B. Marie Spring 2010 Handbag Preview + Interview

Briana Bigham recently held an intimate cocktail party for the industry, media, and friends at Maritime Hotel at Cabanas. At the cocktail event guests got the first look at her B.Marie (her first initial and middle name) Spring 2010 collection. B. Marie handbags are ahead of the game; we saw one of a kind designs, lots of metallic studs, different fabrics pairings, never before seen prints, and a variety of shapes and sizes. The pieces are versatile and durable for working women. We loved how each bag easily transitions from the daytime to the nightlife. Here is a closer look at B.Marie Spring 2010 plus our interview with Briana about the collection and her company.

Briana Bigham modeling the “Coin Purse”

JohnSimonDaily: What was your inspiration for creating the spring 2010 collection?
Briana: I wanted to create functional bags that exude confidence.

JSD: What fabrics were used this season?
Briana: I stuck with a color palette of black, electric pink, and charcoal with silver hardware.

JSD: How does it differ from your last collection?
Briana: The first collection was me pushing the envelope with crazy print and unconditional fabrications. It was more to get the word out on the line, then producing that collection. Receiving feedback for the upcoming season. For Spring 2010 I produced a collection that has more widespread appeal. But still keeping in tune to who I am using a lot of metal hardware and pop linings.

JSD: What do your handbags say about you?
Briana: I’m fearless.

JSD: Do you have a favorite piece from this seasons collection?
Briana: I don’t think I have a favorite piece. Each one is special in its own way. I created a signature saddle bag that is large and durable for everyday use with a hard edge of studs. A trendy cross the body bad for the girl that likes a bold touch to an accessory. And the handmade clutches I call the ‘A. Entity’ inspired by Tina Turner’s character Aunty Entity from the 1985 movie Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.

JSD: What are the price points?
Prices start $300 for white label, to $1600 for exotic skin and fur handmade bags
JSD: What is next for B.Marie handbags and where are you hoping to take the company?
Briana: Unload Spring merchandise and start all over again for Fall 2010. And so on. I am adding unisex overnight bags and duffle bags going forward.

JSD: Who is the B.Marie clientele?
Briana: A person that has their own lane when it comes to fashion. Not interested in following trends, but setting them.

JSD: Where can we purchase the handbags?
Briana: The e-commerce B. Marie Style Boutique will be added to my main site www.bmariestyle.com, Monday, February 15, 2010.

Washington Redskins receiver Devin Thomas x Briana

Brooke, Bridget, and Briana (BET’s Harlem Heights cast members)

Bridget Bland x Briana Bigham

Special thanks to Briana!

Throughout the month of February (Black History Month) XOJOHN will be featuring African American entrepreneurs; highlighting their success and career accomplishments in their respective fields.