Archive for the ‘Emerging Designers’ Category

Interview: Colombian Designer Janey Cochet for Amazonia Zoe

By | Friday January 11th, 2013 | 08:00 am | Comments

Company/Designer Name: Amazonia Zoe/Janey Cochet

(Amazonia = our source is the amazon rain forest) Zoe = Respect for the last indigenous tribe discovered in Brazil recently called tribe Zoe. Zoe also means something small = Small Brand

The brand also promote amazon forest, showing to the world what we have in Amazon forest and people abroad don’t know, for instance, nowadays we have international surf competition in Amazon river

Amazonia Zoe natural fashion is a sort of interaction fashion and nature. “La Conscience”

Why did you join Noblivity®?

Noblivity contacted us and made their proposal. We saw it as an awesome opportunity. Joining Noblivity is like taking part in a community, a route that we believe is good for our business, a help that can guarantee a better deal for our small brands.

Designer Background Summary:

How did you get started?

I started making prints for summer clothing in name of “Amazon rain forest”. I started to approaching the maximum from nature itself. I just love searching and creating fashion, dressing and accessorizing. I really have fun playing with those issues. Amazonia Zoe brand was a consequence of it.

How would you describe your design style, design signature and who is your targeted customer?

Amazonia Zoe style is hippie, zen, Boho Chic, from time to time urban. The products are destined to conscious clients, who wan to wear something unusual, fashion and ecological.

What inspires you?

“Amazon rain forest “ and the Brazilian urban life style

What obstacles did you have to overcome to get to where you are?

Get to know the Amazon source and learn how to choose element for nature was a challenge. For each collection I have to spend some days into the forest until gets my inspiration. Today the Brazilian Amazon forest is my second home, they are our collection source. I needed to learn to use it in a responsible way. Building up projects with the local community also was an obstacle, they need to participate in an active way, they are also responsible for Amazonia Zoe collection.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

Experience and time helped a lot, or should I say the other way around?

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

Recognition. It really great when a positive feedback from fashion magazine. Here in France when the topic is: fashion and nature or when nature comes into fashion, Amazonia Zoe is always invited. Its really amazing

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far?

We always approached from nature, so “natural fashion” is our slogan. we cant change otherwise It wont reflects our work. I think we are not ready to change, time will lead us.

What’s next for your brand?

We work only with summer clothing, so we are still working on it, but I may say that “Crochet” is a sort of art that is disappearing in Brazil. So we decided to give to the “artisans” our support and create clothing with crochet, in organic cotton.

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

Publicity, marketing and a fashion parade

What are the best and worst things about bringing a product to market?

Sometimes size may be a problem. Size in Brazil are still limited 36- 40. USA grade: 0 – 10 . Sometimes clients asks for size 14,16 and it embarrassed me as we are not ready to create something at that size.

Why not? I may say that we create summer clothing to sell into the Brazilian market, we have more then 250 thousand beachwear industries in Brazil and if you don’t buy at the right time, (September until January) you wont find anything in our stock. So then international market is secondary also we wont sell big size in Brazil.

Describe your typical day?

Busy, surrounded of people, nature, phone calls, clothing, prints, colors but a productive day.

What is your philosophy of life?

“My whole life has been guided by pleasure”

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

An idea leads to another, so even that could do it over again it would be the same, this is the greatest advantage of working with nature it self, they say the rules, you just follow it

When will you know you have made it?

When our select Brazilian’s Indians tribe recognizes their style in our work, then it is made.

 

Interview: South African Duo Lara and Yoriko for Wild Fig Clothing

By | Thursday January 10th, 2013 | 07:00 am | Comments

Company/Designer Name: Wild Fig/Lara Hunt and Yoriko Alty

Designer Background Summary:

How did you get started?

After completing their diplomas Lara Hunt and Yoriko Alty individually started their own labels but soon realized that they would get much further if they joined forces. Wild Fig was launched in 2007 and has grown from strength to strength.

Why did you join Noblivity®?

Considering that the South African market is very small Noblivity offers the perfect opportunity for Wild Fig to explore the American and European markets.

How would you describe your design style, design signature and who is your targeted customer?

We combine classic design with contemporary feminine design details to clothe women aged 16 – 35 who love to dress up for an occasion.

What inspires you?

Women who embrace femininity

What obstacles did you have to overcome to get to where you are?

Developing a product that is competitive whilst still supporting our South African economy.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

Creating a unique style and catering to a niche higher end market

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

Taking part in Joburg Fashion Week 2010 and 2011

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far?

Learning to design to a budget and creating a product that will appeal to a broader market.

What’s next for your brand?

Expanding into the American and European market

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

Television advertisements

What are the best and worst things about bringing a product to market?

Best – Seeing fabulously dressed women that you don’t know wearing your label

Worst – Working according to a budget

Describe your typical day?

A juggling act between work and our children

What is your philosophy of life?

Trying to keep thing simple in spite of the fact that everything in life is complicated.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

Nothing

When will you know you have made it?

Once the average women in the street know the Wild Fig label and aspires to own it

 

 

Great Gift Idea! Clever Magnet Keepsakes New from Kat n’ Drew…

By | Wednesday January 9th, 2013 | 05:16 pm | Comments

There’s over 1000 to choose from in so many colors. Magnet Keepsakes with clever sayings NEW from Kat n’ Drew!  Great gifts for all occasions.

Interview: Chicago Apparel Designer Kate Coxworth for Kate Boggiano

By | Wednesday January 9th, 2013 | 07:00 am | Comments

Company/Designer Name: Kate Boggiano, LLC/Kate Coxworth

Designer Background Summary:

How did you get started?
It seems to me that you’re either born with the love for fashion or you are not-it’s almost a genetic malady of some sorts so the exact starting point for me is a little fuzzy! Like most designers, I got started “patterning” (I use that word lightly) and making my own garments for all sorts of horribly embarrassing social situations at a VERY young age (many of these outfits I still have!). I smartened up when first attending college and convinced myself fashion was just a hobby and being a fashion designer was not a career. A couple years and some tough inner dialogue later, I switched majors from pre-med/biology to an independent major in fashion design at Indiana University. Post college, I made the NYC move and worked for Polo Ralph Lauren as a technical designer then a product merchant where I learned invaluable things about all aspect of the fashion business. In 2006, I moved back to Chicago (my hometown) and started Kate Boggiano and the rest is history!

