It's in the bag, Mum

The Bay of Plenty TImes Weekend lifestyle magazine indulge caught up with April Walker the day after son Stan performed at the inaugural SummerFest concert in Tauranga

Having a son who is still enjoying chart-topping success after being crowned Australian Idol more than two years ago would be enough to fulfil many mothers' dreams. But April Walker - that's Stan's mum - is pursuing a dream all of her own in the fashion world, launching a new range of handbags and accessories next month.

"I have always been a bag freak. I love bags that are stylish but also a little bit different. And they have to be big enough to hold what you need. Funky and chunky is how I like my bags, and that is how I've designed them."

There are 10 bags in the initial launch range. All are leather with specially designed features, zips and labels bearing the April Walker logo. Colours range from tans and neutrals, to striking mustard, orange and cobalt blue. There is even a unisex bag in the range. "Yes, Stan does use it. It is really more common to see men with bags these days, particularly in Melbourne. Stan carries his phone and his lollies in there - for his voice."

At the bag launch in Melbourne in March, Stan will sing and is happy to support his mum's venture.

In August, April is coming to New Zealand to launch the range here. "I am thinking Auckland, but I would like to come to Tauranga, too. It depends where the interest is. I think Tauranga has certainly changed since I lived here, with more fashion boutiques."

The bags will initially be sold online but April is already fielding inquiries from interested boutiques, in Australia and New Zealand.