Adriana is the one woman machine behind this brand. Based in California, she comes from a wonderful mix of cultures (Brazilian, Italian, Polish) that absolutely provide her with the passion she demonstrates for making gorgeous totes, handbags and pouches. I have long been a fan, and luckily Adriana has dropped in for a chat today to tell us more.
Describe the work that you do? "I’m CEO, designer, photographer and model behind drika.b, a small independent business specialized in the making of limited edition handmade bags in a wide range of sizes and shapes, using a combination of bold fabrics and upholstery jute webbing."
Azure Antler Weekender Bag
Don't you just love the way she uses utilitarian jute to accent the gorgeous fabrics? This is exactly the style I adore.
What was the career/education path you took to get to this point? "I’m an Industrial design and Architecture graduate with a passion for sewing that started when I was a little girl. I still remember my grandpa taking me to fabric stores and buying me fabrics so, I could sew dresses for my dolls. After graduating, I put sewing on the side and began to work as a project manager in a construction company; I was also an interior design consultant on the side, until my husband was relocated to work in the US 10 years ago."
"During my first 2 years in this country I went back to school and studied English and French. The following 4 years, I worked in the corporate world as a fashion merchandiser and the year after as a language consultant for Google. It was while working for Google that I came across etsy and at the same time a dear friend gave me scraps of fabrics from her work and told me I should sew something with them. I combined what etsy had to offer with my love for sewing and created drika.b."
Enchino Blue Bird Pouch
Where do you get your inspirations? "It’s all about what catches “my eye”. It can come from a store window (love Anthropologie), magazines (Japanese Scandinavian especially) or from reading blogs such as decor8, OH Joy, Creature Comforts, regularly. Travelling also helps to get a different perspective on new trends."
Describe the creative process in designing and constructing a particular piece. "I sketch every single idea I have on paper first and, because if this, I have notebooks everywhere. After coming to a decision about a new design, I transfer it into a paper pattern in order to get the right proportion, and then I cut it into fabric, a very colourful fabric one because a white just won’t do. After that, I sew a rough version of the bag, hang it on a board for observation, take pictures of me wearing it, and adjust its proportions until it is just right. This process can take weeks. When I’m happy with the result, I cut the final pattern and start the production."
Are you ready to take a peak into Adriana's workspace? I could just LIVE in there, so organised, stylish and packed full of lovely things!
Would you share a few of your favourite artisans with us? "Kjoo's work shows a great way to mix colors and textures. I’m always inspired by her work. It’s so unique."
"Erin Tyner photography makes my mind wonder! The way she plays with the miniature figurines is awesome."
"In Dreams" Print
Where can we find your work? "You can find me on Etsy and Supermarket"
What/who are the things you love most in your life? "Besides my family and my dog Cierra, I love a pair of pearl earrings that belonged to my grandma. I’m obsessed with French macaroons (especially the ones from Ladurée) and have a passion for photography, swimming and jumping on my bed, especially when my husband is asleep."
Through the Forest in Teal Pouch
What would you do “in your wildest dreams”, if there were no restrictions? "Well, I live a very fulfilling life. I have a great husband, family and friends (including the one that corrected my bad grammar for this interview, thanks Monca), excellent health and have had the opportunity to travel to many countries and eat great food. But, what I dream about is being able to spend time with my nonno (grandpa in Italian) drinking wine, eating salami, cheese and bread. He passed away 2 years ago."
Flower Field Lily Basic Tote
What is your greatest professional achievement? "To be my own boss and do something I’m passionate about and also to have created a label that is well known by its quality and creativity."
What is new with you and your work? "I’m getting ready for my annual visit to Brazil to see my mom and grandma. I’m also working on my own website and new designs. Expect to be done with it and be ready to launch within the next year. I’m always sketching."
Do you have a motto for life? "“Love others as you love yourself” & “The purpose of design is to make the ordinary extraordinary”"
I so love those two sayings, what a wonderful basis on which to live a full and creative life! I am blown away by the skill, business savy and creativity she demonstrates in running all aspects of her business. What an inspiration!
Thank you Adriana for stopping by and letting us see into your wonderful world of drika.b!
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what a great little shop! i LOVE that blue bird pouch!!!
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