Why did you join Noblivity?
I joined Noblivity because I think it is a great way to reach out to stores and ultimately customers that I wouldn’t normally have access to.

How would you describe your design style, design signature and who is your targeted customer?
I like to think that Kate Boggiano are classic pieces with a twist. There are beautiful, well made (USA I might add) garments that will have as much relevance to your life tomorrow as they will 5 years from now. Our customers are women who like to purchase things that are unique and beautiful and rare. We cater to the professional woman since our style is a little more dressy than some of the causal knitwear/lifestyle brands that are popular today.

What inspires you?
I am inspired by making the best blouses and dresses that money can buy. I look at what is selling from season to season and try to identify what makes it strong or weak and tweak from there. What obstacles did you have to overcome to get to where you are? There are too many to even think about and they never seem like obstacles until looking back – just unpleasant things that you have to go to in order to accomplish what you want to accomplish.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?
Hard work, perseverance, and the open mind to look at things differently. What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far? I can’t name a single greatest moment. Each season we have goals and when these are met, it’s a great feeling!

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far?
The quality and sophistication of the design continues to elevate ever season so that’s always rewarding to see. What’s next for your brand? We will keep improving our manufacturing, customer service, and operations to make sure that things run as smoothly as possible.

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?
That’s too dangerous to even think about! I try to only think about maintaining profitability and growing the business! What are the best and worst things about bringing a product to market? Reorders are the greatest and having vendors that do not share our attitude of providing the best product for the best price in the quickest most efficient manner is my least favorite part.

Describe your typical day?
There is no typical day in this industry!

What is your philosophy of life?
Love what you do, work hard, keep an open mind, treat everyone fairly and the good stuff will come in time!

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?
Again, the list is WAY too long to go through and explain. I’ve done some incredibly silly things!

When will you know you have made it?
When I see someone walking down the street in a Kate Boggiano piece of clothing and I don’t know them.

 

 

Interview: Contemporary Jewerly Designer Alpa Patel

By | Tuesday January 8th, 2013 | 04:46 pm | Comments

Company/Designer Name: Alpa Patel

Designer Background Summary:

How did you get started?

I started with an obsession in old things; the patina of old jewellery, the fluid organic finishes of the old pieces. I used to take old pieces apart and reassemble them differently and it sparked a creative idea in me.

Why did you join Noblivity®?

It’s a beautiful platform. After I was contacted by Noblivity I found I liked its allegiance to emerging designers and brands. It’s a well-lit road to starting out in a new market.

How would you describe your design style, design signature and who is your targeted customer?

My design style and signature is in using left-of-centre components and highly conceived designs that are never repeated. I believe in combining soft clarity and bedazzlement to target the strong, independent woman who has an appreciation of heritage and individualism.

What inspires you? My African heritage, vintage hardware, paddle steamers; the idea that the old can be reworked and reincarnated into the popular culture of any generation. I’m always speeding along in my mind, making notes, sketching and praying to see more.

What obstacles did you have to overcome to get to where you are? Getting over the psychological barrier of coming from Africa, where nothing is wasted if it can be helped and resources are limited to Australia, largely composed of a throwaway lifestyle. Changing ideas about re-usability and waste. I think designers can be notoriously wasteful if they don’t take care.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way? Confidence, a whole lot of practice and self-belief.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far? Finally seeing my finished product on the market; selling my pieces and receiving critical acclaim from people in the industry.

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far? Growing my materials base; seeking out older and more unique components. My designs have gotten heavier, more complex and grander in scale.

What’s next for your brand? Showcasing at the SFW 2011 in Tanzania for the second time; the imminent release of my catalogue and look book which will include a sneak preview of my 2012 collection.

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand? I would pack my bags and move to Paris and open a shop in Galleries Lafayette.

What are the best and worst things about bringing a product to market? It’s a proud moment when I can say “This is mine; I made this”. You can carry on at home and in your own mind as much as you like, but it’s a special day when you can come to the market and make a declaration. And then waiting for the response is one of the worst moments of my life. It’s a huge leap of faith in what is a fickle industry.

Describe your typical day? My typical day starts with a brisk walk. I set myself some tasks for the day which include answering emails, researching new ideas, experimenting with different materials and medium. I spend a lot of time troubleshooting a certain component. I read a lot of blogs and magazines for inspiration then go out for a coffee or chips and gravy. Sometimes I do a bit of web travel; I visit countries on the web and have a great time. I love what I do.

What is your philosophy of life? Don’t be distrac….wow that’s a nice doorknob!

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? I would not change anything at all.  I believe that this is my time so here I am giving it my very best.

When will you know you have made it? If making it means it’s the end of the road, then I’m going to just enjoy the ride for now. I’ll probably be too engrossed to notice.

 

 

 

Interview: Kate Janeczko Introduces Twotara Reversible Childrens Apparel

By | Tuesday January 8th, 2013 | 09:26 am | Comments

Company/Designer Name: Twotara/Kate Janeczko, President

Designer Background Summary:

How did you get started?

I had been to one-too-many baby showers for friends that were keeping the sex of their baby a surprise until birth. It was yellow and green ad nauseam! It was the most anti-climactic gift to buy, to give, to receive…and I would argue the baby’s didn’t even particularly enjoy wearing the yellow and green! I thought there had to be a better option.

