I’m short. You wouldn’t think that has anything to do with a handbag would you? I can wear high heels or platform shoes to make me taller when I stand. But what about when I sit? So I created a handbag that allows me to add 2 ½ inches to my seated height, it also looks great when it’s carried, and has room for a clutch, for business files, or even for a small shopping!  It’s the SittingTaller Signature Bag.

I’ve done a lot of creative things in my life including rustic furniture making. But this is the first time I’ve tried to tackle an issue that’s fundamental to everyday living in a creative way. And it was a light bulb moment when I realized that a handbag can have multiple uses. I do want to make clear that I do not make the bags myself. What I did was find a manufacturer who made a leather bag that’s about butt size. And then I got creative.  I use furniture grade extra firm foam wrapped first in Dacron and then in interesting fabrics. Then I permanently attach this pad to one side of the bag. I leave one side unattached so there’s room in the bag for a clutch, a purse, files, or other small items.

This bag grew out of my own cranky struggle with my height. I’m not quite 5 feet tall and while I love going out to eat I hate being the shortest person at the table. Or, at the movies, not being about to see the entire screen because of the head blocking my view in front of me. I would scrunch up my coat and sit on it (you can’t do that in the summer) or ask for a phone book (no one has a phone book anymore). Both of these were embarrassing and inelegant. So I created the SittingTaller Signature Bag.  It’s not only a great looking bag but it’s light to carry as well. Most importantly when you want to sit down you just remove the clutch or purse and discreetly slide the SittingTaller bag onto your seat. It’s amazing that no one realizes what you’re doing since they think you are just bending down to put the bag on the floor.  I suppose in a sense I’m working backwards, because now that I’ve created the concept I need to create a bag that is really my own, and that will be phase two. 

Regarding design nightmares, it took me a long time to find just the right bag and then figure out the best size and shape for the foam.  First of all it took me a long time to find just the right bag. Something that was easy to carry but comfortable to sit on as well. And that was roomy enough to accommodate not only the pad but other items a person might want to carry as well.  However what has made it all worth it has been that you cannot believe how many petite women were magnetized by this bag!! Even I can’t believe its popularity.