Elena Fiore Designs

Elena Fiore's Handbag

I've decided to assume my Italian name of Elena Fiore for this purse project! Elena = Ellen. Fiore = Flowers or Bloom. Perfect! I wonder if Isabella Fiore's real name is Izzy Bloom?

Anyway, I've finally completed my Faux Fiore. It's been a long journey. I'm not an expert seamstress, so the zipper on my handbag is not perfect, but it works. I haven't sewn in a zipper since that A-line dress I made in junior high sewing class, about a thousand years ago.

You will remember that the original Isabella Fiore handbag retails for almost $600 at Nordstrom's. It's positively gorgeous, beautifully constructed and I want one. I just cannot see spending that much money on a fabric bag, so I made one for myself. I used Julie Holtez' "Fat Bottom Bag" pattern from the "Happy Hooker" crochet book for the basis of the bag, changing the handles to a hobo style strap with glamour rings instead of round handles. I crocheted another bag in olive green acrylic to use for the lining. I added lots of free-formed flowers and leaves to the front of bag. I put in a big sports zipper for the closure. I think it looks great! Total cost of materials = $25.

I like Julie's Fat Bottom Bag pattern so much, that I decided to make it again, following the pattern religiously. I used Noro Kureyon in a black, tan, grey stripe for the outside, burgundy Cascade for the inside, black round plastic handles and stash wool for the flowers and leaves sewn on the front of the bag. I really like this bag too. All it needs is a snap closure!

I'm thinking about becoming Elena Pucci for my next handbag experiment!

Addendum: Thanks to Stephanie at the Anti-Factory for posting about me on her blog. She's the Counterfeit Queen of Handbags!!