Mimi Vannier Designs: Visual Art Meets Fashion

Leanne Baskett, a graduate of Toronto’s Ontario College of Art and Design, launched her line of hand-painted artisan bags, Mimi Vannier, the fall of 2008.  Being a self-professed “addict” to “swanky accessories,” Ms. Baskett created the line by combining her “addiction” with her background in visual art.

Jane measures 10″ (L) x 6.5″ (H) x 4″ (W) and retails at $200

Lola (comes in three colours): Measures 10.5″ (tapers to 8.5″) x 8.5″ x 4.  Retails at $275

Mimi Vannier Designs includes the collection (such as the bags in the first two images) as well as custom designs.  In addition, Mimi Vannier is offering the Faith bag (above).  The bag is part of the Have Faith Campaign, sells for $350, and is available in four different interior colours.  $200 of its sales will go to the Canadian Liver Foundation, to support research and education of this disease.

Reception to Ms. Baskett’s bags have been absolutely positive.  In fact, Ms. Baskett is expanding her line to include clutches, make-up bags and portfolios. Ms. Baskett’s bags are available for sale on her website.