Dana Hicks-Hungerford knew she wanted to draw attention and spark a conversation during the global debut of her new luxury handbag collection, YOU MAKE THE BAG. To do so, the forward-thinking entrepreneur secured a massive digital billboard in Times Square to spotlight the brand. She also hosted an innovative “Sidewalk Fashion Show” to kick off New York Fashion Week and send a message about the importance of knowing your self-worth.
Dressed in stylish threads and trash bags, each model strutted down Broadway toting hand-painted designs from the collection. According to Hicks-Hungerford, the vision behind the models wearing trash bags were to prove that “even in a trash bag, you can still make the bag.”
The bag collection was a beautiful blend of art and fashion. It is important to note that no two handbags were the same, as every bag is hand-painted by talented artists, ensuring a truly one-of-a-kind piece.
We were intrigued to learn that Hicks-Hungerford intentionally infused positivity and empowerment into her designs by creating bags that would complement her customers’ wardrobes and remind them of their inner strength.
“YOU MAKE THE BAG, the bag does not make you,” Hicks-Hungerford tells BrownStyle Magazine, adding each piece in the collection was carefully crafted with this message in mind. “They are made from stylish faux leather and are designed to be as practical as they are visually appealing to seamlessly fit into your wardrobe. Simply put, the bag shines when paired with your unique fashion sense!”
Since its inception, “YOU MAKE THE BAG.” has become synonymous with the essentials for the modern woman: a tailored jacket, quality jeans, and chic boots pair perfectly with her luxury handbags.
“We are focused on designing products that will enhance our customer’s lifestyle,” the actress and producer adds. “Our goal is to offer the ideal handbag— one that embodies luxury, style, versatility, and ultimately allows you to define the bag with any outfit and mood.”
Since soft launching in the DMV area, the brand’s handbags have been featured in BET+’s A Wesley Family Christmas and the TV series HUSH.
To learn more about the collection, visit YouMakeTheBag.com.