Interview with Sent From Mars

Sent From Mars - Stormtrooper inspired clutch bag with wristlet

Today’s Mos Eisley Marketplace article features Star Wars fan and geek accessory designer Mari Ruiz, of Sent From Mars. Mari has a great range of Star Wars inspired handbags available on Etsy, taking inspiration from classic Star Wars characters to create stylish clutches that make the perfect accessory for any Star Wars outfit.

I absolutely love these bags – especially the clever use of embellishments for details, adding a great little touch of bling. Made from faux leather, the bags feature accents like metal studs, sew-on gems, and even metallic ribbon lining for each wristlet strap! The attention to detail really makes each design stand out, while the size is perfect for holding your essentials.

Sent From Mars - Han Solo inspired clutch bag with wristlet Sent From Mars - Darth Vader inspired clutch bag with wristlet

There are currently 6 clutch designs to choose from – Stormtrooper, Boba Fett, Darth Vader, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, and BB-8 (the BB-8 design is also available as deluxe tote bag). Each clutch measures approximately 9.25″ wide, and  7.5″ high, while the wristlet strap measures approximately 6.5″.

*Update* Sent From Mars now has a website! Shop the full range here – SentFromMars.com

Each clutch is also available as a purse/wristlet combo, with an additional shoulder strap, for only US$10.00 more. Sent From Mars can ship worldwide, which is great! You can check out the full range at her Etsy store, and continue reading below for an interview with Mari, including a hint at an upcoming design –

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Sent From Mars - Luke Skywalker inspired clutch bag with wristlet Sent From Mars - Luke Skywalker inspired clutch bag with wristlet

Sent From Mars - Luke Skywalker inspired clutch bag with wristlet

I recently had the incredible opportunity to ask Mari a few questions about her Star Wars inspired bags, her favourite Star Wars fashion items, and her design inspiration. Read on for the full interview –

How long have you been creating Star Wars bags?

My Star Wars bags made their debut a little over a year ago, beginning with the Han Solo clutch which was actually my very first listing!

Sent From Mars - Han Solo inspired clutch bag with wristlet Sent From Mars - Han Solo inspired clutch bag with wristlet

What inspired you to start designing and creating Star Wars bags?

Bags are a daily necessity for me and so is wearing what I love! I grew up watching Star Wars and have always been inspired by the characters and their entire world. I’ve also been making bags for 10+ years now (which is something I can barely believe…!) so combining these two loves was inevitable!

Sent From Mars - Boba Fett inspired clutch bag with wristlet Sent From Mars - Boba Fett inspired clutch bag with wristlet

What are some of your favourite Star Wars fashion items in your wardrobe or wishlist (can be something you’ve made/plan to make)?

Ooooh this is tough! I’ve seen some awesome fashion items come out lately that are definitely on the wish list! Some of my favorite things I’ve made are a DIY pair of Han Solo boots (these inspired the clutch!) and favorite clutches are the Storm Trooper & Boba Fett ; ). As for my wish list…the Irregular Choice Star Wars shoes are in for the win! (Love those light saber heels!)

Sent From Mars - Stormtrooper inspired clutch bag with wristlet

 

Do you have any particular favourite Star Wars fashion brands (licensed or fan made)?

I absolutely love Jordandené’s collection! Subtle, fun and the perfect incorporation of geeky awesomeness, my favorite Star Wars item being the Han Solo Never Tell Me The Odds t-shirt!

Sent From Mars - BB-8 inspired clutch bag with wristlet Sent From Mars - BB-8 inspired clutch bag with wristlet

Your designs include Darth Vader, BB-8, and Han Solo – do you take inspiration from your favourite characters, or are you more drawn to specific costumes?

For me the inspiration can come from anywhere. Characters are a huge inspiration because of the emotion they bring out, but I am also inspired by environments and objects (one example being a Death Star bag…currently in concept phase!)

Sent From Mars - BB-8 inspired deluxe tote bag Sent From Mars - BB-8 inspired deluxe tote bag Sent From Mars - BB-8 inspired deluxe tote bag

What sort of fabrics and embellishments do you typically use for your Star Wars bags?

Quality is one of the most important factors when it comes to the materials I use and most of my bags are made from a mix of heavy duty vinyl and leather/suede which are perfect fabrics for a durable bag! Being a lover of anything sparkly, all my bags are usually embellished with sew on gems and studs. I also love adding in speciality fabrics like glitter vinyl for accents when I can!

Sent From Mars - Darth Vader inspired clutch bag with wristlet

Can customers commission you for custom bags?

Yes! I love creating custom bags and bringing a new idea to life!

Which is the best way for fans to get in touch with you regarding purchasing an item?

The best way is to visit my Etsy Shop Sent From Mars ; ) Just send me an email and I’ll get back to you asap!

Sent From Mars - Boba Fett inspired clutch bag with wristlet

Where can fans find ‘Sent From Mars’ on social media?

I try to be everywhere!

You can find me on Instagram @sentfrommars

On Snapchat, Facebook, Tumblr, Pinterest and YouTube as SentFromMars

On Twitter @TweetedFromMars

And if your looking for some DIY…on Instructables as MacToTheFuture!

Sent From Mars - Stormtrooper inspired clutch bag with wristlet Sent From Mars - Stormtrooper inspired clutch bag with wristlet

Many thanks to Mari for her time in answering my questions. I absolutely love her range of Star Wars inspired clutches, I can’t narrow down a favourite! Mari takes classic Star Wars character designs and skillfully transforms them into stylish, recognisable handbags, with cleverly incorporated embellishments. A Sent From Mars bag is the perfect compliment for any Star Wars outfit, every fashionable Star Wars fan should own one!

Sent From Mars - Darth Vader inspired clutch bag with wristlet

Photos sourced from and belong to Sent From Mars.