Karina Hesketh

  Karina Hesketh...a true inspiration as to what a designer should be about. 

Based in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, but being sold all around the globe, Karina is an experienced and talented bag maker, that creates unique, beautiful pieces taking inspiration from 1930's vintage frames.

We know how important exclusivity is to Clasp, and that is one thing that drew us massively to Karina.  She is known for never using a certain pattern, more than ten times, and for ensuring each piece is beautifully unique.  Best of all, she doesn't scrimp on quality.  Fine leather interiors, with a thicker hide, ensure a sturdy bag, which is still beautifully soft.  And with each bag being decorated by gorgeous items from across the world, some even dating back to 1910, we can ensure an individual, inspirational piece of work, to compliment any outfit.

Karina started her fashion career at a very young age, even spending time working on theatrical fashion.  This may be why she is gifted to give each of her pieces, the beautiful flair that makes them stand out.  Her talent and attention to detail, then led her to begin her own company, "Arrivee Peau". Creating beautiful leather and silk clothing, she created a stunning range of gorgeously constructed clothing, with one piece even being purchased by Princess Caroline, from a shop in Monaco!

With inspiration from Russian artists, Marlene Deitrich and Elsa Schiaparelli, you are sure to own a piece that captures a true love of fashion. 

And why not own a wonderful piece of fashion, designed by the same woman who created garments for both Annie Lennox and Aretha Franklin!

Karina Hesketh as part of Clasp Clothing.

August 2011!

www.facebook.com/claspclothing

http://www.claspclothing.co.uk/

Budding Designers

During the time spent setting up Clasp Clothing, one of the main things that has stood out to me massively, was how amazing peoples passion for their craft really is!  When I graduated from University, there were so many people around me, who seemed content with sitting back and waiting for great things to happen, but never having the drive to achieve it themselves.

But over the last few months I really have met some wonderfully inspiring people.  Fresh, new designers, who work in areas that are only vaguely related to their dreams of fashion, but spend all of their spare time creating pieces of art to showcase to the world.  Now don't get me wrong, having a well known designer piece, is an incredible feeling.  You love the label, the fabric, the ideology of wearing something almost exclusive.  And that is truly where Clasp Clothing, adds a new dimension. 

If a new designer has made something, you know it is going to be the best, because they're making a first impression, that they need to last!  Almost like a first date...If a new designer has made something, you know it is going to be individual and creative, because of course they're all brimming with that student eccentricity.  I love the passion that they put into every design that gets sent my way.  And I know that you'll feel the same way once you see them! 

Then of course you have the established designer!  Offering pearls of wisdom, and creating pieces that have been created, reworked, revamped and created all over again.  They know how to dress women to create the classic glamour that so many of us aspire to.  They know how to drape fabric in such a way, that a dress can look effortless, yet captivating.

All of the designers that Clasp Clothing are working with, are diverse.  All offering something unique and beautiful, and all offering exclusivity and innovation. 

Envision what you want to be, and let us help you create someone polished, stylish, and overall fabulous!

Clasp Clothing.  It's all in the detailing...

And don't forget to add our facebook page, at www.facebook.com/claspclothing

York's Fashion and Gift Fair and New Designers!

So many exciting things since the last post...I think maybe a more frequent blog is now needed!

The first big news...I've been in touch with the fantastic Maria Moderna, and they are the newest designer to sign up with Clasp Clothing.  The new range is being put together, and has a gorgeous variation of beautiful things for you to see!  Check out their Facebook Page, for an idea of what they already create, and then keep an eye out for some illustrations of their gorgeous pieces coming soon! 

http://en-gb.facebook.com/maria.moderna

We also signed up an exciting designer, Elephtheria, who have some gorgeous unique pieces being put together for Clasp http://www.elephtheria.co.uk/index.php

We have 3 gorgeous dresses coming from them, one in particular that I am very, very excited about!

Don't forget that every single thing you see on Clasp Clothing, is exclusive.  You won't find anything like it anywhere else, so if you're a fan of the designers, sign up for the newsletter so you can find out what's available.


So it's been a very busy few weeks, dotting a lot of i's and crossing a lot of t's!  So this weekend, I was desperately looking forward to a lazy weekend in York, after visiting the Fashion and Gift Fair.  And it absolutely was, but took a little bit of effort along the way!

The fair was held in York's Guild Hall, which was just stunning.  A really gorgeous venue for a fair, and just off from the Main Square.  In the directions I was given, I was told to park at Marygate Carpark, and then have a short stroll through the park to get to the Hall.  Well...this is wonderful in theory, but not so much when the park doesn't open until 10am.  Horrendous times walking through York in the rain carrying 2 suitcases and a laptop.  Which takes us to my outfit....not well thought through at all!  For some reason, I naturally expected the British weather to be lovely and sunny...obviously.  So I went for all black and wore...hareem trousers, cami and shrug, and sandals.  So first of all the rain, and then sitting in the Guild Hall!  A stone building...with no heating, so setting up was fun!

