Frequently Asked Questions

What information must you have of mine?

TOP QUESTIONS

1. What are the IHDA Category Qualifications?
   The Best Student Made Handbag
   
   Students who have successfully started their handbag lines which still in school
   Students must have started their lines while still in school
   Currently attending high school, college or university on any level
   Bags must be under student's own label
   Major in design is optional
   
   The BERNINA Best Handmade Handbag
   
   Made with any material where the designer is making their bag by sewing machine or by hand
   Bags must be made by the designer using a sewing machine or by hand
   Must be under designer's own label
   Manufactured or factory made bags are not allowed
   
   The Basic Adhesives Best Green Handbag
   
   Bags that are made out of sustainable, recycled or organic materials
   Bags can be made from:
   Raw materials: 100% organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, cork
   Recycled materials: fabric, soda bottles, vinyl, etc.
   Sustainable fibers: corn based, cotton, linen, ramie, seaweed, silk, soy, etc.
   All components (e.g. metal zippers, buttons, clasps should be made from recycled metal or reused pieces)
   Handbag should be completely recyclable at the end of its life
   Any dyed fabric should be done with a non-toxic dye that does not use fixing agents
   
   The Most Socially Responsible Handbag:
   
   Bags must be under designer's own label
   Bags must be made in country where portion of the proceeds are given back to that country of manufacturing
   Bags must be made by country that employs local communities to create jobs and work in third world countries or poverty-stricken regions
   
   The Best Handbag in Overall Style and Design
   
   Best executed handbag overall in style and design
   Best executed handbag overall in style and design
   Bags must be under designer's own label
   Bags must be unique in their overall style and design
   
   ** Sketch Based Categories **
   
   The Young and Adventurous Lifestyle Backpack by Guess Handbags
   
   SKETCH BASED
   A playful and imaginative way of embracing the personality of the Guess brand and logo
   Designers are required to submit a sketch. Designers are encouraged to create their own vision of a GUESS handbag using their own inspiration and imagination. Finalists that are selected will be responsible for making the bags they have sketched within 3 weeks so keep in mind when selecting materials for your rendering. No materials or inspiration will be provided for this sample.
   For inspiration, check out Guess.com, Guess retail locations as well as Guess' Instagram https://www.instagram.com/guess/
   
   The Cutting Edge Bag by Nasty Gal
   
   

   • Designers are required to submit a sketch.
   • Designers are encouraged to create their own vision of a Nasty Gal handbag using their own inspiration and imagination.
   • Finalists that are selected will be responsible for making the bags they have sketched within 3 weeks so keep in mind when selecting materials for your rendering.
   • No materials or inspiration will be provided for this sample.
   • For inspiration, check out NastyGal.com, Nasty Gal retail locations (where available) as well as Nasty Gal's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nastygal/

   
   
   The Best Fujifilm Instax Camera Bag
   
   

   • Designers are required to submit a sketch using the qualifications below.
   • Finalists that are selected will be responsible for making the bags they have sketched within 3 weeks, so keep that in mind when selecting materials for your rendering.
   • No materials will be provided for this sample.
   • Please refer to the Instax website for inspiration: http://www.fujifilmusa.com/products/instax/cameras/mini_70/index.html/
   • The bag must have the Instax logo on the outside.
   • Structurally be able to hold the weight of the camera (~.61 lbs without battery, strap and film pack) and be big enough to fit the camera (99.2 mm W x 113.7 mm H x 53.2 D mm not including protrusions), a twin pack of Instax Mini Film (2.5" W x 3.75" H x 1.75" D), an extra set of CR2 batteries as well as any accessories that one would possibly carry with a camera (phone, keys, wallet, makeup bag, etc.) See image below for inspiration

   
   
   
   
   InStyle.com Audience Fan Favorite
   
   Based on the 2016 IHDA Finalists & Voted by InStyle.com's online audience and fans
   
