Margarida Kessens: KCFW Q&A
“Functional and fashionable” is perhaps the best way to describe the purses and convertible backpacks of Day’s Eye, by Margarida Kessens. A native of Spain, Kessens seems to be influenced equally by Spanish culture and her needs as a mom of three. Day’s Eye will be the only handbag line at this season’s Kansas City Fashion Week, and Kessens is doing things a little different. Rather than a runway show, her handbags will be featured in a presentation before the Thursday night show on March 29, from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
What brought you out to the Midwest?
My husband grew up in Blue Springs Missouri. While living in New York, we thought it would be easier to raise our kids here: close to the grandparents and with more space.
Are there ways that your heritage and background impact your line at Day’s Eye?
Always. I bring the warm culture, colors, and moods from Spain. I spend my summer there with my family, and I get the full culture immersion. It is very easy to get inspired when you are surrounded by so much history, culture, and traditions that sometimes are overwhelming.
All of your bags are made in Barcelona. Have you noticed big differences in fashion trends between Spain and the Midwest?
People in Barcelona wear backpacks a lot. They are not afraid of color or new shapes. They are also more fashion-forward. Sometimes you see things you don’t see here until a year later. People in Barcelona like to be different. There are more styles, more colors, lots of different looks.
You’re the only handbag line being shown at KCFW this year. How do you differ from other designers?
By showing the functionality and versatility of my handbags. I mix elegant looks that embrace and empower women to achieve their business goals. Elegance does not have to be dull. The functionality of Day’s Eye handbags makes the look fun and smart.
Something unique about many of your bags is that they are easily convertible from crossbody to shoulder to backpack. Where did that design choice originate from?
As a teenager living in Spain, I used to drive a Vespa, and I always wore a backpack. After I had kids, I found it very difficult to find backpacks that were stylish. I would see lots of cute purses, but none of them were backpacks. I would go to the store with friends and would describe to them how easily it would be to rearrange the hardware to make the purse into a backpack. My friends and family pushed me to pursue my idea. I drew my first design on a Delta napkin on a family trip to Disney World in 2011.
As a mother of three, do your needs as a busy parent factor into your design choices as well?
Yes, all the time. Every time I need a bag for a different occasion, I design it in my head and then I make it happen. Sometimes I must push myself to stop creating new designs.
What do you have planned next for Day’s Eye?
I have lots of ideas but nothing settled yet. Perhaps start a men’s line. My husband complains about his briefcase carry-on.
Where can our readers find your bags?
At www.dayseye.us. They can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. And at some local Holiday shows, such as the Holiday Boutique at the Overland Park Convention Center.
Day’s Eye
Kansas City Fashion Week Thursday Presentation
March 29 at 6:30-7:30 p.m.
The Grand Hall at Power and Light
1330 Baltimore Ave
Kansas City, MO 64105
