Q+A: Victoire Focx
Constance Victory, the Creative Director and designer of Victoire Focx, emailed TiC recently to tell us how they loved our blog. Well, we in return love her bags that were just shown at Milan Fashion Week! With its first collection called "Bag to the basics; a Return to Luxury", Victoire Focx has already been written about in Style.it and WWD. I wasted no time speaking to Miss Victory and getting her to share a little more about herself and Victoire Focx.
Do share with us the story behind Victoire Focx - has it been something you always wanted to do, to come up with your own line of designer bags?
I began designing handbags back in 2007 when I discovered an old camera with undeveloped film in it. After developing the film, I realized that all of the images were of architectural motifs that had fascinated me from a trip that I made to Italy during the previous year.
I was interested in developing a line of high end handbags, and lacking a sufficient source of inspiration, I decided to use the architectural images as a point of reference for stylizing the bags. I'm always inspired by the motifs of different edifices while strolling down the street--whether I'm in Queens, NY or Milan, Italy.
What does Victoire Focx mean?
Victoire is French for Victory, which is my middle name. Fox is my fathers last name, but I took the C from Constance and placed it in the Focx to create a more unique spelling with a more personal meaning.
And how would you describe yourself?
I’m a very consistent person. I've been consistent with my interest in the design field since the age of 9, and I've worked toward this dream ever since. I attended the Rhode Island School of Design, and after that I worked with different wardrobe stylists and designers.
I love designing and the whole act of creating something new and interesting that is pleasing to me, and could possibly gain appreciation from others.
Your bags are absolutely gorgeous, not to mention unique in so many different ways. How do you come up with these designs/ideas?
For the design process, I look through photographs of recent journeys--since I always photograph cathedrals, landmarks and anything else architectural that strikes me-- and create varying abstract shapes that are inspired by the edifices that I've seen.
I modify the shapes, sometimes making them more or less practical, and then I decide which skins and other materials would make unexpectedly beautiful accomplices to the designs.
Do tell us about your first collection: "Bag to the Basics; a Return to Luxury"
For the first collection, I aimed to revive the old world tradition of intricate design paired with immaculate craftsmanship, all done by hand. Nowadays, the market is saturated with mass produced goods, leaving little room for the more eccentric, uniquely designed garments and accessories.
Because the bags are so one of a kind in design, when a woman carries a bag, she feels a certain pride--comparative to owning a rare piece of artwork. That's luxury! Portable artwork that is not only admired in your home, but also while you are out shopping, dining, or leisurely strolling.
What are the focus and perhaps theme for your designs?
Eccentric shapes, paired with exotic skin patchwork and cut outs certainly is my trademark design.
You do seem to be no stranger to the fashion world. Do tell us more about your experience in fashion.
Well, as I mentioned, I graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) where I studied apparel design, and after graduating I went on to work for legendary fashion stylist Patti Wilson, supermodel turned handbag designer Alek Wek, and Be & D accessories.
Working with such talented people was a true learning experience that taught me the in's and out's about building, promoting and maintaining your brand in such a competitive market. Though I have no formal training in accessory design, I do feel that RISD trained my eyes on how to see fine art and design in everything that I experience.
How long would it typically take to produce one of your creation?
For the factory to produce a bag, it typically takes 3-4 full days.
Is your collection only available in the US? How about the other countries and Asia? :)
My bags are available all over! One can order a bag online at the website, and we can ship the bag anywhere in the world within 6-8 weeks from the day of ordering.
What is the price range of your bags?
Bags range from $1200USD-$2500USD
How would you describe your personal fashion style?
My personal fashion style has evolved so much over the years. Right now, I am all about the simple black dress that hugs the silhouette, paired with a gorgeous bag and belt (if needed). It's all about the accessories!
Care to share your favourite shops and which country you love to shop in?
For everyday wear, my favorite shops are ZARA (NYC), H&M (Milan) and MANGO (Madrid). For special occasion shopping I like stores like INTERMIX (NYC), SCOOP (NYC) and Henri Bendel (NYC).
I would definitely have to say that NYC and Rome, Italy are my favorite places for shopping. With so many little shops and street vendors, there's more opportunity to buy unique pieces, or at least style it in a unique way.
Any plans for the near/far future? :-)
The brand is currently producing a line of belts and gloves with a similar aesthetic to the bags! I'm pretty excited about this project. So look out! :)
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You can check out Victoire Focx here or read her blog here.
