Boston Common - Niche Media - A side of Boston that's anything but common.
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EAT, DRINK, SHOP, AND UNWIND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SETH OLENICK THE VERY BEST OF acquire: bracelet & earring cuffs relax: high-tech treatments S pices and souks, prayers and colors: these are some of the inspira- tions behind Milicent Armstrong's vibrant travel bags. The Boston native is the designer and founder of Artemis Design Co., a lifestyle company that unites Armstrong's passions for fashion, art, and exotic destinations—especially Turkey. She is inspired by the country's incompa- rable beauty and unbridled spirit, and has traveled there five times to meet with the craftsmen and cobblers who make her bags. "These handbags were designed for a woman who appreciates the beauty of handwoven, antique textiles and great quality craftsmanship," says Armstrong, who designs everything from wallets to totes made from leather, Kilim carpet, silk, and velvet ikat. "Because all of the textiles are sourced from other cultures and traditions, I think my products really attract a woman who loves to travel." Starting her own company was a lifelong dream, which was kickstarted during Armstrong's time studying color theory and interior design at Boston Architectural College. "Travel can be so inspiring for a textile lover because you see so many new styles, colors, and patterns used in ways they aren't at home," says Armstrong. "Seeing where my textiles are made in Turkey has made me appreciate the beauty of the craft." Keep one of Armstrong's bags packed this spring for a spontaneous long weekend in Cape Cod or Nantucket. You never know where you're going to end up. artemisdesignco.com BC Have Bag, Will Travel MILICENT ARMSTRONG OF ARTEMIS DESIGN CO. EXPRESSES HER LOVE OF EXOTIC LANDS IN HER BOLD DESIGNS FOR SPRING. BY JESSICA LANIEWSKI BOSTONCOMMON-MAGAZINE.COM 123 T he G uide 123_BC_TG_Opener_Spring14.indd 123 2/6/14 4:24 PM