6.
Are you willing to share any info about your phase in the Project?
All I’m going to say now is that there is going to be a fashion show
and some bags to giveaway at the end! Get keen, everyone!
You are
definitely not going to want to miss out on what Becca has in store for the
#ProjectScouted ladies! With the Project beginning on 28
February 2015 with Phase One and the launch, hopeful young ladies have only one
chance left to be a part of this experience by attending the open casting at
Hashtag restaurant on 21 February 2015. And remember that all shoots and events
are open to the public free of charge.
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