Fashion Week is a great time for companies to shape their image and get exposure to all the key media outlets and fashion VIPs. One brand that knows the value of this coveted week is luggage and handbag brand Kipling, which has joined forces with WALTER to provide handbags for the fashion house's spring 2010 show slated for Tuesday, September 15th at 10am. The show is part of STYLE360, a fashion week platform focused on the contemporary market.

StyleList had the chance to speak with Susan Pickett, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Kipling North America to get her take on the collaboration and the value of being part of fashion week.

StyleList: Why has Kipling decided to be a part of Fashion Week?
Susan Puckett: Kipling has evolved since launching in 1987 and in recent years, the brand has expanded its core focus from luggage and backpacks by creating fashion forward contemporary collections. We saw New York Fashion Week as a natural platform to showcase the fashion collections and couldn't be more excited to be a part of STYLE360.

Kipling Glenda Long Strap Purse, Spring 2010. Photo: Think Public Relations

SL: What does it mean for the brand?
SP: Kipling's debut on the runway with WALTER is a major fashion first for us. This will be the brand's first appearance at New York Fashion Week and we are thrilled to have formed this synergistic partnership with WALTER, one of today's greatest contemporary designers. Kipling will also have an interactive display throughout the four days at STYLE360, which will provide great exposure for us as well as opportunities to get our latest collection in front of fashion editors, celebrities and fashion enthusiasts attending the shows.

SL: Why Walter?
SP: When seeking a perfect partner for Fashion Week, Walter [Baker, CEO and Creative Director of WALTER] was at the top of the list. Kipling and Walter are both known for their day-to-night versatility and chic designs, as well as a cult following of it-girl celebrities and fashionistas.

SL: What is the inspiration for spring2010?
SP: Both companies, Kipling and WALTER, share a similar color palette for Spring 2010 with hues of aqua blue, vibrant pastels, fresh neutrals and edgy metallics. Both collections are very feminine yet sophisticated and functional. These are clothes and handbags that will carry you from work to the office, to a night out on the town in comfort and in style.

SL: How is the famous monkey incorporated into the latest collection?
SP: The Kipling monkey is a symbol of fun and adventure, and has naturally become the Kipling brand's mascot. As Kipling evolves, so does the monkey. Every collection has a unique monkey and there are definitely some cool new variations of the monkey for Spring 2010. You'll have to wait and see!