Award winning Jasmine Gilhooly 23, is Founder of J D’Cruz, a bespoke handbag company. In 2013, Jasmine’s hand-printed leather bags became a fashion ‘must have’ and were dubbed ‘British Brand of the week’ by the Clothes Show Live as well as catching the eye of London Fashion Week.
We had a chat with Jas to find out more about the business she chose over a prestigious job opportunity with Jimmy Choo!
How did the concept for J D’Cruz Bags come about?
The J’Dcruz hand bag was first born back in 2012. It was whilst I was still studying at Birmingham City University. I found myself having a passion towards both leather as a material to work with and gritty surfaces and architecture as a surface.
What is the general process you go through to hand-make a bag?
My degree is in printed textiles, so the process obviously begins with pen to paper. Next I trial the materials together and then fall in love with the outcome.
Where do you draw inspiration from to design and create the bags?
Urban surfaces and outdoors. I also travel a lot and am particularly drawn to floor and wall patterns.
What has the experience of running your own business been like so far?
In truth, it is extremely exciting, but also stressful! I have just started renting my own space that I have converted into an art studio – this is very fun!
What shopping experience are you hoping to create for your customers in your studio space?
I will have four rooms to play with, so my aim is to have an office, a storeroom, a studio space and a show room. My show room will be the shopping experience with a luxurious and boutique feel. Customers will be encouraged to book an appointment as I won’t be open to shop on a day-to-day basis.
“my aim is to have an office, a storeroom, a studio space and a show room. My show room will be the shopping experience with a luxurious and boutique feel. “
Previously you won a ‘business travel award’ allowing you to go abroad for research, what were three things you learnt?
1. Be a sponge – there are people all over the world who have lots of knowledge, so soak it up!
2. Have fun – you need to enjoy what you do.
3. Be available – if you make time there is no reason why things can’t happen – follow your heart.
What is your ultimate business goal for 2014?
To be rich and famous! Ha ha. No seriously, my goal for 2014 is to get a successful studio up and running and broaden my brand awareness. I aim to have a few more magazine publications and a few more stock-ists.
What advice can you give to a Skool Girl?
Make the most of your education. Sometimes you think that things don’t matter (well I did) but now I believe that everything can be useful. Also, remember to enjoy yourself and have fun- this is what life’s about. As for your work life; if you love what you do, then technically you will never work a day in your life!
Get in touch with Jas:
Website: www.jdcruz.co.uk
Twitter: @JasmineGilhooly
Fb: jdcruzbags
IG: jdcruzbags
