It all started for Clare Vivier in 2003. At the time, Vivier was a journalist working in French television. As a frequent traveler and busy writer, she was forced to carry her laptop wherever she went. Unable to find a worthy laptop case, Clare began to manufacture padded envelope cases for herself and her friends. This was only the first step in creating her exquisite handbag line. In 2012, Vivier opened her flagship store in the hip Los Angeles neighborhood of Silverlake, and she also recently opened a store in New York. Some of her clientele include Jessica Alba, Sophia Bush, Katie Holmes, Emma Roberts, Jenni Kayne, and myself, of course! Be sure to check out Vivier’s Zeitgeist interview below.
I absolutely love your signature foldover clutch. What was the inspiration behind it?
I began designing because I was looking for a fashionable yet functional laptop case when I was working in TV early on in my career. I think the foldover is a great size, because it can be both compact or oversized, depending on your preference and really can be customized and carried the way you want to wear it. Ultimately, it’s about fitting your essentials in the bag with you and being able to carry it from day to night, which the foldover really delivers on. I love seeing girls wearing their CV foldovers during the day – there’s something so unexpected about that.
If you could only have one bag for the rest of your life, which would you choose?
I think that answer changes depending on the season. I love the Sandrine that I’ve been wearing for a few months now, it fits my laptop and all of my belongings so nicely, and still looks so ladylike. But, I also love the clutches for their versatility, I always seem to have one with me, carried in a bigger tote or on its own.
Silverlake is such a hip and cool LA neighborhood. What about the area inspired you to open your boutique there?
I actually live in Silverlake and lived there even before opening our store. There’s something about the vibe of the neighborhood that’s always really resonated with me. I love the community of artists and great local institutions and I wanted my first store to be a reflection of that. I’m so proud that our flagship is in Silverlake and on a great corner on Sunset. And, I’m so excited to be growing the brand’s presence in LA, opening a new store in Santa Monica on Montana late Fall.
When you travel with your “Duffel Grand”, what do you pack for a weekend getaway?
I start with my laptop, I always travel with it in tow. My iPhone is in there, too, along with a few smaller CV cases that keep my makeup and other essentials organized. I’ve even been known to have a juice or two with me in my bag and always have my Heather Taylor Home scarf on hand in case it gets cold on the plane.
What piece of advice do you have for young entrepreneurs?
Get as much experience as you possibly can. Whether it’s taking meetings, networking or interning in various roles at companies, the more exposure you get, the more informed you’ll be when you begin your own venture.
Featured image source: Vanity Fair.