Bags more structured than your Angelina’s jaw line, we get an inside scoop on all things Sofia Fima with an interview with Dianna, the designer. From big inspirations, to thoughts on why she started and how she did it all, you’ll be sure to fall in love with both the leather and the story behind each stitch.
1. How did you get started?
It started with a closet full of handbags I never wore. As an architect I am attracted to streamlined designs with a distinct point of view. I never found a well-crafted, leather handbag made in the USA that covered my life in 360. I wanted a structured piece that worked to carry everything I needed for the day. I’m over the slouchy bag! I wanted something deliberately constructed with structure as the foundation.
I am weaving together my family’s rich heritage of old world construction with a luxury object to make an intentionally fabulous and functional handbag. There is nothing more satisfying then going out to dinner and seeing someone wearing your handbag and loving it.
I take great pride in being involved in every step of the pieces construction. I oversee all aspects of the collection and have close relationships with every person working on them. Every piece is made with love in Manhattan.
2. Why Sofia Fima?
Sofia is my mom and Fima is my dad. I lost my mom in 2007 to a long battle with MS. She was the strongest woman I have ever known and will always be my role model. She had incredible taste and was always at the forefront of fashion. My sister and I have both shared her vintage Lanvin dresses for our proms! My father always pushed me hard to succeed and hoped someday I would become an architect. My parents are the biggest and greatest influences I have had in my life. Coming to this country from the former USSR 36 years ago, not speaking a word of English and facing a lot of adversity, they gave me the courage to believe that anything is possible if you work hard for it.
Launching a handbag line wasn’t easy. My success thus far has come from the values that my parents instilled within me and seeing them overcome their share of adversity. My development as an architect has enhanced my appreciation for the details. Unlike a piece of architecture where the building is stagnant our handbags are pieces of architecture on the move!
3. How is the transition from a 9-5 to now doing what you love?
Anyone in the design world knows that there is no such thing as 9-5! I work longer and harder than I ever have before. Every day is a workday, there are no weekends, and there are no nights off. With that said because I am pursuing my passion it doesn’t feel like I am working nonstop. I am inspired daily to push my own limitation as a business woman, a creative director and as a designer and therefor don’t feel I am working nonstop. The most empowering part would be seeing an idea go from inception to creation and then being worn by a customer. This is what it is all about at the end of the day; giving the customer a special piece of everyday luxury that’s coveted and adored.
4. Where do you see Sofia Fima in a year?
I see Sofia Fima as a quiet storm affect. The brand is becoming known via an insider word of mouth and I expect that to continue. It’s a brand that is sought out and appreciated for its approach to clean design that is highly functional. I would say our bags are akin to Valextra. People who know about the brand know and those who don’t appreciate its timeless design and exquisite craftsmanship. Sofia Fima is a heritage brand that I expect will transcend as a lasting staple for years to come in ones closet. These pieces are meant to be passed down and shared between the generations.
5. What inspired your designs?
Overall my major source of inspiration is space. I find this experientially in architecture and visually in art. Defining and creating space to me is mesmerizing. With each handbag I try to capture a specific volume of space for a specific function of bag. Beyond that I would categorize my inspirations like this;
1. Functionality – It has to work and be organized
2. Architectural Details – Geometric forms and hardware connection details
3. Body placement – It has to sit on your body comfortably and proportionately
6. Which is your favorite piece or design that you’ve created?
I get the most use out of the Sutton, which is my everyday bag. I tend to carry a lot with me and this is the perfect size to do just that and not feel overloaded. It’s easy to keep in my hand, throw it over my shoulder or wear it cross body depending on what I am doing.
The details are what make the bags shine and stand out. One in particular is the lining. It is always fuchsia suede with multiple compartments for organization. I like to think of it as lingerie. No one needs to see it but you and it makes you feel really special.
Very personal and meaningful designs and functionality, Sofia Fima has nowhere to go but up. This new line of handbags are the newest thing in today’s modern-minimal world.
Shop Sofia Fima today through this link.
In Collaboration with Sofia Fima.