YANA Handbags
The best part about living in New York are the young, talented artists. This summer I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Yana Evans, a handbag designer in the City. She was fabulous enough to take some time out of her busy schedule to talk with SHEI about running a successful handbag line.
SHEI: Tell us a little about yourself, Yana.
Yana: I’m originally from Chicago. And I actually started out as a painter and sculptor. A lot of people don’t realize that about me. My background is Fine Arts. I’m hoping to begin showing at galleries again this year!
SHEI: What is YANA handbags?
Yana: YANA Handbags an affordable luxury. We are socially conscious in our business practices and we are fun! YANA bags are unique and intended for very fashion forward women. We want to to be the accessories accessory…. something you can throw on with a wife beater and jeans and instantly look dressed.
SHEI: Have you always loved fashion?
Yana: I have always loved fashion! I used to watch Chanel shows on TV when I was 6 years old! I don’t really know why. My mother wasn’t really into all that. But I always thought fashion was a glamorous world. I think my parents thought I was a little eccentric for loving international fashion so much.
SHEI: Who do you think is the most creative fashion designer out there right now?
Yana: Oh, that’s hard to say. I have more than one! I’m in love with Alexander Wang right now. I think he is really hitting his stride. Eddie Borgo is the jewelry designer that I admire most today. And my all time favorite bag designer is now and forever Judith Leiber.
SHEI: Where do you find your inspiration?
One of Yana's many handbags: "Sexy At All Times"
Yana: Everywhere. It could be anything from a mood to a paint chip. Everything is inspiration. I must admit that I do have a running theme of nostalgia in my work. (For example, I have doorknocker hardware that is based on an earring from the dollar store that I used to wear all the time when I was 12)! It’s actually the signature piece on most of my bags.
SHEI: Where do you see YANA Handbags in a year from now?
Yana: I see YANA Handbags in major department stores, in at least twenty boutiques worldwide. I also see stronger community outreach through mentoring programs and a green certified manufacturing. We want to be an artsy brand that everyone is buzzing about a year from now!
SHEI: What is your favorite part of running YANA?
Yana: Feeling like I am in control of my own destiny. I’m not going to be laid off or fired, but at the same time the pressure is all on me to make the business a success. I enjoy that pressure though. It motivates me.
SHEI: What is it like living in New York City as a young artist?
Yana: Living in New York City is a struggle, but so much fun! To be young in New York means partying, discovering yourself, and making connections that may not be possible anywhere else in the United States.
SHEI: What is your proudest moment working at YANA?
Yana: I think my proudest moment was when we actually hired our first employee. It meant that we were really growing.
SHEI: What is your favorite YANA handbag?
Yana: My favorite bag is the Marry Me Clutch. Second is the Keepin’ It Real Belt Bag. Keepin’ it Real is the best seller, but Marry Me is a more artistic bag.
SHEI: What are three things that people don’t know about you?
Yana: My brother is Naledge from the rap group Kidz in the Hall. My parents are from Mississippi and Alabama so I am a bit country at heart. I am SO Chicago at heart that I go home often just to take in my home city.
Yana offers several handbags: Belt Bags, Clutches, Hobos, and Satchels! Check out YANA Handbags and pick out something fun for the holiday season.