   
2. Can anyone apply?
   Yes. No matter where you are at in your business, you are welcome to apply. However, note that if you are designing for a licensee or are funded by another brand, your submission will not be accepted since you are no longer an independent handbag designer.
3. How do I apply?
   Upload 1 "product shot" of one bag only in jpeg format and be sure to save the image with no hyphens, spaces or symbols. Make sure the image is a jpeg and not a bitmap, pdf or any other format, or else your application will be disqualified.Correct: Handbags_By_MeIncorrect: Handbags-By-Me
4. What is the best way to show my bag?
   Please make sure that the image is of the highest resolution and quality. Try to avoid distracting backgrounds like people or hangers and do not have any text or watermarks on the uploaded images. Try to avoid using people so it does not take away from the details of your bag. If you need more information, go to Bloomingdale's to see how they display their handbags to understand what a proper handbag product shot looks like.
5. Can I upload an image with my logo on it just in case for branding?
   No. It is distracting to your bag image and will take away from the details of the bag. We will know it is your bag, don't worry.
6. What information must you have of mine?
   We will need your name, email address and correct telephone numbers. We will also need a bag detailed description. Make sure to also include below the image a description and keep it simple; Bag Brand Name, Style name (if there is one), silhouette type, material, color and retail price.Example: Handbags By Me, "Hanna" style, Tote, red lambskin leather, $200Photos that are too blurry or dark will be not be accepted. Please note that applications submitted without a full product description or not in jpeg format will also be disqualified.
7. What is a silhouette?
   Silhouette is a the shape of your bag. For example, tote, cross-body, hobo, coin-purse, facile-frame - those are silhouettes that you could use to describe your bag.
8. What if I submit a pdf, gif, a word document, my linesheets or anything but a jpeg?
   Your photo will not upload and will not be accepted.
9. Will I be informed if my bag is not uploaded correctly?
   Yes. We review the applications and will alert you as a courtesy if your image does not go through. That will be the only reason why you will be contacted prior to the application closing deadline of April 27th, 2019 at 11:59pm, EST.
10. When I hit the Proceed button, my computer freezes.
    You need to make sure you are working with at least Windows 97. Any version older will not be able to transmit images.
11. Can I apply with 2 different bags to the same category?
    No, if you do, the first bag applied will be the bag that is used for that category submission.
12. Can I use the same bag for every category?
    Yes you can.
13. English is not my first language. Will that work against me when I apply?
    No, but we strongly recommend proof-reading or having someone review your application regardless.
14. Can I review my application after I apply?
    No. Once you apply and submit, your application is complete. We strongly suggest proof-reading and review your application before you submit to avoid any spelling or grammar errors. Please write in full sentences. Remember you are representing your brand.
15. How long does it take to apply?
    Only 5-10 minutes but we strongly advise proof-reading your application before you submit.
16. Which categories require a sketch submission and not a finished bag?
    See the categories that have the pencil on their page that states "SKETCH BASED." The guidelines are for sketch-based categories are that you must submit a detailed sketch and are to be submitted in jpeg format. Once informed you are a finalist, you will be required to make the bags from your sketches within the time allotted. Any submission for these categories that is of a finished bag will not be accepted.
17. Can I use a sketch of a bag I already made?
    No. If used, it will be disqualified.
18. How long will I get to actually make my bag if I become a finalist for either categories?
    You will be informed if you are a Finalist on Monday, April 30th.
19. When is the application deadline?
    April 27, 2019 at 11:59pm EST with no exceptions.
20. Will the deadline be extended?
    No.
21. My bags won't be ready to shoot until after April 27th, is that ok?
    No. Your application will not be accepted.
22. What is the IHDA Process?
    The industry's top fashion and accessories' bloggers will review submissions at a pre-screening event on April 29th. Five finalists will be selected in each category based on the merits of their designs. Once selected, designers must send their handbag to IHDA headquarters within one week of being notified. From here, a fashion panel of esteemed industry professional will judge the finalists' designs. The designer that receives the most votes in each category will be announced as the winner on June 12th, 2019.
23. If I am a finalist, when will I be informed?
    You will be informed if you are a Finalist on Monday, April 25th.
24. If I am a finalist, what are my responsibilities?
    Once informed, you will need to send the bag you submitted to IHDA Headquarters by no later than Friday, May 1st since they will be collected on Monday, May 4th for InStyle to shoot. Any bags received after May 1st will not be accepted and will be disqualified. Please note, it is your responsibility to pay for all shipping, handling, customs and duties fees to ship and/or return your bag. Any bag shipped COD will be disqualified.
25. What if my bag is not available on April 28th?
    Finalists may provide the exact bag that was submitted in order to compete in the design competition. We will not accept a bag in a different color, material or shape. Any other bags will not be accepted and will be disqualified.
26. What if I am disqualified?
    With over 2000 applicants, the designer that was last chosen will take your place. It is very important that all rules are followed so this does not happen.
27. Do I need to come to New York City for the IHDA on June 12th, 2019?
    Yes. You must be in attendance.
28. Can the IHDA provide accommodation, help finance my trip or organize my itinerary to NYC?
    No. It is your responsibility to pay for your own trip. This is a life changing opportunity and you shouldn't miss it.
29. How can I become part of the Audience Fan Favorite Award?
    The InStyle Audience Fan Favorite is based on the IHDA Finalists selected. Those Finalists are guaranteed a spot on InStyle.com for voting. Please note that only applies to the categories with finished bags, not sketch submissions.
30. I only have 1 sample of my bag, will that be a problem?
    No, but you should be organized and make sure you are aware how to produce your bag just in case you are a Winner and need samples ready for sale or press.
31. I am a Finalist, will I get my bag back?
    After June 14th, all Finalists will get their bags returned unless needed for press or further editorial coverage.
32. What are the IHDA Prizes?
    The Best Student Made Handbag
    
