Fashion Design Blog

Submitted by The Fashion Informer Blog

Since launching her eponymous handbag and footwear line in 2006, Joy Gryson’s accessories have become a fast favorite among fashion cognoscenti and celebs such as Michelle Williams and Jessica Biel.

The Korean-born, New York-based designer - who honed her chops at Coach, Calvin Klein and Marc Jacobs before going solo - recently debuted a limited-edition line of Gryson for Target handbags, which will be in-store through June 21st.

The Fashion Informer caught up with the FIT-educated Gryson earlier this month to get the scoop on her favorite Web sites, her vacation spot of choice and the contents of her own purse.

So, Joy…
 

What is your favorite springtime activity?
Going down to Avalon, New Jersey on the weekends - we have a beach house there - and we love going down there with our daughter and friends! It’s completely relaxing - and the total opposite of being in the city.

Any summer vacation plans yet?
Our beach house, and possibly going to Nantucket. Peter (my husband) and I got engaged there.


What did you have for lunch today?
Eggplant Parmigiana with spaghetti. I love food, specifically anything Italian or Asian!  


What are the Web sites you read most often, and why?
Honestly, I am on the computer more than I like to be, so I try to give my eyes a break and stay off it when humanly possible.  But I do read WWD.com and Style.com.
 
Please look up from your computer and describe what you see when you look around.
Lots of magazine tearsheets, sketches and flowers - and the most perfect drawings done by my 5-year-old daughter, Olivia.

What is it about handbag design that you love?
I love the utilitarian aspect of handbags - that they must serve a function yet also need to look beautiful.  I love playing with the combination of leathers, materials and hardware. I love finding and using the most sumptuous leathers; it’s definitely a tactile thing.  


If you could have one talent that you don’t possess, what would you choose?
Playing a musical instrument - possibly the guitar.


Who is your favorite actor/actress of all time, and why?
I don’t have just one; there are too many to name.
 
What is your favorite mode of communication?
Text messaging - it’s instant - and it comes from only friends and family.

When was the last time you got a pedicure, and what color did you choose?
Last weekend - Chanel Blanc Ceramic. It’s a little early for white, but I am really anxious for Spring weather! 


Since you’re a handbag designer, please tell me what items can typically be found in your own bag.
Iphone, sketch book, pouch wallet, sunglasses, mirror, tooth floss, Smythson agenda, Rosebud Salve lip balm, Handi Wipes.

Brunch:  pro or con?
ALWAYS a pro - I love brunch.

Do you have any superstitions?
Definitely. Don’t walk under ladders, and I have never broken a mirror (keeping my fingers crossed)!
 
What makes you nervous?
Speaking in public.


When are  you happiest?
When I am with my husband and daughter - just laughing and being completely ridiculous and silly.

Stay tuned next week for Random Questions For Anna Sheffield.
v