Bringing old Hollywood glamour and sophistication to a whole new generation of fashionable women, Philadelphia- based designer Glenda Gies has traveled around the world and back again to find one-of-a-kind vintage fabrics for her name-sake line of upscale handbags.

My inspiration began when traveling abroad. I fell in love with sophisticated European culture and fashion of London and Paris. While shopping on Portobello Road, I was struck by the workmanship and unique design of accessories from the 1940’s and 50’s . When I returned stateside, I spent endless hours researching vintage handbags and textiles. It was then that I was compelled to pursue my childhood dream of becoming a designer.

I based my business model on a principal that I learned from twenty years of retail experience – that providing a high level of exceptional service is vital to success.

I design my handbags, totes and accessories to be elegant and functional, yet whimsical. I want to provide women with the opportunity to have a piece of the past that blends perfectly with today’s fashions while not seeing their bag in every mall across America.

An instant conversation starter , a Glenda Gies bag evokes images of strolling along fifth avenue, walking through Central Park or making a grand entrance on the Red Carpet. They are available in such upscale boutiques as Timeless Treasures in Martha’s Vineyard, the Greenbriar Hotel in White Sulphur Springs , Lulu & me in Naperville, IL , The Four Seasons in Carlsbad , CA and Brentwood General in Santa Monica, CA . My vintage inspired handbags have also been featured in Vanity Fair, Allure, The New York Times , and US magazine , as well as on the “What’s Hot For Fall” segment on the TV show Extra and NBC’s Today Show.

My limited edition styles are hand cut to the customer’s exact specifications, allowing them to select the fabric , leather and even the inner lining. I search for the rarest  of fabrics in design , color, and texture . It’s a physically strenuous and challenging job , but every day is a new adventure and a treasure hunt . Who could ask for more ?