Sang A Pops For Accessories

By Bee-Shyuan Chang
September 27, 2011

Sang A

left: "Out" in Black Circle Dot Embroidered Leather; right: "Mini Pop" in Dirty Silver/Gold Python

Going from pop star to handbag designer isn't your humdrum career trajectory, but that's the adrenaline-fueled road Sang A Im-Propp has taken. The pretty New York resident was a Korean pop sensation before settling down to start her handbag, Sang A, line in 2006. Naturally, with her starry background, Im-Propp's luxurious handbag designs have a jetsetter in mind—the roomy "Pop" tote in a buffed charcoal python has a convertible shoulder strap (perfect for navigating a crowded airport) and the "Out" in dot-embroidered leather has multiple compartments (for must-haves and touristy trinkets) and can be slung over the shoulder or worn as a backpack. With a focus on materials—think exotic python and textured leathers in thoughtful shapes—the handbag line has earned a devoted fashion editor following. Im-Propp, who just presented her collection during New York Fashion Week, will hit Paris Fashion Week next.

The Inside Source: Before you were designing accessories, you were a pop star. What was that like?

Sang A Im-Propp: It was exciting and fast-paced. The entertainment industry was a non-stop ride where I was constantly pushing and challenging myself. Each day was filled with a mix of stage performances, studio recordings, rehearsals, etc.

The Inside Source: How long did you do that for?

Sang A Im-Propp: Four and a half years.

The Inside Source: Now you have your own accessories line. How did that idea come about?

Sang A Im-Propp: I've always had a love and passion for great design that is thoughtful and fun. My vision was to share it by having my own fashion accessories line.

The Inside Source: Who's the woman you're designing for?

Sang A Im-Propp: The brand is for the "future-classic" customer—a woman who possesses a sense of whimsy and fun, is forward thinking, and embraces innovation and edge. She's anywhere from 25-65. She is highly educated, and depending on her life stage and her inner compass, she is a single urban professional, a chic and active parent or a patron of social causes, arts and leisure.

Sang A

left: "Geo" in Black Buffed Python; right: "Swing" in Black Buffed Python

The Inside Source: Your often play with different leathers in your work. Is texture something you focus on?

Sang A Im-Propp: I always want texture. I don't like anything flat.

The Inside Source: Do you ever miss the pop star life?

Sang A Im-Propp: I do miss being on stage and the audience.

The Inside Source: What music do you listen to now? Any Korean stars?

Sang A Im-Propp: Yes, I've been listening to Dynamic Duo and Sung Shikyung.

Sang A

left: "Pop" in Black Buffed Python; right: "Out" in Black Buffed Python

The Inside Source: Onto style matters: what are some of your favorite fashion pieces in your closet at the moment?

Sang A Im-Propp: These are my favorites right now: Wildfox t-shirts, Henrik Vibskov black and yellow tunic, Martin Margiela ankle boots, Zucca pleated skirt, Anntian black and white striped slip-ons.

The Inside Source: Where do you usually shop?

Sang A Im-Propp: Creatures of Comfort, Jumelle and Henrik Vibskov.

The Inside Source: Have you shopped eBay before?

Sang A Im-Propp: Yes, I'll go on the site to look for vintage furniture and clothes.