    Winner will receive a collaboration with famed brand. Winner will receive a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council.
    
    The BERNINA Best Handmade Handbag
    
    Winner will receive the BERNINA 560 sewing machine. In addition, winners will have the prestigious opportunity to be an Ambassador for BERNINA in creating blogs and projects for BERNINA social media and We All Sew Blog. Winner will receive a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council.
    
    The Basic Adhesives Best Green Handbag
    
    Winner will have the opportunity to be a brand ambassador for Basic Adhesives, and a year-long membership to the Accessories Council.
    
    The Best Handbag in Overall Style and Design
    
    These bags represent the best-executed handbag in overall style and design. Winner will receive a booth at ENK's Accessorie Circuit, a mentorship with Hilldun and a brand consultancy with the Accessory Think Thank. The winner will also garner the opportunity to work for an established brand, and a year-long membership to the Accessories Council.
    
    *** Sketch Based Categories ***
    
    The Young and Adventurous Lifestyle Backpack by Guess Handbags
    
    Winner will garner the possibility to collaborate with the Guess Handbag Design Team using the winning bag as inspiration, and receive a year-long membership to the Accessories Council..
    
    The Cutting Edge Bag by Nasty Gal
    
    Winner will garner the opportunity to potentially collaborate with the Nasty Gal Handbag Design Team using the winning bag as inspiration and receive a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council.
    
    The Best Fujifilm Instax Camera Bag
    
    Winner will receive a Instax Mini 70 camera and a case of instant film as well as the opportunity to collaborate with FUJIFILM to create the winning bag, and a yearlong membership with the Accessories Council.
    
    InStyle.com Audience Fan Favorite
    
    Winner will receive a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council and also be part of the IHDA feature in the September issue of InStyle.
33. Will more categories be added after January 1st? I want to know if I should keep checking in just in case.
    Yes! Stay tuned as we are confirming more great categories and prizes so definitely stay tuned.
34. I am a Winner, how do I get my prize?
    It is the Winner's responsibility to follow up with their Sponsor's prize. The Winner should make sure they speak to their sponsor immediately the night of the Awards and make arrangements to meet the day after to discuss details to execute the collaboration.
35. Can I contact the IHDA regarding my prize after I win?
    We will connect you with your category Sponsor in order to ensure that you receive your prize and fulfull your IHDA duties. Please note that your win is also a reflection on us so it is also your responsibility to do the best job possible.
36. I would like to send out a press release about my win, is that OK?
    Absolutely, but you must send all releases to the IHDA for approval.
37. How can I follow you on Instagram, SnapChat, Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin and Meetup?
    Absolutely! Instagram: @HandbagDesigner; SnapChat: @HandbagDesigner; Twitter: @HandbagDesigner; Facebook: /HBD101; Linkedin: Handbag Designer 101; Meetup: Handbag Designer 101.
38. I have a question that isn't answered, can I contact you?
    Yes, you may contact us at support@handbagdesigner101.com.
39. How do the sketch based categories work?
    For the application process, you have to submit a sketch based on the guidelines provided by each category. You will be notified the first day after the Preliminary Judging Panel meets that you are Finalist. This year it is on April 29th. From there, you have approximately 3 weeks to complete the finished bag based on the sketch you provided. It must reflect the submitted sketch without exception. This year's deadline will be on May 24th. You will be responsible for sending in your own bag at your expense to the sponsor which you will be notified further information as to where it will go for be judged.
40. What is the deadline to apply to this year's Handbag Awards?
    Saturday, April 27th at midnight EST

TOP 5 QUESTIONS

1. What are the IHDA Category Qualifications?
2. Can anyone apply?
3. How do I apply?
4. What is the best way to show my bag?
5. Can I upload an image with my logo on it just in case for branding?

Additional Resources