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We’ve Got Green in the Bag

By: Pamela Pekerman, Bag & Style Expert and www.BagTrends.com Founder

With the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day approaching, Gorgeously Green gals like us finally have a smorgasbord of bag-a-licious designers that are not only helping us do well by mother nature, but also avoid looking “granola.”  Canopy Verde, designed by Linda Wong, is one such brand that understands most women will only shop green when the handbag also appeals to their inner bagista needs.  Below, Linda shares her thoughts on the green movement and her current spring 2010 collection.

Pamela Pekerman: What is your design aesthetic?
Linda Wong: Clean and modern with a touch of whimsy in the details. I particularly like Danish furniture for the clean lines and contemporary feel.

Pamela: How has your Chinese upbringing and culture influenced your design aesthetic?
Linda: I was the youngest of three in a traditional Chinese household and learned from an early age never to waste. The “waste-not” philosophy is definitely in my blood – I’m a big advocate of reusing and recycling as much as possible.

Pamela: Tell me about your nickname, “bag police”.
Linda: During my high school days in Taiwan, I would follow [people] to the cash register as they made their purchase and harass them with the question, “Do you really need that bag?” I don’t think I realized what a nuisance I was.  These days I try to be subtler in my approach…

Pamela: You choose to work with local Chinese materials and labor. How has that impacted your brand?
Linda: Given my roots, it was a very unique opportunity to be able to work with Chinese manufacturers and be a part of China’s growing eco-friendly market.  I not only wanted to work with a Chinese factory, but also to source all materials in China to reduce the transportation impact. It took a lot of time and energy to find local eco-friendly material and trims. China is the world’s largest production hub and being able to work with manufacturers to encourage more responsible business practices will hopefully have a greater, long-term impact.

Pamela: What does Canopy Verde have in store for us come Spring 2010?
Linda: Rose gold is the newest color for spring.  It looks fresh next to our organic cotton and bamboo blend fabric. There’s also the Pomelo clutch that has been very popular because of its slightly oversized shape.