Bag Lady Interview: Annabelle - Creative, Designer and Surfer

WHY HOZEN?

HOZEN has been my go-to brand when I'm on the lookout for new bags. It was the very first vegan bag company I came across, and I've stuck with it ever since. The quality is top-notch, and they're so well-made that I don't need to constantly replace them. Plus, the colors and designs are incredibly unique and fun! Shopping with HOZEN never gets old because there's always something timeless yet exciting to discover.

I’d describe my style as laid-back California chic, favoring neutral tones but jazzing things up with vintage designer blazers, mini heels, and chunky boots. My bag usually ties the whole outfit together or becomes the highlight of my look. HOZEN's vibrant colors and quirky shapes give me that extra boost to feel like a cool girl, even if I’m wearing something super casual.

FUN FACT.

In my younger years, I was into competitive vaulting—basically gymnastics on a moving horse! That might sound wild, but it taught me discipline and balance. Later on, during my first year of college, I launched my own business, Belle The Label. I wasn’t confident about landing a job post-graduation, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. Starting early turned out to be a game-changer. Now, I run three businesses that are all interconnected, and I couldn’t be happier with how things have turned out.

IDEAL DAY?

An ideal day would involve waking up to clear skies and warm weather during a camping trip—somewhere like Baja or Big Sur. Being surrounded by my closest friends makes everything better. We’d spend the day enjoying pristine beaches, hiking through untouched nature, and soaking in the serenity. To wrap up the evening, we’d share a delicious homemade meal together, maybe play board games or attend a live concert. Last summer, my friends and I took a road trip deep into Big Sur. We brought along a generator and instruments, creating an unforgettable experience under the stars. There’s something magical about sharing moments like that with loved ones.

WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR DOWN TIME?

Truthfully, I don’t have much downtime anymore. Between running my sustainable manufacturing agency, Transparency Studio, and managing two other ventures, my schedule is packed. Transparency Studio helps brands develop ethical practices, and since many of my clients are in Australia, I often start working with them late at night or early in the morning. It’s demanding, but I genuinely enjoy it. I thrive on productivity and rarely take breaks unless absolutely necessary. On rare occasions when I do relax, I love experimenting with recipes in the kitchen, going on hikes, or surfing whenever the waves are good. I also enjoy scrolling through inspiring blogs, flipping through art books, learning about nutrition, and dabbling in skincare routines. Meditation has become a recent interest of mine—I’m still working on making it a consistent habit, but when I do practice, it feels amazing. Honestly, I find lying in bed typing emails or finishing small tasks surprisingly calming. It helps me mentally prepare for the next day. I guess you could say I’m a workaholic, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything!

 

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

Nature plays a huge role in inspiring me. I’m constantly drawn to textures and colors in everyday life—the way food looks, the patterns on shells, the hues of plants, the movement of water, the roughness of rocks, and the gracefulness of animals. These elements fuel my creativity endlessly. Social media platforms like Instagram are also goldmines for inspiration. I’m obsessed with organizing my saved folders into neat categories so I can quickly access ideas when needed. Whether it’s furniture, art, writing, photography, food, or flowers, I’m always on the hunt for fresh inspiration. Curating these finds gives me immense joy.

FAVORITE PLACE IN THE WORLD?

This is such a tough question! I think about it a lot… If I had to pick, I’d say Bali. It’s become my second home. The warmth of the locals, the incredible cuisine, and the diversity of climates make it incredibly appealing. Northern California, especially Santa Cruz where I currently live, holds a special place in my heart too. Mexico comes close as well, along with Morocco. Each place has its own charm, which makes it hard to choose just one favorite.