About
I read somewhere that personality traits of a creative person included getting bored easily. Through a need and desire to create constantly, whatever the medium, KARMME was born. So I am here now on this path, kind of to a destination unknown, but that’s the traveller in me, I am loving the ride and happy to take this path wherever it leads to. Thanks for coming along.
THE IDEA
The design of my bags came about when I needed to go out with my phone, keys and purse but didn’t have enough hands to hold it all. I had also had neck surgery and didn’t want to carry a bag on my shoulder any more. Simplicity and versatility of design was important so during the day KARMME clutches can be grabbed in the corner, tucked under your arm or popped in a larger tote bag, and at night just the bare essentials get put in and folded over for a more elegant clutch.
KARMME's story started with a gift to my sister. That feeling of gift giving continues, with each KARMME clutch having her own cotton dust bag, carefully tied and a hand written note to accompany her before she's wrapped and sent on her way. Whether a present for yourself or another it's important to KARMME that each clutch is received as a gift.
THE STORY
When I first started making the clutches, the colour of the leather kept taking my mind to women I had seen in the media, maybe it was skin tone or personality but I kept thinking of them. During the last process of construction of each bag, on the turning out, the unveiling, the end of my free thoughts, it felt like a child was born, and so my bags began to be named.
Mostly the names came to me as I created, stimulated by memories of sewing with my mum, the clothes and shoes she had in her wardrobe, colours, textures and personalities traits of women I admired or were reminded of.
So they became KARMME ladies, I love that they get referred to as ‘ladies’. This term has been lost a little in translation in the past couple of decades in my opinion. I feel it’s a compliment to be labelled a lady and I hope my KARMME ladies make their owners feel confident, elegant, gorgeous, classic, casual and as stylish as they want to be.
THE PATH
The nature of KARMME is bespoke, small quantity, locally created products. I am proud to design and produce in Australia. My suppliers and makers are an integral part in me providing beautifully hand made leather goods coupled with a high level of customer service for creations that loyal KARMME clients have come to love.
KARMME bags are created using premium Italian leather and KARMME’s signature dyed indigo linings. The range includes colours developed exclusively for KARMME. The leather chosen has body yet is still soft enough to give all KARMME bags a beautiful feel that gets better with age and just fits to your hand after a while.
This website highlights what KARMME is about, how the business came to be, and how it has evolved. The images show the texture, colour, application and design. The lineup of KARMME ladies will consist of a core range joined by intermittent seasonal designs. I am constantly inspired when buying supplies so there will always be new ladies appearing in my lineup.
“The choice to produce in Australia was an easy one. I want to make sure there is clarity every step of the process in terms of sustainability, waste reduction, ethical production and fair wages. I can’t imagine running a business any other way”
— Imby, founder & owner | KARMME