Bags are a major accessory, and we’re not talking about the canvas or plastic grocery totes that have become everyday items. On the international fashion scene, bags were big on fall and winter runways – and quite necessary, as both women and men need bags to store their belongings, from wallets and purses, phones, make-up, and even laptops and extra masks and sanitisers as some persons continue to transition from working at home to returning to the office.
The trends vary from small handbags or crossbody bags and large duffel bags to cosy textures and shapes. One local designer is aiming to set the creative blueprint for the season with her collection – Melissa Moses Design.
Designer Melissa Moses, who previously demonstrated her hand in completing challenges given to her on Mission Catwalk’s Season Six and SAINT International’s avant-garde competitions, said that she was inspired to venture in the direction of bags because she recognised there were not many Jamaicans creating the much-used accessory.
“This meant I was provided with the perfect opportunity to make and market my creations, bearing in mind that my bag collection can also rival international brands when it comes to quality and style,” Moses told Flair.
Melissa Moses Design seamlessly fuses classic silhouettes with modern sensibility defined by the choice of leatherette, canvas and unique drapery fabric. She also plans to explore other materials such as plastic and straw. A bag is as unique as one’s personality, and this season, whether your style is playful or practical, one of her designs will complete your outfit. A signature design of the collection is the zippered front and large pocket.
An evening out for drinks deserves a single hand strap that’s sleek and sexy. 
Traditional coin purses are getting revamped, now with zippers on the front so you can slip change in at any corner. 
Don’t toss the tassels. These are still trending. 
No weak links allowed, that’s what this unisex design reads. Instead of a chain strap, it has an adjustable nylon strap for functionality.
Moses, who is self-taught, shared, “One of my favourites, a red velvet fabric used to do one of my first creations – a medium-size handbag, when I decided to launch the collection, could also be considered a signature, one-of-a-kind design.”
The bags have recently been made available in-store and online at Bridjay’s Boutique. She has plans to expand her brand, which also includes elegant wear, having received positive feedback, both locally and internationally.
She shared that her inspirations continue to come from the satisfaction of customers who highlight her work to so many other things, including a good music playlist and the creations of other designers. Having been certified in fashion and design at the then HEART Trust/NTA Garmex Academy, she aspires for the début collection of bags to meet international standards and attract stylish businesswomen and men, as well as large retailers.
Melissa Moses handbag collection fuses fall and winter tones. 
Designers worldwide cannot get enough of the woven details trend and Melissa Moses did not leave it behind for her 2021-2022 line. 
There’s no need to carry more than one bag, choose the extra-large carrying tote that can fit a laptop, change of clothes for the gym and not feel like it’s weighing down your style. 
Mini to large duffel bags are particularly handy.
“The type of woman that carries a Melissa Moses bag should be someone who is trendy, confident, bold, and a person who is willing to make a fashion statement. My target market includes professionals and [celebrities],” she said.
“The bags I create come in various colours, designs and sizes; the compact, sleek look can go with any outfit, and most of my bags are comfortable or can be worn across the body, keeping your hands free, thus suitable for men, too,” Moses continued.
