Who is Anna?
I’m the designer/maker behind A Alicia Handmade Accessories, a range of hand-crafted textile based fashion accessories. I spend at least eight hours a day (usually longer) sewing or making pompoms!
Why does London inspire me?
For me the most inspiring thing about living in London is the fact that whatever you do, no matter how niche, you’ll manage to find other people who’ll recognise and appreciate it. This means that there are always opportunities and challenges, which keep my work fresh. The access to culture (living and historical), is another huge positive to living in London, and something I feel privileged to be involved in.
My Craft London work is…
My work is primarily about creating pieces which exploit the sculptural and textural possibilities of their materials. I’m always working to find a balance in accessories that are bold and striking but at the same time wearable and beautifully crafted.
The other focus for this collection has been on making my practice as ethical and sustainable as possible, so my pom-pom necklaces for instance are made from fairtrade organic cotton dyed with environmentally friendly dyes.
Why am I the one to watch?
My passion for making (and for running an ethical business) gives me an overwhelming drive that keeps me pushing forward to explore new designs, materials and possibilities. I love a challenge!
What does the future hold?
I’ve been completely blown-away by how much A Alicia Handmade Accessories has grown and developed in its first year of life, so I have high hopes for this next year!
I feel that craft, and ethical production, is becoming more widely valued and gaining renewed appreciation, and I consider A Alicia part of this positive movement.