Alexia Durtnell, founder of 'Originals by Alexia' is passionate about textiles and design.

After becomming increasingly disheartened by the lack of originality within high street store clothing ranges, Alexia began to customise her own clothes, striving to have something different. Initially beautiful cardigans for both adults and children were produced, highly embellished with alluring trimmings, vintage buttons and sequins - the popularity of these garments continues to be enormous.

Handbags soon followed, and Alexia tentatively tested the market and again they were extrememly popular, with many of her customers going on to commission their own exclusive handbags.

The success of this Cotswold based business is due to a passion for beautiful handbags with style, individuality and competitive pricing.  The Originals by Alexia boutique in Cirencester is one of the town’s best-kept secrets and it is stocked with an ever-changing range of seasonal bags and accessories. The shop opened in March 2006 and can be found in The Stableyard, Black Jack Street.

Alexia is really keen to give her clients the chance to be different from everyone else, and to let their true personality emerge within a handbag design.