Futuristic Fashion (The Spotlight Bag by designer Carlene Junjulas)

DRIES PRESTON handbags are a true testament to fine craftsmanship, integrity of design, and an understanding of a woman's need for function. The DRIES PRESTON collection is bold with a fashion forward edge and attention to detail.

Carlene Junjulas

Carlene Junjulas, designer, approaches handbag design from a clean, bold, innovative point of view. After attaining a fashion design degree in New York, Carlene spent years learning the business of design working in the fashion industry. Since 2002 she has worked for Columbia Sportswear, Under Armour, Joe Boxer and intimate apparel lines forNeiman Marcus. In 2010 Carlene pooled her talents to launch her own line 'DRIES PRESTON' (meaning 'Warrior of Love'). Her youthful essence combined with her knowledge of what women want allowed Carlene to create a line that is both boldly feminine and subtly seductive.

Carlene lives in New York and the handbags are made in New York's garment district where she oversees the development of her creations, and is a true believer that DRIES PRESTON handbags are captured with skilled design, glamorous color choices and luxurious leathers all complimenting the strongly fierce yet stunningly feminine woman. After all "Every woman needs clutches. In her fashion loving opinion, they are essential".!!...It literally GLOWS!! It's awesome for a night out.

Do you plan to do a variety of handbags that light up or is it just a clutch?

Spotlight Bag

The "GRAND SPOTLIGHT" is up and coming. It's a larger clutch for the girl who carries everything in her bag! In essence, DRIES PRESTON is glamorously modern and cutting edge, so make sure to follow me on my social media websites to keep up with my creative plans for 2011.

What inspired you to design the light up bag?

Having an understanding of a woman's need for function! The MINI SPOTLIGHT clutch easily locates your essentials and will finally put an end to fumbling in the dark for your ID, keys, or lip-gloss!

What is your favorite fashion accessory?

My must-haves are: Sunglasses, Scarves and Clutches - not necessarily in that order.

Are you motivated by any other designers?

Spotlight Bag

There are so many amazing designers in the industry. I especially find motovation in the ones that have reputations which enables them to be trend-setters.

Growing up did you always envision your self as a designer?

Yes. When I'm engaged in a meaningful and creative way I feel energized, and it truly brings happiness. I love having the reward of bringing my designs from conception to completion while satisfying a consumers desire.

Do you currently have any celebrity clients?

Not yet, but hopefully in the near future! I'd love to see, Rihanna, Katy Perry, Eva Longoria, Leighton Meester, Taylor Swift, Jennifer Hudson, Amber Rose and Bai Ling wearing DRIES PRESTON. There's something so bold about adding an electric splash of color to your arm! 

Do you have plans to mass produce this product?

Spotlight Bag

As of now I produce small production runs and it works. I always think big and keep strong at my vision. 

What advise would you give to some one breaking into the fashion industry?

Patience. The fashion industry is so over-saturated, you have to believe in your vision and product and just stay true to it. It takes time to develop a brand and find the right factories. But with hard work, and perseverance it all becomes worth it.

What does the future hold for Dries Preston?To expand the line while continuing to cater to the strongly fierce yet stunningly feminine woman and collaborations with amazingly talented people!

So we will follow her on this journey of the spotlight bag and see where she lands!!! Get your spotlight bag today.... http://www.driespreston.com/