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Perry Ellis with his daughter, Tyler -
Tyler Alexandra’s Laura Jane handbag in pewter python styled with clothing from the Perry Ellis archives, photographed by Phillip Lopez -
Tyler Alexandra’s Anjuli clutch in beige lizard styled with clothing from the Perry Ellis archives, photographed by Phillip Lopez -
Tyler Alexandra’s Jane saddle in natural blue lizard and black lizard styled with clothing from the Perry Ellis archives, photographed by Phillip Lopez -
Tyler Alexandra’s Lee clutch in cheetah hair calf styled with clothing from the Perry Ellis archives, photographed by Phillip Lopez -
Tyler Alexandra’s Jamie doctor bag in white mink and black leather styled with clothing from the Perry Ellis archives, photographed by Phillip Lopez -
Tyler Alexandra’s Lee clutch in painted bronze python styled with clothing from the Perry Ellis archives, photographed by Phillip Lopez
Like father, like daughter, as they say. Our Father’s Day spotlight continues as we get to know Tyler Alexandra Gallagher Ellis — the daughter of fashion legend Perry Ellis — who launched her own handbag collection, Tyler Alexandra, in 2011. Although Ellis passed away when she was a baby, his imprint finds its way into her line — in the logo, for instance. Read all about it, and more, in our interview with her here.
He made me a baby-sized pink Perry Ellis button-down shirt. He created it just for me. =)
Favorite anecdote about him…
My father was in NYC and my mom, very pregnant with me in LA, was having one of her famous black and white milkshake cravings. Unbeknownst to her, he called up the Beverly Hills Hotel, ordered her favorite shake and had a driver deliver it to her Brentwood home (on the opposite side of the 405 freeway). She was so surprised and thankful. To this day she still has the glass it came in!
My favorite design of his…
I think it’s less about one specific design and more about the courage and innovation he brought to the fashion. It’s a constant reminder to me that while this is a serious business, we shouldn’t take it too seriously… and that is what can foster the timeless elegance he and I both strive for.
The story behind my logo…
My father passed away when I was 18 months old, so I never got to know him. Three months before I started my company, my mom gave me an envelope my dad had addressed to me for my first birthday, “Miss Tyler Alexandra Ellis.” I had it framed and kept it on my desk. When I was deciding what to name my company, I looked at the envelope and thought what could be more perfect! His penmanship of my name became my logo, making my dad a part of everything I do!
A Tyler Alexandra handbag is all about…
Timeless, functional, luxury! All of my bags have cross-body straps, pockets (for anything and everything that you can think of), are lightweight, and come with phone chargers (in travel bags), all while being made at top factories in Florence and using the finest leathers and skins. Tyler Alexandra bags will remain relevant in the fashion world from generation to generation because of the top-quality craftsmanship and classic beauty of the bags. I can’t wait to see my granddaughter carrying the bags I carry today!!
The inspiration behind the launch…
I’m very lucky to have been to many different countries and, during my travels, I noticed that women in Paris are carrying the same luxury bags as the women in Tokyo, London, LA, Sydney, etc. I believe if you are spending money on a handbag, it should be special and unique… not on the arm of zillions of women around the world. So I created Tyler Alexandra as a luxury bespoke brand, for women who want something different. My bags have no outward labels, only my signature “Thayer” blue lining and pinecone zipper pulls and feet. I do a lot of custom bags for private clients, where they are able to choose the skin, hardware color and monogram initials… creating a personalized one of a kind bag!
Most exciting part about owning your own business…
Tyler Alexandra is my baby. Like any parent, watching your child grow is so rewarding! Where I am today compared to five years ago is crazy. My product has evolved into something I’m truly proud of. I have an incredible team of supporters behind me and I’m super-excited about the future, and where I will be in the next five years!
And the most challenging…
Michael Kors gave me a piece of advice when I first started out. He said, “Surround yourself with the best people possible.” At the time, I didn’t think too much about it, and I ended up learning the hard way. I let people take advantage of me and it ended up costing me a lot, financially and personally. Michael’s phrase will be ingrained in me forever!
And how to overcome the above…
Always listen to your gut! If something feels off it most likely is. Don’t put things off because the situation is uncomfortable or unpleasant. The longer you wait to acknowledge the situation, the harder it becomes to solve. Remember: It is your company and only you truly know what is best for you.
The inspirations I’ve pulled from my father’s designs…
My father’s designs were fun, functional and exquisite. He allowed women to be comfortable, while still feeling sexy and beautiful, which I think about when designing every bag I make.