Designer resists lure of the big stores
From department store buyers to magazine editors and famous bloggers, women around the globe are desperate to get their hands on Poppy Lissiman's statement clutches.
Labelled a "cult-favourite clutch" by the team at Teen Vogue America, Lissiman's colourful creations have taken off in a way she never imagined possible.
"I wasn't expecting them to do as well as they did," the Fremantle designer said.
While most designers are desperate to have their wares stocked at big-name retailers, the 26-year-old turned down offers from a number of department store buyers on a recent trip to New York Fashion Week.
"It was very difficult saying no because prior to doing accessories I spent my entire career doing apparel trying to get even just a sidewards glance from some of these retailers," Lissiman said.
"The notion of no longer wholesaling and only selling online was an idea someone who I respect in the fashion world very much suggested to me last year.
"Basically it means I am the only one who you can purchase my products from, I control the pricing and margins and as a result I can charge a more competitive price and pass those savings on to my customers."
A savvy social media expert with 24,000 Instagram followers to her name, Lissiman has harnessed the power of online platforms to spread the word about her accessories-oriented label.
In addition to extensive online coverage, Lissiman believes the popularity of her clutches comes down to their affordable pricing and vegan-friendly materials.