     But whining aside...I met some truly fantastic people!  I was set up to the loveliest lady,  who was telling people about their aura', and selling bottles of a kind of energy to set your mood levels right.  She asked me a few questions, and got me to pick a colour that I related to to analyse my mood...turns out I'm busy in the head! 

The customers coming in, were really receptive too, which was really heartening!  A lot of questions asked about the products, the site and the designers.  We had so much interest in the Womankind Charity Bracelets also, so will be adding more to that collection very soon!

If you want to purchase yours just send me a message.  It's only £10, and you can do your bit for a fantastic charity, which is doing it's bit for women across the world.

After a pretty awesome, yet busy day, I crawled back a beautiful hotel, Burythorpe House.  I've stayed there before, and always book the same suite, so couldn't wait to get there...and couldn't believe that when I got there, they offered me an upgrade! Happy is an understatement, as I got snug in a king size bed, in a huge room with en suite, after spending an evening in the sauna and spa.  And then finally, after a long, and glorious sleep...woke up to a three course breakfast!  Anyone who is planning a trip to York...make sure you stay there!  It's exceptional.  To me, service is incredibly important, so having the staff bring me extra towels in case I was cold after the sauna, or giving me a larger room as a thanks for booking in, was totally the icing on the cake! 

So we can definitely class that this weekend was succesful!  I spent a relaxing Saturday, handing out leaflets and shopping in the rain.  After relaxing with a croissant, I found such a lovely shop selling the cutest things to decorate your house with.  Pictures, wind chimes, dream catchers, candelabras, and all in really romantic styles and with cute little heart everywhere. 

In this shop, I found the most perfect frame, with a phrase in the middle.  It's a phrase, very similar to what a lot of people have said to me recently, and something that really does keep your focus head on!

"DREAMS.  Follow your heart and your dreams will come true..."

Have a lovely week, and please share your comments and thoughts on Clasp Clothing so far!  Had some fanstastic visits online, from people all over the world, so welcome everyone and stay tuned for a whole lot more from Clasp Clothing!

Makers Market

Relaxing back after a wonderful Sunday! 

After speaking to a lady recently, about exhibiting Clasp Clothing at an upcoming fair, I decided to pop by today to check out the other stalls, and see how much room I will actually have!  And I have to admit, I felt a bit intimidated!  The stalls were gorgeously presented, and the people were just so, so friendly!

Definitely need to do a couple of mentions, for some stunning companies that I saw.

Surf and Silver Sea Glass Jewellery!
This amazing shop has jewellery made from sea glass, all found on the local beaches in the North East.  The owner showed me some amazing pieces, with just captivating colours.  And made so much better that if you held it against the light, all of these different colours showed through.  I love how unique every piece is, and it doesn't seem like just jewellery, but real timeless works of art.  I most definitely will be buying one of their necklaces soon, and will be sure to upload some pics.  Check out her facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Surf-Silver-Sea-Glass-Jewellery/3186179352877

Little Town Bakery
Little Town Bakery, is owned by a fantastic lady called, Shona Morland.  She creates amazing, cakes and is so ridiculously generous.  I recently held a fundraiser for a family friend, who suffered from Cancer.  Shona travelled through to my house to deliver a gorgeous basket for me to raffle.  It was wonderful, and really touching that she would make such an effort to help us.  And back to her business!!  I have so far eaten, a delicious chocolate cup cake with butter cream icing, and strawberry cheesecake cupcakes!  Yes, Strawberry Cheescake!!  Delightful is the best word for it, so if you're based in the North East, and looking for a birthday cake, cupcakes etc, check her out!:
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/littletownbakery

There is another lady who does amazing bath products, but I can't for the life of me, find her company name!  But at the next fair, I'll be buying some berry soap!  And I'll pass on her details then.

I truly can't wait to get more involved in this fair, and bring Clasp Clothing to it.  So look out for some pictures of the next fair, and anyone who is local...try and pop by to one.  They're very diverse and a really fun day out!

All Coming Together!

Wow, what a busy couple of months!  Apologies for the absolute lack in updating the blog, but from now on, it should be all systems go.

The last couple months have been spent  meeting so many lovely people, and getting so many new ideas for Clasp.  And of course, bringing the website together!: www.claspclothing.co.uk 

The company who are working on my site, certainly need a mention, for the amazing patience that they have had working with me!  I'm not the easiest person to be fair, and changed my mind on designs, colours etc constantly...But things have become finalised, so the site will be up and ready for viewing oh so soon!  So yeah, www.sourcecodedesign.co.uk - definitely worth checking out! 

The upcoming month, is all about taking Clasp Clothing out, to show people what we have to offer.  And on the 5th June, we're attending a market to showcase some stunning accessories!  It's at the Seaburn Centre, but do message me for further details!