I had a “light bulb” idea to create a garment that could be both pink AND blue…and Twotara’s reversible product line was born. It was truly a matter of putting one foot in front of the other, and the idea eventually materialized into a product, which is now on its way to store shelves.

Why did you join Noblivity®?

Prior to joining Noblivity, all of my sales were face-to-face with me and the potential buyers…and, I could only be in one place at one time! By joining Noblivity, I was able to tap into the virtual selling model, putting me “face to face” with thousands of buyers all at once. The closest thing I could do to cloning myself, so it was a no-brainer.

How would you describe your design style, design signature and who is your targeted customer?

First of all, my targeted customer is the expectant mom that thinks like I do…

Loves surprises, but still a “Type A” planner! What an enigma! This is the mom that won’t give in to her “Type A” nature and ruin what is the truest surprise on earth! I cannot imagine what it must be like to give birth and be told “Meet your son or daughter” for the first time while looking into their eyes. That being said…the planner in me would want cute clothes for both a boy and girl. Short of buying 2 complete wardrobes, Twotara’s line is a perfect fit! The designs are whimsical yet sophisticated, and above all practical!

What inspires you?

People inspire me. (There are so many amazing success stories out there!

So do motivational quotes. And song lyrics.

Somehow I can find whatever I am looking for in the right quote. Whether I need motivation, or validation, somebody out there (wiser than me) has said just the right thing.

What obstacles did you have to overcome to get to where you are?

I have a degree in Broadcast Journalism, and sales experience in the insurance industry…

I knew NOTHING about manufacturing! I don’t sew, and I don’t have any babies! There was a lot to learn! I didn’t even know what I didn’t know when I got started. How do you describe how cotton feels to somebody that doesn’t speak English? Or what exact shade of pink you want your garments to be? (Things Google taught me: Colors are described using the universal language of the Pantone Matching System. Thank you Google!)

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

I just kept asking questions, and finding answers. I apparently never outgrew my “why?” phase from when I was 2 years old! I would ask Google questions, I would network and ask other entrepreneurs questions, I would ask my boyfriend questions, I would ask strangers questions, I would ask the mailman questions, I would ask my mom questions, I would ask….you get the picture!

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

The response that my line has gotten from the boutique community has truly exceeded my expectations! Of course I believed in my product, and I saw a need for something other than yellow and green…

But when the buyers began supporting it, I knew I was onto something! That was the best feeling! While I will never forget my first sale (my face literally hurt from smiling so big!!), each subsequent sale has been a rush! It feels like a back-to-back explosion of “greatest moments”. All of the hard work I have put into this is validated with each sale, and I continue to pick up momentum!

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far?

I have made very few changes up to this point (with the exception of sizing tweaks). The product exists in the same form I had envisioned it from the very beginning. I knew it would be a combination of circles and stripes, and I pictured the rompers and footies with pockets on the butt!

However…there are many changes coming, with additional pattern options and new garments….so stay tuned!

What’s next for your brand? Line extensions…more patterns, more products….Stay tuned!

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

I would hire a team of marketing and public relations professionals that could spend their time focusing on introducing my product to the world! If they had a direct line to The Today Show or Oprah, that wouldn’t hurt! In the meantime, I will have to wear that “hat” too.

What are the best and worst things about bringing a product to market?

The best: It’s empowering to see something through from bar napkin to barcode! So many people have the “back of the napkin” idea, but it takes courage and determination to see it through. I am very proud of myself! It’s amazing to look back and see how far I have come.

The worst: Being patient. This has been sooooo hard for me!! It took a full year of trial and error to get my product out of my head, and into my hands. With each new manufacturer providing a sample of their work and so many instances of high hopes being crushed with poorly constructed bad quality samples…and then having to start all over again! I simply refused to settle, and somehow someway found the patience to keep at it until the line matched my vision for it.

Describe your typical day?

Depends on what hat I am wearing that day. Am I wearing my “designer” hat, my “sales” hat, my “marketing” hat, or my ‘operations” hat? I would say that the only thing “typical” about my days is that they start early, and they end late. And for the first time in my life, I love getting up and getting started on my work day! Some days feel crazier than others. Sometimes I have to wear all 4 hats at once, and it feels chaotic. But I even love those days! What is your philosophy of life? There is a magnet hanging on my refrigerator that I gave to my boyfriend a few Christmases ago, it reads:

What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?

That question allows you to imagine your dream life, because it eliminates the fear of failure. Combine the answer to that question with my underlying belief that all of us can BE, DO and HAVE whatever we want in life. That combination is unstoppable. First you decide what your dream life is, and then you create it….there is no need to fear failure if we can all have whatever we want!

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I always struggle answering these types of questions, because the choices I have made up to this point, have gotten me to where I am today….and I like where I have ended up! Sure I have made a few mistakes along the way, but they have allowed me to grow. I swear my mistakes and setbacks have continually turned out to be “blessings in disguise”.

When will you know you have made it?

At times during this journey when I would need a little motivation or inspiration I would ride my bike on Chicago’s lakefront. I would stop along the path in front of a yacht called “Perseverance 2” and basically just stare…

When my boat is docked by theirs, I’ll know I made it! Maybe I’ll call mine “Ditto” with an arrow pointing to Perseverance 2!

 

 

Interview: Israeli Contemporary Geometric Jewelry Designer Yael Herman

By | Sunday January 6th, 2013 | 12:01 pm | Comments

Company/Designer Name: YAEL HERMAN – Jewelry/Yael Herman

Designer Background Summary:

I am a jewelry maker for the last 30 years.  I grow from a goldsmith to a modern designer, creating jewelry from gold silver stainless steel plastic etc. using traditional craftsmanship and advanced technology.

Why did you join Noblivity®?

I think it is a great idea, bringing the individual voice to be heard and seen, to make the world more diverse and interesting.

How did you get started?

