A few years ago
became a recognizable name on U.S. soil after her now-iconic "I Am Not a Plastic Bag" tote set off a buyer's frenzy—in addition to kick-starting the craze for more fashionable shopping totes—however there's more to the British designer than just canvas shoppers. Based out of London, Hindmarch runs a $32 million global luxury brand comprising 54 stores throughout the world.
Here, some other things you should know about the trendsetting bag lady:
1. Just today, Hindmarch was announced as the British Fashion Council's new non-executive fashion director, where she'll be a driving force in London Fashion Week programming as well as other design initiatives, Vogue UK reports.
2. Earlier this month Hindmarch was also one of 32 individuals to be enlisted by the UK government as an ambassador for overseas trade, a position she shares alongside fellow designer and friend Tamara Mellon of Jimmy Choo. Their responsibilities will include acting as liaisons between the British goverment and world leaders on various business priorities.
3. This fall, Hindmarch gave the Barbour raincoat, an iconic UK classic, a slighly citified update with four new styles, including one decked out with a fur collar and cuffs. Not unlike her famous tote, the coats sold out online within three hours, says the WSJ.
4. She's taking on men's items. Hindmarch, famous for her women's bags and accessories is developing a casual leather men's bag, expected to debut in February.
5. We thought we'd save the best morsel for last: Hindmarch designs in her sleep, often waking up with a new idea to jot down and address in the morning. "Your brain goes into freefall when you dream," she tells the WSJ. "It's guiding you toward all these ideas." Indeed, design comes that naturally to her—and clearly Hindmarch has found her calling.
