Born in London in 1967, Debra studied Politics and Economics at the University of Manchester, initially pursuing a career in advertising, before enrolling at Central St Martins School of Art (2002-2005) and creating Artbag.

Raised by an art teacher and an international handbag fittings agent for the luxury brands market, Debra herself was exposed to a unique outlook on art and fashion from a young age, which helped develop her intriguing style. As a student, she caught the eyes of the tutors with her handbag casting. The handbag rapidly became her canvas and the medium to express her unique style and aesthetics of intimacy.