After finishing my basic jewelry making education and giving birth to my younger daughter,  I opened my work shop with a ceramic artist and a good friend, Nilly Landao.  Our first intention was to have a place of our own, to be able to drink coffee and do our thing peacefully. Our place was in an ally of a side road in the center of our home town.  It was a humble beginning which make it possible for me to grow slowly, to find my inner voice.

How would you describe your design style, design signature and who is your targeted customer?

I design contemporary geometric jewelry for the sophisticated mature woman.

What inspires you?

Everything!

What obstacles did you have to overcome to get to where you are?

I was always having my own place so I could present my work as I wish, but be a creator and running a gallery is very demanding.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

There is time for everything, but the focus and the intensity shifts from creating my designs and everything else.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

The present time the echo and recognition is beyond my expectation.

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far?

Hope to change all the time with every collection with every new idea.

What’s next for your brand?

SHOES!

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

The same! have to grow slowly not to lose my rhythm and integrity.

What are the best and worst things about bringing a product to market?

The best is the opportunity to be seen, the worst is having to do all the work beside making jewelry specially write about it!

Describe your typical day?

There isn’t any typical day!

What is your philosophy of life?

Not to lose the passion for what I do.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

Have none.

When will you know you have made it?

 

When I will do the next collection..

 

 

Interview: South African Jewelry Designer Vicky Fenner for Joya

By | Friday January 4th, 2013 | 10:07 am | Comments

Company/Designer Name: Joya Collection/Vicky Fenner

How did you get started?

My Mother, Daphne, and I started Joya 2 years ago. I had always been interested in jewelry design and started to make some pieces myself whilst studying at University, selling to local shops. She saw the potential and when I had finished my degree offered to back me with the setting up of Joya Collection. We are both very creative people and it seemed like a natural progression to take something we love doing and make a career out of it. In addition, my Father is an accountant so he was there in the background to look after the purse strings.

Why did you join Noblivity®?

We had received a lot of interest in Joya pieces from individuals in USA through magazine articles etc., mainly with requests for details of local stockists where the Joya range could be seen but being based in South Africa we were finding it difficult to build a distributor network in USA. When Noblivity contacted us, it seemed like this could be the answer to our prayers.

Who is your brands targeted customer and how do you know it’s the right target?

Joya is aimed at the individual who wants to own a piece handcrafted jewellery …not something mass produced … that can be worn everyday and that has a hint of Africa in the design and colours. The brand is inspired by the colour, texture and energy of Africa and we find that people from across the world are attracted to that enchanting combination.

What are consumers saying about your brand?

They love the quality of our product. Everything is handmade in our workshop, and nothing leaves the studio without being personally checked. They think our brand is vibrant and colorful, harnessing the energy of Africa.

What are retailers saying about your brand?

Retailers love the personal service they get when working with us. We strive to make our products as easy for them to sell as possible, so on our swing tags we tell the story of Joya and how each item is handmade. We also offer beautiful packaging and are in the process of offering display materials too. They say that the ordering process is efficient and they like our flexibility as we are often asked to tailor products to the retailer’s needs.

What obstacles did you have to overcome to bring your product to market?

We are a bit isolated here in South Africa and although we quickly achieved sales in our home market, we found it difficult initially to get the brand out into the international market. Also, finding reliable suppliers of raw materials locally was a challenge so we had to look further afield for some of our supplies.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

With the boom of online shopping, fashion blogs and by using a good PR Company, we gradually attracted the attention of distributors in Countries such as UK, Turkey, Chile, Ibiza, etc. which created a “snowball effect”, with more following in quick succession. A big break for us was with the luxury hotel group One & Only, as they exposed us to the wider international market by stocking us in their hotel boutiques in Mexico, Mauritius, Dubai, Maldives and Cape Town, with clients from all over the world. With the sourcing of supplies, we have become experts at finding whatever we need on the Internet. 

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

I think our greatest moment has been when we got reorders from existing distributors. It is relatively easy to get a retailer to make an initial ‘sample’ order, but getting them to reorder your goods shows they have had success with your brand and they believe I your products. Apart from that, I have got a huge buzz from seeing our designs in leading fashion magazines like Marie Claire, Elle, Tattler, Gazia and online on multiple blogs including that of the British Vogue jewellery editor! We also love seeing our pieces worn by celebrities and models such as Lara Stone, Candice Swanepoel and Dominique Piek.

What’s next for your brand?

We want to break into some new markets, like the USA where we believe there would be a strong interest in Joya. I would also like to develop our accessory range including scarves and handbag which we have recently launched in South Africa and have received a very positive feedback so far.

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

I would like to put Joya “concept stores” into some of the top cities in the world.

Where are you promoting your brand?

We have a full time PR agent now in Cape Town and we got a lot of exposure in the press here, Glamour, Grazia, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire to name a few of the regular ones. We also are working on launching our new website which we will promote through SEO and PPC.

Getting a product into the stores takes time, patience and perseverance. How do you know you have what it takes?

We believe in our brand so strongly that we know eventually we it will get the recognition it deserves, it just takes time. It’s the snowball effect as mentioned earlier, it happens bit by bit and as long as we keep the quality of products as high as possible, new designs being introduced and our customer service top notch, then there is no reason we shouldn’t succeed.

What is your philosophy of life?

You get out of life what you put into it …. and hard work and perseverance brings its own rewards.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

Not much! It’s been a fantastic learning curve and every mistake is a lesson. Of course there are a few things I shouldn’t have ordered, a few products that didn’t turn out to be a success but I wouldn’t do it any differently as then I wouldn’t have learnt that lesson!

What are the three things a retailer should know about your brand that will help them get their margin?

African influenced designs and colours, handcrafted by local skilled artisans, using quality materials.

 

Interview: American Designer Duo Ashley & Shannon Logsdon for DOLMA Jewelry

By | Thursday January 3rd, 2013 | 10:46 am | Comments

Company/Designer Name: Dolma Jewelry/Ashley & Shannon Logsdon

How did you get started?

