Ila Allen is an Evanston-based designer and maker behind Ila Allen Designs. She creates one-of-a-kind handbags using a variety of materials, including vegan leather, cork, and other textured fabrics. By combining different colors and physical textures, Ila ensures that no two bags are exactly alike. Every piece is handmade by Ila rather than produced in a factory or manufacturing environment. Her work explores the possibilities of creating stylish, high-quality accessories from materials beyond traditional animal leather, with an emphasis on thoughtful sourcing, quality, and creativity.