Bristol-based handbag designer Jennifer Hamley – who two years ago went from being jobless to landing a major international fashion accolade – has again been selected as a finalist in the awards.
The 2017 Independent Handbag Designer Awards are staged next week in New York and will be attended by more than 400 members of the global fashion community. 
In 2015 Jennifer, pictured, came home with two titles, including the ‘Fan’s Favourite’, despite having only just launched her Jennifer Hamley, England brand while jobless and on a scheme that helps the unemployed set up their own business.
Jennifer and her innovative convertible leather backpack, designed for modern working women, is one of five finalists in the #GirlBoss Cutting Edge Bag category sponsored by American fashion retailer Nasty Gal.
Jennifer said: “I’m over the moon to be in the finals again. Being recognised by an esteemed panel of industry executives is a great honour for myself and recognises my designs and vision.
Jennifer started work on her brand in late 2014 when she found herself between jobs and looking for work. Receiving support for her idea from the Job Centre’s New Enterprise Allowance programme, which is delivered in Bristol by BRAVE Enterprise, she quickly started gaining recognition for her stylish and practical designs.
“At the time I couldn’t believe that I’d gone from unemployed to winning two international fashion awards in less than a year,” she said. “This second nomination is confirmation to myself that I’m on the right path. I love what I’m doing, my life is so different now.” 
This year’s awards will provide opportunities to collaborate with the Nasty Gal brand and to be featured in Neiman Marcus, the American luxury department store. Jennifer’s design, pictured, will also be featured in the US edition of inStyle magazine.
Jennifer says the inspiration for her creations comes from the demands of the modern independent woman. Each bag is designed to make a statement, and be useful at the same time. They are becoming hugely popular with professional businesswomen – from entrepreneurs to executives to artists alike.
Jennifer added: “My biggest mission, and that of our brand, is to empower women worldwide.
“Listening to the feedback from our customers and supporters lets us know that we are on the right track. We want our bags to be held as symbols of female confidence, visibility and success; and we are already seeing the results.”
Aside from designing and promoting her handbags, Jennifer also writes a blog focussing on inspirational women as well as donating handbags to a number of charities, including SmartWorks, which helps women with clothes, styling and coaching for interviews.
“We’re doing what we can to give to those less fortunate. I’ve seen that with a little help and confidence, every woman can make a difference in her world,” she said.
To vote for Jennifer in the ‘InStyle fan’s favourite’ category at this year’s awards go to http://bit.ly/Vote-For-JenniferHamley, scroll down and click on her bag.
Voters who share the link with the hashtag #VoteForJenniferHamley on any social media channel will be entered into the prize draw to win the bag.
