Can I Tell You About…Alva Chinn
Alva Chinn with her Alva hobo crossbody.
Can I tell you about Alva Chinn. If you grew up reading fashion magazines and obsessing over the runway divas then you would have seen images of Alva Chinn walking the runway for Stephen Burrows, Halston, Valentino, Oscar de la Renta, Yves Saint Laurent and many other designers of the era. In the fashion documentary of “The Battle of Versailles”, Alva along with other Halstonettes Pat Cleveland and Karen Bjornsen ruled the catwalk triumphantly.
Last year at an event in Manhattan I spotted Alva mingling with other guests. I walked over and introduced myself, ok and perhaps gushed a little. Whilst sipping cocktails she recounted her early days as a model. Oh, the stories she told. I was delighted at how open, engaging and down-to-earth she was. Needless to say I was inspired.
I designed the Alva hobo crossbody with her in mind. It’s a short shoulder bag that comes with an extendable shoulder strap giving her the option to wear it as a crossbody. It’s crafted in a neutral buff color leather and handwoven in the front and back. It’s the perfect day-to-night bag.
Read our Q&A:
1. What is your idea of happiness?
My happiness is peace of mind, harmony and health…together they create wholeness.
2. What is your greatest extravagance?
My greatest extravagance has been losing more diamonds than I can count!!!
3. What is your current state of mind?
Unfortunately as an empathetic person these chaotic times are quite challenging, but thankfully I am committed to practices that assist peace within.
4. Whose style do you most admire?
Marilyn Kirschner’s love of fashion and her vast knowledge truly makes her style a shared gift, watching Zendaya’ evolving style and I thoroughly enjoyed the late Iris Apfel’s sense of whimsy and color in her accessories.
5. What do you consider your greatest achievement?
My greatest achievement hopefully is yet to come.
6. What is your most treasured possession?
The connection between my mind and heart is my most treasured possession.
The Alva hobo worn with the extender strap.
7. Who is your favorite writer?
Tony Morrison and William Shakespeare are neck and neck!
8. Which living person do you most admire?
The Dalai Lama is the person I most admire.
9. Where is your dream destination?
New Zealand is my dream destination besides being visually enchanting, it is the respect for its indigenous people that makes it most appealing to me.
10. What is your motto?
My motto is simply this: Let your heart’s wisdom and your mind’s curiosity guide your connection to wholeness and respecting all life on this beautiful planet we are privileged to share.
The Alva hobo worn with the short strap.
The Alva hobo also comes in a rich cognac color.
