After losing her dream job, Ayana Evans was destined to find a new direction. While admiring a bag in the window of a store, she found out the bag was priced at $400. Telling herself that she could make the bag herself and better, YANA Handbags was born. YANA Handbags are leather collectibles that add beauty and whimsy to any outfit. Each bag features luxurious details such as 18k gold plated hardware, tie dyed suede lining, butter soft leathers and hand sewn bows on every label. Most leathers are re-purposed and vegetable dyed to limit our waste and chemical impact on the environment. YANA strives to create socially conscious handbags by donating proceeds to various charities. This elevates our items to give more than luxury to our clients. Yana Handbags have given you Styleaholic readers a special treat: Using the Promotional Code “Styelaholic Grab” gives you 25% off. Let’s learn more about this designer!Q: What is the inspiration for your collectionsA: Each season has a different theme–ha like most designers. I pick the theme based on what is happening in my life or the world around me. Last year I was obsessed with love and romance, so I ended up with the Romantics and the Rivals for my 2008 collections. This year I’m more focused on being a better person and achieving my dreams, so Spring 09 will be “Chasing the Dream” I was a painter/sculptor before I became a designer…. I approach design in pretty much the same way.Q: Who is the ultimate Yana Handbag ownerA: I think the ULTIMATE YANA Handbag owner is a trend setter!!!! My customers usuallylove to take fashion risks and really appreciate that everything I have is limited edition… They are women who like to be noticed.Q: When did you decide that you wanted to be a handbag designerA: In 2003 not long after I had learned that yet another art program that I was teaching for would be closed due to a lack of funding. Starting my own business was a way to guarantee that I would always have a job!Q: What makes you a StyleaholicA: I am obsessed with fashion; always have been! Did you ever watch Style with Elsa Klinch on CNN I watched it when I was 6!! Plus my mom always had her own eclectic, I-don’t- have-to-match, kind of style. I didn’t love it as a kid but now it seems real cool to me. In the end she rubbed off on me a lot.xxSigourney Bookmark Me Baby: