Trendsetters at Work NYFW Edition: Edie Parker

So clutch! Get the NYFW scoop straight from the celeb-adored designer

By Vanessa McDonald, Lindsey Sirera Sep 11, 2015 6:28 PMTags
Edie Parker, TrendsettersJacqueline Lee/E!

Think New York Fashion Week is only about the clothes? Wrong! The accessories (along with the hair and  makeup, of course) are just as important as the designs coming down the runways this spring 2016 season, and no one understands that better than Brett Heyman.

As the fearless founder of Edie Parker, the iconic clutch designer knows exactly how to capture the fashion crowd's attention with her compelling designs. Since launching in 2012, she's transformed her line of vintage-inspired clutches and handbags into a permanent red carpet fixture, counting Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Kate Hudson and more as regular clients. And based off her NYFW presentation yesterday, Brett's designs just keep getting better.

Without further ado, read on to hear from the handbag designer herself.

Jacqueline Lee/E!

What was your first job in fashion?
I interned in the fashion department at Elle magazine the summer after my freshman year of college. I used to cut rolls of film for Gilles Bensimon or pack up clothes in the closet for Nina Garcia. They were both amazing to be around and so inspiring.

What was your first New York Fashion Week like?
The same as it is now—thrilling and exhausting.

When designing your line this season, what were you sources of inspiration?
I kept coming back to images of Yemanya, Goddess of the Ocean. That and pictures of metallic blue eye shadow. 

Do you have any rituals or superstitions you always follow the day of your presentation?
I'm always superstitious. It's exhausting how many times a day I have to knock on wood. 

When do you pick out your own outfit for the event? And what do you usually like to wear?
I start thinking about it a couple of days before. I usually wear something I have been saving and that works with a mid-heel.

Describe your upcoming collection in three words: Fresh, Whimsical, Aquatic.

Jacqueline Lee/E!

How do you pick music? Is there an artist/song you've always wanted to feature?
I listened to a lot of reggae while designing this collection. I'm obsessed with Matisyahu and actually tried to get him to come perform at the event. Sadly I couldn't afford him. 

How do you celebrate after the event?
Usually we just stay at the venue, drink more and eat.

Do you watch other designers' shows? If so, which ones will you see this year?
I always go see my friend's shows. I will see Libertine, Wes Gordon, Paul Andrew and Jennifer Fisher among others.

What was your favorite collection that you've ever shown at fashion week?
This is only our third season showing and I get more confident in the collection each time. 

What fashion-week essentials are always in your bag with you?
Visine, Purell, tissues, Baume de Rose from By Terry, black eyeliner, Altoids.

Jacqueline Lee/E!

Finish the sentences below:
Today for lunch I had… avocado rolls and edamame.
My usual Starbucks order is… double espresso with Brazil nut milk. But not from Starbucks. I use my Nespresso machine pretty exclusively.
The snack I always have on-hand is…mixed roasted and salted nuts.
My favorite place to visit is… MOMA.
My favorite accessory is… my ‘ball and chain' bracelet my husband bought me on our first anniversary.
My favorite Instagram account is… @ideabooksltd.

Jacqueline Lee/E!