Jessica Jensen designs coveted bags. Stunning design, superb quality, and an emerging brand, her product offerings are gaining large recognition internationally. Having graduated from Ryerson Fashion Marketing and worked on over 25 international brands, Jessica Jensen is extremely well versed in the world of fashion.

The element that has me captivated by the purses is the fact that each piece boasts a certain timelessness that’s rare to find. I had the chance to delve into the subject of Jessica’s expertise (after the jump).

1. Tell me about yourself and the Jessica Jensen Brand.

I believe in effortless fashion, quality workmanship and attention to detail. I am also just a girl at heart…never too old to forget that life should be simple and fun. The Jessica Jensen label is a visual expression of my own personality. The collection is unpretentious and focuses on luxurious detailing, quality leather and superior craftsmanship. It is comfortable and easy to wear. Not intimidating like so many trendier lines. It also speaks to the girl inside of us all. Each bag is lined with our signature blush pink suede lining and everytime a woman opens up a Jessica Jensen bag for the first time, I see her light up like the girl that she is at heart

2. Where can we find your collection (other than in all the major Canadian Magazines)

Other than in US and International magazines? You can shop Jessica Jensen online at www.shopjessicajensen.com, www.endless.com and www.ebags.com. You can also find the collection in about 20 store locations across North America, including Takashimaya New York on 5th Avenue. Locally in Toronto, I suggest visiting TNT in Hazelton Lanes or on Eglinton. This way, you will be able to experience the leather textures and detailing first hand.

3. Fit is to clothes as ________ is to handbags.

Function. Why carry a bag just for style…it should serve the purpose of carrying all of your everyday everythings and still look fabulous.

4. How do you factor seasons into the design of your handbags?

For Fall and Winter months, the collection is geared to darker colours with glazed or coated skins to protect against harsh weather. For Spring and Summer, a variety of naked skins are used, lighter colours are incorporated and breezier, lighter weight silhuoettes are added to the line.

5. What is your current coveted handbag (a bag that inspires you)?

Normally, my answer would fall within the designs of Bottega Veneta, but right now I would say i am truly inspired by the light grey croc clutch by Valentino. It’s hand-worked floral applique is so exquisite. And secondly, the Salvatore Oversized White Python Clutch for its simple twist (tips that fold down and add contrast) on a pared down silhuoette.

6. How do you get over the “big bag syndrome”, IE. When girls put EVERYTHING into their bags day-to-day (including things such as battery chargers and things we generally don’t need)

Simple, I tell them to put a clutch into their “big bag”. Take the big bag to work and their clutch to lunch. It’s the best of both worlds!

7. How is Spring/Summer 2009’s line coming along, and what can we expect?

We began showing SS09 in August to retailers. I’m very excited about it. The line grew to over 100 skus for the season. I couldn’t stop myself from adding more washed out breezy tones to the colour palette, such as dusk grey, beeswax yellow, white, mocha and slate blue. And on top of that, I added a few new light-weight styles, such as the artisan hobo, the harmony hobo and market and mini-market totes. You can start shopping the collection in February 09!