Totes Amazing

London-based designer Anna Walker is fast gaining a cult following thanks to her range of sleek, personalised bags and accessories

What’s your earliest design memory?

When I was little I used to try to make high heels out of my brothers’ wooden building blocks. Not the most practical footwear, but I’m still a big fan of a chunky heel.

What gave you the push to start up Anna Walker London?

It’s grown organically, which is quite amazing to look back on. Originally I made a bag for myself because I couldn’t find anything out there that I really loved; now I’m getting orders from all over the world.

What inspires your designs?

I look to existing, humble products for inspiration such as the canvas tote or rolling tobacco packaging, but by crafting them in leather they become luxury versions of themselves. I want to create beautifully proportioned pieces that are attainable and timeless.

You’re in the middle of a studio refit – can you tell us what your work set-up is like?

I’m currently working from my little flat in Greenwich. I have to move the living room furniture to make space to cut out the leather!

Do you have a big team working for you?

I work with a machinist based in South London and two leather workshops in East London. I also make regular trips to a rather magical book bindery in Clerkenwell where I get my products monogrammed.

What are the rules when it comes to styling statement accessories?  

I don’t know if there are any real hard and fast rules but personally I think that the more rings on your fingers, the better. I love contrasting the clean lines of the Shopper with layered, mixed metal jewellery.

What’s your most prized accessory?

My younger brother made my sister and I the most amazing cast silver rings for Christmas last year. They're gorgeous; I wear mine with a huge amount of pride.

What’s the last thing you saw that made you say ‘wow’?

My new studio. It’s across the river from where I live and it’s a real hidden gem

What’s new for A/W 14?

The most exciting thing for me will be the launch of my website, it will be a real milestone moment. Plus, I will be departing from my all black colour palette and introducing a couple of new shapes and colours to my existing collection.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

It sounds cheesy but having happy customers is so rewarding, more so than I ever realised it would be.