Kim Dalzell

Who: Kim Dalzell, a forty-year-old former creative VP for brand agency FAME, now designer of kimdalzell, a line of Lucite handbags ($299) and belt buckles ($88) with an oh-so modern look that screams hip.

The Story: Dalzell was frustrated with the selection of accessories available in stores, so she did something about it. “I was always looking for something a little bit different that would stand out and couldn’t always find it,” she says. “So I decided to just do it and see what happens.” After just one year, her line is being sold in sixteen boutiques nationwide.

Inspiration: She finds inspiration for her designs in everything from vintage accessories to cookbooks, always updating the concepts with a modern shape or style. The Lucite, for example, is reminiscent of 1950s handbags. “I thought I’d do my version and make it more modern,” she says.

Motto: “Beautifying the world, one belt at a time!”

Next Up: Dalzell is currently working on jewelry and leather accessories to expand her brand. 

kimdalzell accessories are available locally at Alfred’s Grand Petit Magasin and at kimdalzell.com