handbag architect, vintage shopping ninja
My collage of skills is a blend of my shared family skills, college education, and small business experience.
I was born into a family of entrepreneurs and sewing is a multi-generational skill handed down to me. From an early age, I would work with my mom to sew my school clothes, and by age 12 I made my first bag: a duffel bag for gym class.
I took my love of sewing and fashion to Washington State University where I earned my BA degree in Fashion Merchandising. Then I moved to England for an internship at Liberty of London in the womens buying office - where I got my first taste of Fashion Week. After college, I worked for several years as a Merchandise Manager – selecting seasonal collections at JC Penney before I decided to create my current label, in 2001.
Crystalyn Kae began first as a storefront, selling artwork and handcrafted goods of other artist’s work – in addition to my own designs. By 2005, my business had grown to a point that I needed to focus solely on my own line. I created my first collection of purses out of reclaimed materials: men’s plaid wool pants. I filled a suitcase with bags and took them door to door to boutiques, eventually expanding to wholesale shows in San Francisco & New York City. Since that time my brand has expanded to a nationwide loyal following.
About the bags: Since 2001, Crystalyn Kae Accessories has designed and produced women’s handbags and accessories from ethically sourced and reclaimed materials. Founded in Seattle, the company relocated to NYC in 2013. Crystalyn Kae products are available in over 40 specialty boutiques, our online store and at selected sales events across the country. You can follow Crystalyn's creative journey on her blog.