Our founder and my sister, Ashley Logsdon, lived in China in college. I went to visit her, and while we were there, we both fell in love with pearls. We were amazed by the variety in size, shape, and color. We met with a prestigious pearl vendor that introduced us o the market and showed us the pearl farms. At this point we knew what we wanted to do, to share our love and passion for pearls with others. We both had backgrounds in business and art, and decided to launch a contemporary pearl jewelry line in 2007. We travel to China twice a year to pick our pearls and design new collections!

Why did you join Noblivity®?

I believe Noblivity is the future of the wholesale/retail market. I wanted to introduce my line to new clients all over the world; Noblivity seemed like the best place to do that.

Who is your brands targeted customer and how do you know it’s the right target?

Our brands targeted customer are women in the age range of 35 to 65, looking to add jewelry to their wardrobe that proves to be day to night, casual and classy. These same women may also be looking for the perfect gift for their children, grandchildren, or brides and bridesmaids!

This is the right target as our price range, our style, and concept seems to fit this clientele.

What are consumers saying about your brand?

Consumers love dolma’s quality at an exceptional price. They are impressed with our twist on a classic gemstone and love our innovative designs.

What are retailers saying about your brand?

Most of our stores are impressed with our customer service, as we will fix anything and allow exchanges whenever the retailer would like. New retailers are always happy they have found a pearl jewelry company that is pushing the envelope, offering colored pearls and crazy shaped pearls!

What obstacles did you have to overcome to bring your product to market?

When we started we were young. I was 22 and Ashley was 24. Everyone told us to work for someone else, to follow our dream when we were older.

Another obstacle was that we were reinventing the meaning of pearl jewelry, not necessarily an easy task for the world’s most ancient gemstone. This meant we were told no several times in our first couple of years.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

As young entrepreneurs, we tried to only have mentors who believed in what we were doing. We knew that a lot of people would not understand why we would start the company so early, so we surrounded ourselves with fellow entrepreneurs, this helped us stay focused and do what we love.

We learned that the more “no’s” you get, the better any “yes” is. We took every no and turned it in to a positive, growing experience for the company. We also began to realize, that sometimes a no was better than a yes- it meant we had to go back to the drawing board and figure out what went wrong and correct it.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

Besides Noblivity?!

Our company was featured on CNN in 2008 as a small business that has found success in a rough economy. This was a wonderful moment for us.

What’s next for your brand?

We would love to have an athletic pearl line. My sister and I share a passion for sports, wearing pearls while running really seems like the best of both worlds!

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

Definitely to be the only company with any commercials during the Super Bowl. Oh, and maybe have Kate Middleton where a different dolma piece every day!

Where are you promoting your brand?

Currently we promote our bran through our online web store, our Face book page, twitter and Pinterest accounts, and our brick and mortar boutiques.

Getting a product into the stores takes time, patience and perseverance. How do you know you have what it takes?

I’ve seen how successful dolma can be in the right store. Our product is unique, but still maintains the tradition behind the pearl. dolma teaches every woman that there is a pearl girl inside of her!

Along with our jewelry, exchanges, repairs, and complimentary dolma packaging and tags .

What is your philosophy of life?

Coco Chanel is a huge inspiration for us as women. I always remember this quote as I go about my day-to-day life

“”Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably and they remember the woman.”

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I wouldn’t do anything differently. We would not be where we are today without all of our mistakes and bumps in the road.

What are the three things a retailer should know about your brand that will help them get their margin?

1. All of our pearls are freshwater pearls that come from the lakes outside of Shanghai. All the pearls are real!

2. My sister and I hand pick the pearls and do the designing for most of the collection, therefore most pieces are unique to dolma jewelry.

3. Never be hesitant about putting variety in to an order, you always have the option to exchange! See what items are selling for you and exchange the others, whenever you would like!

 

Interview: Sustainable Chicago Shirt Maker Daniel Bernardo & Glass House

By | Tuesday January 1st, 2013 | 11:07 am | Comments

Company/Designer Name:  Glass House/Daniel Bernardo

Glass House makes form-fitting, high-quality, for work and play, men’s button up dress shirts, with more intentions than simply dressing men well. We focus on a trim fitting silhouette, while using the most sustainably relevant and technologically sound fabrics available to date, that look and feel great. All this, with a focus on local manufacturing and U.S.-based vendors, suppliers, & distributors.

Why did you join Noblivity®?

It’s an exciting way to reach retailers that may never get to see the product at a trade show, and allows for possibilities of expanding to markets that may not be exactly in our scope and opens that bridge of opportunity.

How did you get started?

Having always been a slim man, I was never able to find great fitting shirts that flattered my slim body and gave the silhouette I was looking for. Also, being in the Green Development sector for many years, it was the only option for how the business would be run and how the shirts would be made. So seeing the need to fill this void was what created the vision.

Who is your brands targeted customer and how do you know it’s the right target?

Our target market is what I call the “fit generation.” This encompasses well educated and traveled, young professionals in major urban areas, self-aware and stylish, exercises routinely and cares about being fit and healthy. Having lived in many major cities around the USA, the urban man has a consciousness and is well educated and would prefer to have high-quality garments, rather than a large amount of mediocre garments. When it comes to classic menswear, men keep it simple, and we are offering a simple solution to ill-fitting shirts.

What are consumers saying about your brand?

They love the fit! Which is our goal. People enjoy the small and subtle quality details that are not obvious, but show that the shirt will last.

What are retailers saying about your brand?

Retailers enjoy the feel and styling of our shirts. Some align themselves with the same ethos and philosophies in which we hold, which makes a great selling point for certain clientele.

What obstacles did you have to overcome to bring your product to market?

