Meet Annie Diamantidis | Designer & Founder of Annie Handbags and Accessories

We had the good fortune of connecting with Annie Diamantidis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Annie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
As the designer of Annie Handbags, my thought process behind starting my own business revolves around several key points:

1. Creating one-of-a-kind pieces: I wanted to offer unique handbags that stand out from the crowd, reflecting individuality and personal style.
2. Giving back to charities: It’s important for me to support causes that are close to my heart. Through Annie Handbags, I aim to contribute to charitable organizations, making a positive impact on the community.
3. Vision of inspiring women: My vision was to develop a collection that goes beyond just fashion. I wanted to create handbags that serve as a form of self-expression, allowing women to embrace their individualism, reinvent themselves, and share their stories through their accessories. Each piece in the collection is crafted with this vision in mind, empowering women to express themselves confidently.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Using the most luxurious materials on my handcrafted accessories, I’ve created unique and one-of-a-kind designs that seamlessly transition from the office to the dance floor. My carefully curated collection features exotic crocodile, python, ostrich, and stingray, all showcased in striking colors with finishing touches of genuine 14k gold hardware.

Responding to the growing demand for luxury accessories, I’ve incorporated my most sought-after leather collection with 14GP hardware, ensuring each piece exudes elegance and sophistication. Every design I create fuses femininity and contemporary style with unexpected hues, resulting in legacy pieces that can be cherished and passed down for generations to come.

As a handbag designer, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. From sourcing high-quality materials to staying ahead of ever-changing fashion trends, each day presents new obstacles to overcome. Balancing creativity with practicality, navigating production timelines, and ensuring every design meets my standards of excellence requires constant dedication and perseverance. Yet, it’s these challenges that fuel my passion and drive for creating timeless, luxurious accessories that inspire confidence and elevate personal style.

Since launching my namesake collection of luxury handbags, I’ve quickly gained global recognition. I’ve been labeled as the “Best Designer of 2023” by Gulf Shore Magazine, recognized as a “Chicago Made, Power Designer” by Michigan Avenue Magazine, hailed as a “Trend to Remember” by Fashion TV, and named one of the most influential Chicago residents by Haute Living Magazine. In 2023, GulfShore Life Magazine also honored Annie Handbags® as “The Best of Style” and recognized me as a “Designer to Know” in their Best Of issue, among other accolades.

ANNIE® products are centered around versatility, with a core component of pieces that are multi-functional and can instantly upgrade your wardrobe while elevating your mood. Whether it’s a sleek tote that effortlessly transitions from day to night or a chic clutch that adds a touch of glamour to any outfit, our designs are crafted to enhance your style with ease. Plus, they’re easy to travel with, ensuring you stay polished and prepared wherever you go.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Brunch at The Ivy, luxury shopping on Rodeo Drive, tea at The Peninsula, and dinner at Spago.

Day 2: Breakfast at Urth Caffé, shopping on Melrose Avenue, lunch at Nobu Malibu, and dinner at Providence.

Day 3: Breakfast at Bottega Louie, visit The Broad Museum, lunch at The Grove, stroll along Venice Beach, and dinner at Catch LA.

Day 4: Brunch at Gjusta, explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard, lunch at Sugarfish, relax at Shutters on the Beach, and dinner at Nobu Los Angeles.

Day 5: Breakfast at Sqirl, explore the Arts District, lunch at Perch, visit The Getty Center, and dinner at Maude.

Day 6: Breakfast at République, shopping at Westfield Century City, lunch at The Belvedere, spa treatment at The Beverly Hills Hotel, and dinner at Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air.

Day 7: Brunch at The Polo Lounge, visit Greystone Mansion, shopping at The Grove or Beverly Center, and dinner at Nobu West Hollywood.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My success story as a handbag designer is deeply intertwined with the concept of women supporting women. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to be inspired, mentored, and collaborated with many incredible women who have played pivotal roles in my journey.

First and foremost, my mom has been a guiding light. She instilled in me the belief that to succeed in anything, one must wholeheartedly dedicate themselves and give their best effort. Her wisdom and unwavering support have been invaluable as I navigated the challenges and triumphs of the fashion industry.

Additionally, my dedicated employees have been essential contributors to the success of my company. Their hard work, dedication, and passion for our shared vision have been instrumental in bringing my designs to life and establishing Annie Handbags as a respected brand in the industry. Without their commitment and talent, the journey would have been far more challenging, if not impossible.

I firmly believe that the support and collaboration among women have been fundamental to my achievements as a handbag designer. From mentors to colleagues, each woman I’ve encountered along the way has left an indelible mark on my journey, reminding me of the power of unity, determination, and mutual support in reaching our goals.

Website: www.anniebags.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anniediamantidis/

Linkedin: Annie Handbags and Jewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anniehandbags/