Indie Designer Interviews: Lemonade Accessories
Filed under: Handbags, Accessories, Interviews
We love all of the amazing independent designers out there and we wanted to find out more about what makes these creative types tick. If you do too, check out more of our Indie Designer Interviews.Today we'd like to introduce Megan Burgess, the young designer behind Lemonade Accessories, a line of retro-inspired bags, headbands, scarves and more.
Tell us a little about yourself and your work. I'm Megan, a twenty year old college student. I live in central Florida, where I've been my entire life. My sewing machine and I make small, cute accessories.
How did you get started as a designer? I started sewing when I was 15 years old. I can't remember what made me want to learn to sew but my grandma (who conveniently lives next door) taught me. I was hooked from the start. After a few months, my dad bought me my own sewing machine.
The first few bags I made were very basic. They were basically squares with handles. I didn't care, though. I was so proud that I made something! I gradually got better at sewing and tried making my own clothes. (I actually made a few dresses, including a Dorothy costume!) After a few hits (and many misses) on the clothing front, I decided that I should stick to handbags and the like. I started Lemonade in early 2006. It took me a while to find my niche but I think I've got it now. I love what I do!
Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? Do what YOU want to do and what you LIKE to do!What inspires your work? The 1960s, I am obsessed with everything '60s. (Ask my husband, I have the Hairspray soundtrack set to repeat every day for the rest of our lives.) Aside from that, my inspiration can come from anywhere.
Who are your favorite designers?
Indie designers: Oh So Retro (she's an inspiration, for sure.) I have several favorite indie artists, too many to list!
Fashion designers: I like Marc Jacobs and Carolina Herrera very much. I also like Michael Kors because he rocks it on Project Runway.
What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves?
Fashion: I have a khaki-colored sling/messenger style bag that I can't live without. It's very hippie. I also like my skirts and brown sandals. And black ballet flats.
Beauty: CHI flat iron and mascara.
Where can people find your work? You can find me at my website, www.lemonade-accessories.com, on Etsy at lemonade.etsy.com and you can read my shop blog at lemonadeaccessories.