Learning the fashion industry on the production and back end sides have been the largest and most challenging obstacles. Also, getting the right fit was a long process, because we want our measurements to be spot on. Finding the right manufacturer to make the quality that we want as well has been a hurdle, too, because that’s one of our key elements in the shirts, the high quality.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

Learning as I went and talking with people in the industry supported getting over these obstacles. I always look to learn more and educate myself, so it’s part of my natural entrepreneurial process. I’m an experiential learner, I learn by doing.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

The greatest moment thus far has been when we distributed a trial run of shirts in the Spring 2012. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive and the support was huge, and through that whole process we knew we had a great product that people would love and enjoy for a long time.

What’s next for your brand?

What’s next for Glass House shirtmaker is sales. We are working diligently to slowly build relationships with shop owners and buyers to show them we are an authentic brand, looking to build long-term relationships and a solid customer base.

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

Right now, we’d market our philosophies along side our garments to show we are much more than a shirt company, but not as a do-gooder brand, but a company that considers the consequences of every step in the process and wants to make it the best experience anyone can have.

Where are you promoting your brand?

We are on most forms of social media (Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, Pinterest, etc). We are also working with bloggers and writers to share their experiences of the brand, in hopes to get some honest write ups on what we do.

Getting a product into the stores takes time, patience and perseverance. How do you know you have what it takes?

We’ve been asked, “what’s your deadline for success?” Our response, “There is no deadline. We will continue to grow and expand and are open to feedback.” So, there is no deadline for us, we will continue to progress and be innovative. And we believe we have an honest product, which everyone wants.

What is your philosophy of life?

We believe everyday is about making conscious steps toward creating the most extraordinary life. Expressing our authentic self is a gift and should be conveyed passionately. In life, it’s not only about what we do, but who we are.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

As cliche as it might be, we wouldn’t do anything differently. The past is the past, so anything we would change, we can always change it now.

What are the three things a retailer should know about your brand that will help them get their margin?

Selling points are the fit and feel, ethos comes secondary.

We can deliver more shirts if needed in 4-5 weeks.

Request that the client try it on. The shirt will sell itself.

 

Interview: Skin Care Environmentalist Anna Beekman and RAW Materials

By | Monday December 31st, 2012 | 01:10 pm | Comments

Company/Designer Name:  RAW Materials – Skin Care/Anna Beekman

How did you get started?

I started making personal care products about 4 decades ago while in my youth. I am from a large family and the oldest child from a group of eleven. Money was tight and if I desired anything beyond a bar of soap or a bottle of shampoo, I had to make it myself and thus I did. My first project, at the age of 12, was a tiny bottle of perfume. About 10 years ago, I decided to pursue my dreams and therefore created a woman’s brand that morphed into a men’s line called Raw Materials. I have 6 brothers, many uncles and an unlimited resource of cousins and friends that helped guide me towards this redefined focus with men products.  I find that the male market is lacking in product choices, especially in truly, natural formulations featuring only plant-derived ingredients.

Today, I reside on a beautiful Pennsylvania ranch with my fiancé (Tim), many pets, chickens and cows. Tim is a dairy and cattle farmer specializing in natural dairy products, and grass-fed cattle for Whole Foods Market and many other natural stores.  Every day, my work and personal activities focus towards doing what is best for our environment, developing natural products, and taking care of our land and animals.

Why did you join Noblivity®? 

Noblivity® connects boutique companies, start-ups and designers directly with retailers and buyers. With their programs, I can promote products, build brand awareness and develop beneficial relationships that might not have occurred without Noblivity’s support and tools.  Their customer support and willingness to help companies grow is fabulous.

Who is your brands targeted customer and how do you know it’s the right target?

The Raw Materials target market is men, with women as a secondary market. Our brand’s personality is “rugged yet refined” and is designed to attract a variety of consumers ranging from the rugged outdoors-man, athletic and extreme sports enthusiasts, to the metro-sexual. The name Raw Materials supports our natural, unaltered ingredient story by bringing to mind commonly used raw materials for traditionally “manly pursuits” such as sports, manufacturing and construction.

What are consumers saying about your brand?

Kiko in NYC (Skin Grit review) – “BEST exfoliant  I have come across. I have VERY sensitive skin and up until recently, I could only use Clinique for my skincare.

 

Dan in IL (Steel Cut Soap Review) – “Once you try this soap, no others will do! You feel clean and fresh, with the scent being addictive!!”

 

Scott in Bellevue, WA (Sport Fix Spray) – “It seriously          BLOCKS odor…..and this stuff LASTS.”

 

Cindy from Chicago (Sport Fix Spray) – “I use this product every day. Best personal hygiene product I have every used.”

 

Chris at Amazon (Skin Grit) – Great product! Leaves my skin feeling fresh and smooth. I’d definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good morning wake up!

 

Swimmers (Sport Fix Soap) – using our product to remove chlorine smell from skin.

 

Athletes  (Sport Fix Spray) – are using before a workout and after a workout to neutralize odors on contact.

 

Skin Grit – our most popular product with men and women. Addictive.

 

Extreme Shave Cream – free of fragrance and is 100% natural. Men that have issues with ingrown hairs are using our shave cream to reduce skin irritations from shaving.


What are retailers saying about your brand?

My focus is to improve our customers’ outer well-being with truly natural, eco-friendly, sustainable products that are made in the USA. We are passionate about creating natural solutions that delight customers and have minimal environmental impact.

“Great products with amazing packaging.” Our brand identity really stands out from other products. Our formulations are premium, thus reorders are high. Many of our retailers order extra products for their team’s own personal use and purchase. We get high reviews from our retail customers about our professionalism and customer support.
Our retailer’s success is vital to our growth and customer satisfaction.

What obstacles did you have to overcome to bring your product to market?

