In the new Winter/Holiday campaign, Deschanel mixes her personal style with a modernized collection of classic bags.
Whether you know her as Jess from New Girl or Jovie from Elf, Zooey Deschanel is best known for her unique fashion sense. Deschanel’s style has been described as boho chic, although she identifies more closely with the “Mod” aesthetic popularized in the 1960s. Her classic and sophisticated style shines through her latest campaign with Vera Bradley.
In conversation with Deschanel about fashion, it feels like catching up with an old friend. Her genuine enthusiasm for this brand and its new campaign for more modern, high-end items, is refreshing, signaling an exciting new era for Vera Bradley.
Deschanel was well acquainted with the luxury brand when she started her role as ambassador over the summer. Like many fans of the brand, Deschanel has amassed a collection of Vera Bradley purses, totes and toiletry cases over the years.
Zooey in Miu Miu holding the Taber Dumpling Bag in Purple Metallic Leather
When curating the campaign photo shoot, for the launch of the Winter collection, Deschanel worked closely with her stylist Ib Nasser to find pieces that complemented the bags. The duo utilized styles from Miu Miu, as well as repurposed vintage pieces to align with Deschanel’s aesthetic.
“We had all these vintage looks and we were trying to make, you know, everything like really highlight the bags and kind of show the fun, whimsical quality that all these bags have…” said Deschanel. “But like making the clothes seamless and also kind of reflecting my own style took like a lot of vintage stuff,” said Deschanel.
“We were overdying, completely recutting things, making new dresses out of old fabric, [a] really creative effort on their part, making everything fit really well with all the bags, ” said Deschanel.
Zooey in Miu Miu complimenting her look with the Heritage Bear Crossbody in Goji Berry Red Leather
Creating eye-catching looks was essential for Deschanel and Nasser aiming to spark conversations and empower individuals to “be the star that you are.” Deschanel emphasized, “We want these Vera Bradley bags to be bags that fit into your aesthetic and your lifestyle…”said Deschanel. “And for people to take them, be creative and match them into their closets,” said Deschanel.
When asked about her favorite styles from the collection, Deschanel enthusiastically highlighted three standout pieces. She first chose the Taber Dumpling Bag in Purple Metallic Leather, praising its style and practicality. “It’s just like a great evening bag, but it fits all your stuff,” said Deschanel.
Deschanel’s pick for a staple party accessory went to the Heritage Bear Crossbody in Goji Berry Red Leather. “It’s so cute,” she exclaimed. “I love having things that are super whimsical in my closet,” said Deschanel.
Zooey is wearing Miu Miu while carrying the Original Tote In Bossanova Bold Nylon Twill
“When you go to a party, say you’re going to a holiday party, like, I love having the opportunity to have a piece that people come over,” said Deschanel. “It’s like a conversation starter. Like, when you have something like this, people say, “Oh, I like your bag!,” said Deschanel.
Deschanel noted, “Inevitably, you’re gonna get like 20 people that come over and want to talk to you because of this bag”.
For an organized travel bag, Deschanel loves the Original Tote in Bossanova Bold Nylon Twill. “This is a great travel bag. It’s so cute. The print is amazing,” said Deschanel.
She appreciates Vera Bradley’s emphasis on organization, stating, “One thing I love so much about Vera Bradley is all their bags have a lot of organization, which is not true of a lot of brands,” said Deschanel. “I find them to be very practical for every day and for travel,” said Deschanel.
You can explore the entire Holiday collection and Zooey’s Top 12 Picks on the Vera Bradley website.
