The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2021 - Issue 29

biteaccessories fashion, she prefers style and would describe London’s fashion as ec- lectic. “I am mindful of the saying by Yves Saint Laurent that, ‘fashion fades and style is eternal.’” Tina revealed Maria Grazia Chiuri for Dior is her favourite accessory designer because her designs are exciting for all age groups. “She is aware of her power and takes her position seriously. Although her original designs are out of reach for most of us, she does not design in an ivory tower. She always seems to speak to the moment without being flippant or superficial. The slogan ‘we should all be feminists’ sums this up.” She is also a massive fan of Chanel, which is evident in her collection. “The longevity of the quilted flap bag is testament to the notion of sustainability through style. Chanel bags do not end up in a landfill. They are treasured and look good with everything and everywhere. The Lady Dior bag is the same.” The first accessories she bought at the age of 20 with her mother at Harvey Nichols were two wide gold cuff bracelets. “I thought I had truly arrived. I don’t have those pieces now, but I really wish I had held onto them.” Tina appreciates the quality of craftsmanship in luxury and fashion- able designs. “I like the details and the quality of the metalwork, the lining and the works. A beautiful, luxury crafted item is special.” As a business owner, she accomplished riding the tide of the pandemic despite having only two months of trading before Covid was first mentioned. “We are also part of an emerging sector that has been doubly challenging as most people don’t even know that you can rent a designer bag!” Her most outstanding achievement has been gaining recognition in the press and growing their customer base organically. She focuses on expanding her followers and the brand’s message on social media, which has been a fantastic tool to spread the word of the business and let people know which pieces are available to rent. Enlisting the help of a PR agency, BagButler has loaned pieces to celebrities. “So far, we can count Pixie Lott and Ashley Robert as big fans of the brand, which is incredibly thrilling.” When she’s not working, this wonderful empowering lady loves to walk, read and exercise, and spend time with her family and friends. “I quite like organising, and I love my Cavapop Pippa, who is two. I am also strangely comforted by watching Bangers and Cash! ” The TV se- ries shows behind-the-scenes of a North Yorkshire-based, family-run historic car auction business, which uncovers some remarkably rare vehicles in Thornton-le-Dale. Tina’s immediate plan is to launch a subscription option called Bag- Butler Premier. “This will offer a very limited number of clients access to a greater number of hires per month and a one-to-one service. Really, this will be a handbag concierge service that is very personal hence why we will be keeping the numbers small.” The existing option to rent by the week will remain as she says this is perfect for customers wanting the use of a piece for a special event. The founder strives to make as many people as aware of the benefits of rental over ownership. “My aim is not to be the biggest, but I’d like to be well thought of and to be the best at what we do.” She works with the non-profit organisation Against Breast Cancer; offering customers to send in any bras they no longer wear when they return their bags, which she then donates to the charity. www.bagbutler.co.uk