Then on the 10th June, we're in York at a fantastic fashion fair!  By then, we should have the site live, and of course showcase more of the wonderful accesories, that will soon be featuring on the site.

Please, please let me know what you think so far!  There is so much more to come, and finally I'll be able to show the much asked about clothing! 

Don't forget to check out the Facebook page for updates at: www.facebook.com/claspclothing

And the twitter: www.twitter.com/claspclothing

And the fun thing is....all of these items are now available to purchase.  In the UK and abroad!  Send us a message to enquire about getting your hands on some Clasp!



Syndey Simpson and SOUK!

Wow, it's been a while, but unfortunatly a horrific cold got the better of me!  But I'm back on track, and have bundles to show.

First of all, after visiting the SOUK event I have to recommend this wonderful company, Green Therapy.  It's a company offering hand made, organic skincare, and the prices were crazy cheap.  The lady who was running the stall, was so professional when letting me try out the products.  No dunking your fingers in the tub, but using a cute lil spatula.  I liked that!  So check it out, http://www.greentherapy.uk.com/   I tried the hand cream, and it was delicious!

I also had a good chat with the organiser, Samantha Agnew, and then spent a good half hour viewing her jewellery site.  Exceptional!! http://www.facebook.com/claspclothing#!/SamanthaAgnewJewellery  She was so helpful on the day, and she's got another fair booked up soon, which I'll hopefully be showcasing at!


NOW!  Sydney Simpson!  I've been meaning to put some previews up of the stock she sent through for Clasp, and finally have some previews.  I can't wait to get these up for sale, cause I know people will love them. 

When Sydney asked me what I wanted, one thing I specified was some Rose Gold jewellery.  My theory is, Gold is glamorous (or tacky if done wrong!), Silver is stylish....and Rose Gold is for the girl who knows her jewellery, and wants to stand out.  Check out these gorgeous items,

"Florence" necklace on a 18'' chain.  

"Secret Key" earrings

I adore those earrings...and pretty tempted to keep them for myself...but then I realised that if I kept doing that, there wouldn't be much left for the site.  She did some amazing bracelets for Clasp as well.  Both gorgeous, and both so, so different.  Few different colours available as well, so let me know what you like, and just let us know if you want something a bit different!

"Marilyn" Bracelet

"Eccentricity" Bracelet

The second one is my absolute favourite.  The colours, are just exceptional, and the pieces are so unique and random!  I love it, and again, I'm staying strong.  So if you like it, let me know and I'll keep it aside for you before they go on sale next month!


I've loved working with Sydney so much these last few months, and fortunately, we now have something new and exciting coming up!  I've been in talks with a wonderful company, Womankind, and from next month, Clasp Clothing, will be selling some gorgeous bracelets inspired by this amazing company.  A donation will be made from each sale, directly to the charity, so you can look gorgeous, and do your bit to help women all over the world!

That's all for now, but the next designer will be revealed next week!

Photo shoots and Fashion Shows!

Hey everyone,

Thank you again for checking out the blog, and thanks to the lovely people who have been so supportive on the facebook page too!

It's been a great week, as a gorgeous order of bags came through on Tuesday, from the fantastic Alice Cahill of  "Alice's Boutique".  Now I started with a very small selection, so I need you all to tell me what you think.

Alice makes everything herself, and uses some absolutely stunning material, which I just love.  Check out this brocade print...

I don't even think this picture does it justice, but the detailing on it...is truly fabulous.  She did some beautiful clutches, that are so right to give an outfit, a bit of wow!

Then there was this black and silver version.  The fabric has such a luxurious feel to it, that it's impossible not to just fall in love with it, and it's most certainly a bag that can be dressed up, or down!  Now I'm showing you a picture of the purse...but again she did some clutch bags as well.

I can't wait to have these photographed for the site.  Hopefully we can capture the texture of the material, which is the real beauty of it.

This week was also the very first, Clasp Clothing photo shoot, with a ridiculously talented photographer, called Keith Adams.  Keith is a local man from the North East, who does some exceptional shoots, and I was so, so excited to work with him!  I'll be compiling the look book for Clasp Clothing, very soon, so will hopefully have plenty to show you! 

Was so much fun during the shoot, and I even managed to sneak a few of Hatastic's designs into some pictures.  The "Black Swan" inspired fascinator, complimented a black vest and beige harem trousers wonderfully!

And finally, I really hope to see some of you at the SOUK Fashion Bazaar, this Saturday!  It's very last minute for me, but I spoke to the organiser, Samantha Agnew, and she's just so helpful!  I won't be exhibiting, but will be there meeting people, and handing out some fliers for Clasp.  Good luck to all the people who are exhibiting however, and I'll definitely be chatting to as many of you as possible!

Speak soon, and thanks again.

Nicky