The 'And Just Like That' star and style icon, Sarah Jessica Parker, has once again confirmed her fashion prowess, this time as a judge for the prestigious 2023 Etsy Design Award. The grand prize was claimed by none other than Maria Gabriela Duque, an independent designer discovered on Etsy. Duque's stunning and versatile cactus leather Emma Bag captured Parker's attention, and in her opinion, marked the dawn of the next big thing in accessory design.
"Maria Gabriela Duque offers an exciting blend of vintage and innovation," Parker revealed to InStyle. Known for her keen eye for fashion, Parker recognized the unique allure in Duque's design, which stood out amidst the sea of artisanal entries.
The Emma Bag — a convertible piece that can be styled as a belt, crossbody, or top-handle bag — appealed to Parker's sense of timeless elegance. She noted, "A sense of enduring presence is significant for me. Color, too, plays a pivotal role in captivating me, but it has to be applied thoughtfully." Parker appreciated the minimalistic charm of Duque's design, noting, "Maria's bag is sleek, incorporating color in a mindful manner, which is truly remarkable."
Duque, an electrical engineer turned independent fashion designer, combined her technical expertise with creative vision and commitment to sustainability, a fusion that resonated with Parker. This combination of skills, she believes, propelled Duque to clinch the $25,000 Grand Prize.
Dayna Isom Johnson, Etsy Trend Expert and co-judge of the Etsy Design Awards, echoed Parker's sentiments. She particularly loved the Emma Bag's versatility. She appreciated Duque's sustainable approach, mentioning that vegan leather is the future of fashion. Johnson also commended Duque for educating her customers about the lifecycle of her pieces.
Duque, who has always been fascinated by fashion, started her journey as a teenager designing a chic, book-carrying bag with her mother's assistance. Today, she continues to create functional, aesthetically pleasing pieces. In creating the Emma Bag, she wanted to bring something different to the table. Inspired by an old wooden bracelet and sustainable materials, Duque developed a design that reflects the natural world.
Despite her success, Duque never anticipated winning the Etsy Design Award. The challenges of being an immigrant, single mother, and small business owner had nearly extinguished her hope. However, the recognition she received through the Etsy Design Awards has illuminated her exceptional craftsmanship, a feat that Parker recognizes and appreciates.
Parker expressed her admiration for the artisans carving out their businesses on Etsy, stating, "Discovering unique, innovative people creating businesses that are singular and inspired has been one of the best parts of this experience."
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