Posh bags boast some bling
But that's not stopping Kate Walton from playing the UK celebrity card. Since launching her range of handbags into London some 18 months ago, the designer has garnered a loyal following among the likes of Victoria Beckham and Cheryl Tweedy.
A following she believes will help drive the brand's impending launch into the Australian market.
"With the success of havetohold handbags in England, I thought the products would fit well in the Australian market," she said. "I've found Australians very similar to people in my hometown."
Already receiving some positive feedback from a report run by the British Consulate in Australia, Walton is also fielding interest from Japanese and US-based buyers.
Specialising in Italian leather and ponyskin handbags, havetohold is manufactured in London and all pieces are finished off with vintage jewellery from England, Paris and Ghana. Wholesaling from $198 to $470, the latest collection includes clutches, night bags, day bags and weekenders with each item featuring cotton lining and a branded leather label.
Taking inspiration from the English classic film Bedknobs and Broomsticks, the spring/summer 2007 collection features a palette of tan, pale pinks, stone greys, khaki and metallic silver and gold.
Currently selling to specialty boutiques and stores, Walton said her label would appeal to "the trendiest 20-year-olds to the sophisticated women in the 60's."
Since launching her own Newcastle boutique in England earlier this year, Walton said she has come to better understand her core demographic.
"It's grown so much in the past year and a half and I spend a lot of time sourcing things from around the world so by having my customers come in I can still keep on top of what they are after. Every single bag is unique and they expect that."