Formulating our products can take over 3 years from concept to final market launch. Getting the right blend of extracts, oils and active ingredients at the correct concentration with similar textures, aromas and skin feel of premium products can be difficult when you only use natural ingredients.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

With passion and determination. I never give up and keep on trying until we realize our goals. We continuously analyze and make refinements and believe that determination and honest efforts yield results that benefit customers and partners.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

I have many great moments including our first customer, first retailer and now with the growing demand for the products at Whole Foods Market. I also have a personal and favorite memory when my son became excited about my business. On this day, he found Raw Materials products at his friend’s home, which was purchased from a local store. His friend didn’t realize the connection my son had with Raw Materials. At that moment, he realized this business was beyond a website for family and friends.

What’s next for your brand?

More products will be launched in 2013 and beyond. We have recently retained senior level support to increase brand awareness and marketing.

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

Consumer education on skin care, ingredients and how to improve your outer health. I would also invest heavily in PR, social and traditional marketing. Probably the biggest investment would be samples and demo events to get products directly into the consumers’ hands. I know that trying our products is a sure way of getting a customer. This is why we encourage our retail partners to have testers.

Where are you promoting your brand?

As of today, we have wholesale accounts covering 15 states along with Whole Foods Market in the Atlantic region. In addition to enhanced brand recognition driven by our current retail relationships, we have online and offline marketing programs to further strengthen our market share and improve brand awareness. Raw Materials products have been featured in blogs and magazines during the past year.
My team believes in customer retention and supporting our retailers towards success. We are available for on-site sampling programs at retail stores, which allow us to meet your customers and promote the products.

Getting a product into the stores takes time, patience and perseverance.  How do you know you have what it takes?

Simple – because of the time, patience and perseverance the Anna B Skincare team has endured over the past 7 years

What is your philosophy of life?

The words painted on my home wall best express my philosophy of life:  love, trust, faith, believe, hope, encourage, share, create, and forgive.

What are the three things a retailer should know about your brand that will help them get their margin?

HOW ABOUT 5…

 

  1. Market to women. 62% of women purchase personal care products for the men in their lives.

 

  1. Men prefer fragrance free products and most encounter ingrown hairs from shaving. I can easily get a purchase when asking a potential customer if they or their partner have any skin-related issues like ingrown hairs. Raw Materials Skin Grit will reduce ingrown hairs if used 3 times a week before shaving.  This is a VERY popular product with men.

 

  1. Men are brand loyal. Once they try our products, they will remain loyal to the Raw Materials brand.   Auto-shipment programs provide a simple solution to retain future purchases from your location, and one that has worked great with a few of our top retailers. Men also enjoy the convenience of having their favorite products shipped on a regular basis.  A loyalty program helps encourages repeat purchases directly from your place of business or website.

 

  1. Many male consumers prefer function over form. Rather than promoting ingredients, we suggest promoting results and skin benefits such as soft skin, reduced ingrown hairs, less irritation, and … how others will notice.
  2. The male market for grooming products is booming and is expected to exceed $4.7 billion by the year 2014 in the USA.  These male market figures do not include gender-neutral products purchased by male consumers, which, if included, more than triples the market potential.

 

Interview: Argentinian Jewelry Designer Adriana Laura Mendez

By | Wednesday October 31st, 2012 | 08:00 am | Comments

Company/Designer Name: Adriana Laura Mendez

How did you get started?

I started four years ago alongside my son Julian, who inspired me to become the artist that I am today.

Before I was an artisan, I was the owner of a landscaping company for more than 20 years. Even though I studied botany, I always wanted to fulfill my passion for jewelry and I decided that this was the right time in my life to do it.

I self taught the technique and master it by learning from the mistakes I was making to finally create unique pieces of art. Patience, hard work and perseverance were the key to achieve the goals of making the finest wire crochet jewelry.

Why did you join Noblivity®?

We were looking for an online marketing platform that will enable us to expand our brand and boost our sales. Also we found Noblivity as a great tool for business to business transaction and marketing because it speeds up marketing process and saves overall transaction costs. It’s a great company to help designers from all over the world to share their art and get internationally recognition. 

How would you describe your design style, design signature and who is your targeted customer?

I would describe it as one of a kind jewelry style because we combine the flawless crochet technique that will dazzle the audience. The weaving is unconventional, jewels and sculptures are created on a spiral curl-styled woven base. My weaving art is not based on patterns. The designs are developed as my hand weaving is in progress and are not influenced by popular trends or short-living fashion trends, a characteristic that makes them timeless and everlasting.

Technique skills, imagination, dedication and passion enable creations of work to enclose a magical creative world. Beauty in these jewelry pieces can be perceived by touching sensations as well as by visual perception. Material flexibility enhances its refinement and every handmade piece becomes an ornament that should be sensed as a natural extension of the body.

Our targeted customers are women from 25-55 who are looking to wear a unique piece of art.

What inspires you?

My three sons are truly my inspiration. They are the biggest treasure that I have in my life. Their constant guidance and support to my artwork helped me from day one to constantly move forward and overcome every obstacle that was in my way.

What obstacles did you have to overcome to get to where you are?

The biggest obstacle that I had to overcome was to create a jewelry style that will dazzle the audience.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

We did a lot of research in crochet jewelry and we found that there were a lot of ways to improve on a field that few people knew about.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

The greatest moment so far was the amazing feedback and recognition from people all over the world. Expanding our brand and building strong business relationships keeps us moving forward to the next level.

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far?

We try to evolve all the time and make new concepts so we can satisfy every customer. But if I have to pick something I would say that the bridal collection had a great impact on our designs, the feedback was incredibly amazing.

What’s next for your brand?

We are always trying to take everything to the next level. From the management point of view, we will keep expanding the brand and try to reach as many people as possible from around the world.

We are also working right now on our tanzanite collection that will make a statement of the uniqueness that we are constantly looking for.

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

I would travel around the world to be on the most important and exclusive fashion showcases to promote, expand and revolutionize the market.

What are the best and worst things about bringing a product to market?

I think people is scared of creating a product that will not make an impact on the market. Also, afraid they are not getting the recognition they deserve after leaving their soul and hard work on something they have created.

