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In Behind the Brand we uncover the stories behind New England's brightest emerging brands and look ahead to what their future holds.
As fashion moves away from logo emblazoned "It" bags (and even now ubiquitous anti-"It" bags), brands like Boston's own Artemis Design Co. lure those seeking a unique way to tote around their belongings. Founded by South End resident Milicent Armstrong, the budding business transforms Turkish kilim rugs and ikat fabrics—both silk and velvet—from Uzbekistan into bags and shoes, resulting in one-of-a-kind accessories spotted on the shelves of New York-based retailer Steven Alan and Galatea Fine Jewelry, a Milton boutique owned by Armstrong's mother.
Currently studying interior design at Boston Architectural College, Armstrong has always practiced creative endeavors (sewing, painting, and drawing instantly come to mind), but it was on the floor of Galatea that her interest in textiles began. Combined with a passion for travel cemented during a semester-at-sea program, Armstrong began sourcing fabrics from carpet dealers to create her premium-leather trimmed collection, manufacturing her products right in Turkey.
The line focuses on classic bag shapes (weekenders, convertible duffel-style bags, wallets) and a cross between a loafer and smoking slipper for both men and women. This spring, Armstrong will launch new bright patterns for bags and a kilim espadrille, a more summery version of the classic ladies flat. In the future, she hopes to introduce Indian silks, African waxed cotton, and textiles from Peru and Morocco, coupled with the goal of expanding further into Los Angeles, San Francisco, the Southwestern region, and Japan, where she is currently available through Steven Alan.
· Artemis Design Co. [Official Site]