More Information
Shana Luther
Brooklyn, NY
shana@smlbags.com
347.277.2631
Summary
Handbag designer with fresh approach to design- Im drawn towards modern, clean design with the belief that materials are as important as the design itself. Working directly with domestic manufacturers on my independent label has only greatly increased my knowledge and skills within the industry and will only prove to be valuable within a new position. Im currently seeking freelance or a full time position to expand upon my design capabilities.
Skills
Extensive experience working one-on-one with manufacturers in product development and production
Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign and Microsoft Office proficient
Strong hand sketching skills
Ability to identify and work with current trends within the market
Strong knowledge of fabrications- leather, PVC, textiles, etc.
Professional Experience
Shana Luther Handbags: Head Designer/Owner
January 2012- Present
Developed and operates and independent, high end handbag brand
Works on every stage of the design and production process- souring, design, tech packs, marketing, wholesale and direct to consumer sales, website updates, photo editing
Works with two domestic manufacturers in development and production of products
I AM: Freelance Design/Material Sourcing
July/August 2013
Sourced various materials for a line of sustainable yoga bags and handbags
Nishuva, Inc: Freelance Design
June 2013
Executed design updates and tech packs for line of modern camera bags
Barr & Barr Handbags: Freelance Assistant Handbag Designer
June 2011
Assisted on high-end line of leather bags- duties included hand sketching, specs, tech packs, photo editing and line sheets
Gryson/Tribeca Design, LTD: Freelance Assistant Designer
April 2010-May 2011
Assisted on various line such as Gryson, Olivia Harris, Nanette Lepore, Ann Taylor Loft, Alex Toy and Seven for all Mankind
Conceptualizing new designs, hand sketching, specs, corrections from samples, creating/updating line sheets, researching current trends, mood boards
Setting up showroom and organizing for trade shows and market weeks
Maintaining sample room archive
Freelance Product Design/Construction of SLGs:
February 2011- April 2011
Designed and developed multi use wallet sample for private client
SML Bags: Designer and owner
2006-April 2011
Handmade handbag line consisting of various clutches and shoulder bags
Market research, sourcing materials, sketching, pattern drafting and prototyping of various bag styles, final design construction, small batch manufacturing, marketing and selling to boutiques within NY
Parsons-Meares, LTD: Buyer for Theatrical Costume Shop
2004-September 2010
Worked directly with costume designers and was responsible for sourcing and securing materials that are aligned with design and budget for various Broadway productions and films
Education
FIT- non credit continuing education courses in CAD
Pratt Institute- BFA in Fashion Design
References
Available upon request
