Q&A with Head of Designer Handbags & Fashion

Popsy Kundi has been part of the Chiswick Auctions family for many years and she will now be heading up our well established Designer Handbags & Fashion Department. We sit down with Popsy to discuss her fashion career so far, her favourite auction buys and favourite designers.

How did you get into fashion? 
I got into fashion after leaving university and working full time in Oasis Kensington.  After doing a Business and Finance degree, my intention was to apply for a graduate training scheme at Marks and Spencer, but I missed the deadline and had worked in various high street stores so thought ok… I’ll start this. Within a couple of years after staying at Oasis, though not intending to, I got a fabulous role at Head Office!

Favourite thing you’ve brought from Chiswick Auctions? 
This vintage Chanel Maxi Flap bag, in lamb leather is from 1985 and is over 30 years old.  It was one of the first Chanel bags which Chiswick sold.  I was so lucky to get it as we’ve only had one other in this size consigned again!



 

What’s your fashion mantra? 
If you can’t bare it… then don’t wear it! And wear the clothes… don’t let them wear you!

Hermès or Chanel? 
Chanel!!!

Favourite thing about working in an auction house? 
The variety and the unknown!  You never know what’s going to be consigned…it’s like being a child in a sweet shop, you never know what you are going to consign and how much it will sell for. It’s always a surprise!

Favourite fashion icon?
Mademoiselle Coco Chanel!  She liberated women in the post World War I era from the constraints of corsets and popularised sporty casual chic as the feminine standard of style.  Chanel was the original fashion creator, her influence extended beyond couture clothing realising her design aesthetic in handbags, jewellery and fragrance. She is the original creator of the luxury fashion brand.

We offer free and confidential valuations on any items you might wish to sell at auction. For more information get in touch with Popsy Kundi, Head of Designer Handbags and Fashion.