 What is your philosophy of life?

My philosophy is to live fully, making the most out of each day leaving nothing for tomorrow. Learn from every mistake because it will lead me to succeed in life, helping me to become a better person.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I would start earlier the passion that I have for jewelry.

When will you know you have made it?

I will know that I have made it when the brand is globally recognized and that I have fulfill my goal of sharing my art with others.

 

Interview: Luxury Apparel Design Duo Aparna Puri and Shireen Hafeez

By | Monday October 29th, 2012 | 08:00 am | Comments

Company/Designer Name: Aparna / Aparna Puri and Shireen Hafeez

How did you get started?

We wanted to address what we believe is a key gap in the women’s clothing market – clothes for women who like fine fabrics and haute couture styling in more realistic sizing. Women in their thirties and forties do not want to dress like their teenage daughters.

 Why did you join Noblivity®?

Noblivity’s promise of a global showroom where boutiques source new talent appealed to us.

What are retailers saying about your brand?

They love the understated sexiness in the classic, sophisticated styles.

How would you describe your design style, design signature and who is your targeted customer?

Our designs are alluringly ageless and will appeal to a wide range of women from their early thirties to sixties. Having said that, we are targeting the segment of affluent women in their thirties to mid-fifties for whom fabric, cut and quality are paramount. We design clothes for women like us who find that there is a lack of structured and comfortable clothing in the market.

Our clothes are classic but modern, not dull. The hemlines come down a bit but the necklines are sexy. If the hemline is shorter then, the necklines are more modest. The woman exudes confidence and attitude in our styles. Classic and sexy never goes out of style. Our signature lies in our ability to integrate masculine techniques with a feminine silhouette, enhancing the figure’s sensuality.

What obstacles did you have to overcome to bring your product to market?

It has been a steep learning curve as neither of us come from a fashion background. Industry specific challenges such as sourcing fine fabrics in small quantities and finding adequate production partners can be challenging for a low volume start-up company.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

We are acquiring a large set of skills merging creativity and business skills with art and commerce. We are small enough right now to be personally connected to every aspect of our business. It has a lot to do with passion and perseverance.

We differentiate ourselves from our competitors through our design and quality and have received positive feedback from complete strangers! Fortunately, we have had no shortage in three vital areas – creativity, work ethics and financials. We were adequately funded at inception and going forward.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

When we had different fit models try our clothes in different sizing and the fit works perfectly for different body types and shapes.

What’s next for your brand?

The next collection will not be very different from the present one. Our signature styles will be updated by changing fabrics and colors. It is liberating for women not to be preoccupied with too many silhouettes but to feel confident in what works well for their body shapes.

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

We would show our collection in the Paris catwalk since our clothes have a French understated sensibility and sophistication.

If we had a great PR firm, we would like to build brand recognition. In the long run, it would be our goal to establish connectivity in the internet world that could allow us to communicate directly with our clients.

What is your philosophy of life?

We are going to pass on that one!

Our philosophy for our work is that we don’t believe in doing things in half measure. We do things the right way, going all the way. We pay great attention to detail, fit, fabrics, construction. If we will not wear a dress, we scrap that idea – that is the bottom line, we design clothes for ourselves!

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

Sounds like a cliché but we don’t have any regrets. If we were to do it all over again, we would probably make different mistakes, but still learn along the way! Sometimes going the wrong way is more interesting because every mistake takes you in a new direction. Had we done one single thing differently, we would not be where we are today.

What are the three things a retailer should know about your brand that will help them get their margin?

Our clothes appeal to a wide customer base both in terms of age as well as sizing. Our clothes are well proportioned and look good on many different shaped women.

When will you know you have made it?

When we randomly come across a stranger wearing our brand in the streets of Mumbai or Milan!

 

Interview: Indian Handbag Designer Mithra Levis & FiberKraft Bags

By | Monday October 22nd, 2012 | 07:43 am | Comments

Company Name: Fiber Kraft

Manufacturer Background Summary:

Started in 2011 by Mithra Levis with a motive to revive forgotten craft traditions by injecting them with contemporary appeal, FK is a avenue to explore and to help underprivileged craftsman and their craft. We closely work these craftsman and try to uplift them.  FK is more a ethical brand.

Why did you join Noblivity®? 

It’s a platform for promising brand to venturing new markets; and they make the process flexible with less hassles.

How did you get started?

My love for beautiful accessories, Inspired by Indian arts and craft diversity and the need to revive these traditional crafts, FK was born.  There was a tremendous response from naturalistas and fashion critic, owing to the unique blend of sustainable materials.

How would you describe your brand aesthetics, design signature and who is your targeted customer?

A traditional Indian beauty with contemporary attitude, minimalistic, clean look targeted mostly on and FK is for a intellectual woman who wanted to set their identify and make a statement through her accessories.

What inspires you?

Exquisite Indian Handicrafts and nature…

What obstacles did you have to overcome to get to where you are?

To propagate eco-friendly products can be ultra stylish, edgy, unbashed and smart and to make people accept FK as eco luxury brand.

How did you overcome the obstacles along the way?

With utmost Belief in our Unique concept,smart  designs, uncompromising quality and minute detailing we made people accept our brand as eco luxe brand

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

Our international recognisation in a very short period of time

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far?

Global appeal to ethnic crafts

What’s next for your brand?

FK M.E.N

If money were no object what would you do right now to promote your brand?

Celebrity endorsements, attending International trade fair and fashion shows and FK lifestyle boutique.

What are the best and worst things about bringing a product to market?

Best thing is to know people like your product and worst thing is to make it survive in rat race of lifestyle product and differentiate it

What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?

Chain of FK lifestyle boutique, to promote FK as a lifestyle choice

What is your philosophy of life?

Build your dream or somebody will hire you to build theirs

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I am happy where I am because of my mistakes from the past…

When will you know you have made it?

When FK becomes Global brand

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