Miel Accessories

Lisandra Ochoa is the founder of the exquisite handbag line Miel Accessories. Lisandra’s creations are modern, decadent accessories strewn with a touch of whimsy. I own a few Miel handbags and each one is so special that sometimes I forget that they are more than just an object of wonderlust. Don't forget to toss in your mobile phone, keys and metro pass, after all these fabulous bags DO also happen to serve a function.

Lisandra is a talented and successful entrepreneur, with an eye for quality craftsmanship. Each bag is handcrafted in San Francisco’s mission district. Lisandra has been featured in Lucky and 7x7 magazines. Fred Segal in Los Angeles has recently picked up the line, as well as Rolo in San Francisco and Verve in New York.

When and why did you start Miel Accessories?
Well, originally I wanted to get into clothing design. That’s what I was studying in school. I got into handbags and accessories by chance. I made my first bags out of leather and fake fur as Christmas presents about 3 years ago. Strangers would approach my friend, curious about her bag and how they could get their hands on one. That’s how I got my first orders. Miel began very much by word of mouth.

What is your inspiration for the latest collection?
Elderly Black and Russian ladies dressed up in their Sunday best. They ride the Fillmore 22 line Bus. Besides parading an endless assortment of vintage handbags, I love how they carry on the tradition of hats and gloves. Their whole look is such an inspiration to me.

On your path to starting the line, were there any major challenges in the beginning?
Absolutely! Designing is the least of the challenges. Nailing down sourcing, production and distribution. Dealing with the business nuts-and-bolts end of things was and still is one of my biggest challenges.

Did you have an early interest in design and fashion?
I guess to keep our hands busy my mom taught my sister and I needlepoint. Then I really got into making clothes for my Barbies. I was also obsessed with Fashion Plates.

Favorite designers, places, stores, people, things that were formative to your current creative vision?
I’ve always loved Gaultier. He doesn’t seem to take himself too seriously yet his designs are a piece of art. It’s that same attitude that I admire and inspire my creative vision.

What is your vision for your Miel Accessories?
To continue to make products that excite people because they genuinely enjoy the design and because it’s not a status symbol and because it won’t be knocked off and sold on the street or sold at the local hair salon.

What cities and neighborhoods inspire you?
I guess like everyone else I love the energy in Manhattan, but to be honest I really love San Francisco. Chinatown at night, the fog rolling in, a view of the bridges.

What about them appeals to you?
The atmosphere and low key vibe of San Francisco. For instance when you’re crossing the bay Bridge at night into San Francisco, I never get bored with that beautiful view. It always feels like it’s welcoming me back home.

Name a few of your favorite stores in SF, LA, NY, or anywhere?
In SF I always loved Bettina’s, American Rag, Venus SuperStar and Gimme Shoes. In New York A.P.C, window shopping at Barney’s, and in LA I love Fred Segal and Ressurrection.

Any unique non-fashion stores that you love?
Not sure if this qualifies as a store, but I really love the Farmer’s Market at the San Francisco Ferry Building. The people, the food, the gorgeous view. Everything just smells wonderful and you want to taste every sample that comes your way. It’s nice being outside.

Anything new on the horizon for Miel Accessories?
Keep an eye on October’s  Lucky Magazines, Lucky Breaks section. I also finally launched my new online store www.miel-accessories.com