On the Fringe
People in Austin, Texas, like to live on the fringe of music, architecture, business and politics. But no one lives more on the fringe of the Austin fashion scene than Kimberly Brown, the founding force behind Austin-based Fringe Hill Design.
“When I started my company, I felt like I was on the fringe of everything. Like I didn’t fit in perfectly anywhere. I was just a little of this and a little of that. It took me a while to accept my style and that it was ok to combine my styles–western, Mexican and bohemian beach – but I just did it. I always just kind of go for it.”
Western, but unique. That’s how Kimberly describes the look of Fringe Hill design. She creates everything from handbags to saddle wallets, zip-up wallets to backpacks, most of which are fringed, but all of which demonstrate a look that combines classic leathercraft with a variety of colorful fabrics from artisans south of the border.
“My bags are designed by me in my workshop,” Kimberly says, “I mix western and bohemian style with Mexican traditional style. They are mix of fringe, cowhide and colorful weaving or embroidery. I like them to
