Tomorrow the country rejoices all things British, as we celebrate Buy British Day. The exciting occasion focuses on British-made products, with the aim of encouraging consumers to buy more.

Starting tomorrow, we’re welcoming a stylish line-up of British-created brands to our site, and will be catching up with each one over the next few days.

First up with have Mariya Dykalo, Creative Director of Aspinal of London. As an absolute British classic, we’re thrilled to learn more about how real British women inspire the beautiful designs.

 

Maryia, tell us more about your role at Aspinal of London.

I am part of the creative process from the outset. I oversee the designs from my first sketches to sample and then through to production. I love being involved so closely with my creative teams as I get to choose and make decisions on everything through to the small details; leathers, hardware and stitching. Watching my designs be sold to our customers and hearing their feedback is the most exciting part.

 

What shapes and inspires your designs?

Every product is designed to fit with a lifestyle and isn’t only striking, but practical too. When designing new additions to the collections or improving previous designs, I always take functionality into account as well as aesthetics.

I look to everyday people to inspire me – the need for practicality in everyday working life, but also the joy in owning something beautifully made. Our bags need to be functional otherwise they’ll never be used and I want them to be loved for a lifetime. I also get to push the boundaries with our products like introducing a juice pack into our best-selling Marylebone tote so that you can charge your tech on the go. I’m always thinking of what we can do that’s new and exciting for the brand.

Which British icon best represents your brand?

I design for working women of London. The British, classic elegance is something so desirable to me. I admire British women who have their own style and invest in their wellbeing and lifestyle. I want the women who purchase my bags to feel beautiful, but know my bags are practical and reliable.

 

What does working for a British brand mean to you?

 I love Aspinal. I love the British heritage that we represent and that’s what I try to incorporate into the designs. I want to give a modern edge to Aspinal of London, but also stay true to this iconic British brand.

 

What 5 iconic items/things sum up Britain to you?

Red Phone Box

The Royal Family

Richmond Park

The great British weather

Afternoon Tea

…all a bit eccentric and endearing at the same time.