Up-and-coming purse designer adds a sweet touch to OC fashion.

Whenever I encounter a young, local fashion designer, I admire his or her resilience to expand the possibilities of fashion here in Orange County. We may be known for rainbow sandals, beach-bum attire and short skirts in the wintertime, yet there are some big-time fashion gurus who didn't just cruise out of here on their surfboards.

    Don't get me wrong, I'm a fan of surf couture, but it's nice every once in a while to find another side of fashion here. My heart has always gone out to undiscovered fashion designers, and recently I came across a local young woman who is following her passion and trying to make a name for herself.

    Mission Viejo-based purse and accessory designer Leah Leones, 25, launched her line, “Buttertart” in May 2007. A California native and abstract painter, she decided to start her line after living in Vancouver for a while. Leones mixes Vancouver's urban look with California's comfortable and easygoing style. The name “Buttertart” comes from her favorite Canadian pastry.

    Leones creates handmade and unique slouch totes and bangle bags, as well as headbands, in a variety of bold colors. Add a sweet touch to your outfit with a choice of Cookies & Cream, Sugar Plum, Electric Tangerine, Cherry Pie and many other tasty options. Available now are the “Love in Chains” totes, which the customer designs.

You choose the color, chains and bobbles in gold or silver. These “fresh baked handbags and accessories” are sold exclusively online. Prices range from $8 to $75. Visit iheartbuttertart.com and receive a 15% discount on your purchases through this month. The discount code is “valentine.”

    Help me meet the fashion designers of tomorrow. E-mail OCFashionRocks@yahoo.com.