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Jess Rizzuti Launched in NY Textured Leather Handbags

By jessrizzuti | Monday March 8th, 2010 | 01:35 pm | No Comments

“Make the most out of every day and find the bright side of every situation.”, Jess Rizzuti

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Jess Rizzuti

Company/Designer Name: Jess Rizzuti New York | Jess Rizzuti

Designer Background Summary:

My love for accessorizing began at an early age, and was recognized when I picked out my first pair of red cowboy boots. After earning my BFA in Textiles from Rhode Island School of Design in 2003, I furthered my studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology, concentrating on Handbag and Accessory Design. In pursuit of my lifelong dream, my signature collection was launched in August 2008.

How did you get started?

After learning about the technical aspects of handbag design and construction, I felt prepared for the pursuit of my life long dream of having my own line. After visiting boutiques and seeing what else was happening in the industry I thought my designs could be on a shelf right beside designers work that I had always looked up to. My initial reaction was “what am I waiting for?” So I took the plunge and began researching manufacturers in New York.

What inspires your designs?

Travel has always inspired my work. It’s great to see you new things and new places. I continually draw inspiration from of Architecture, Art Nouveau, Gustav Klimpt, Nature, and Theater.

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

Jess Rizzuti New York embodies a modern lifestyle while mastering the art of detail. Jess Rizzuti is committed to producing handbags that are congruently beautiful, inside and out. Upon opening each bag, you will be greeted with a charming print that compliments the leather. I work with a variety of finest Italian and Argentinean hides rich in color and texture. My devotion to surface patterns stems from my background in textiles.

What designers inspire you?

Diane Von Furstenberg, Valentino, Nanette Lepore, Stella McCartney, and Tracy Reese

What obstacles did you have to overcome?

I began my business right before the economy took a turn for the worst. It’s tough to maintain what I’m doing sometimes, but I know if my business can make it through a time like this, then I’ll do just fine in the future.

How did you overcome them?

I’ve had to be very smart about how I invest myself financially and emotionally. I have to really think things through and make wise decisions about the course of developing my brand.

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

A friend called to tell me that she was walking on Madison Avenue and stumbled upon a boutique that had my work in the window.

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

My designs haven’t changed much since the conception. Colors may change, as well as the choice of materials, and I will always continue to build on the silhouettes I have developed thus far. But I think it’s important to remain true to my signature look, stay consistent, and acknowledge the strength of my designs.

If money were no object what would you do right now?

If money was no object, then I would probably have a boutique and an accessory line that would include shoes, luggage, and men’s leather goods. Some day I plan to accomplish all of that, but for now it’s one thing at a time.

What are the best and worst things about being a designer?

There are many great things about being a designer. It’s great to conceptualize an idea, and see it come to life in a product that not only makes me happy, but also brings pleasure to the people who wear my designs. Not to mention, I always have a wide variety of handbags to carry that are current and modern. The worst thing is that it consumes me 24/7. There’s always work that needs to be done.

Describe your typical day?

My days vary, and are far from typical. A day can consist of stopping by my manufacturer, sourcing materials, designing my website, designing a collection, drafting patterns, participating in a trade show, creating a look book and press kit, or drawing/painting all day.

What’s your philosophy of life? My philosophy is to make the most out of every day and find the bright side of every situation.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? I would have taken a business course to try to prepare myself for the endeavor.

When will you know you have made it? I will feel like I made it once my bags get photographed on the arms of celebrities like Kate Hudson and Sienna Miller.

The Jess Rizzuti Luxury Handbag Collection is available at The MarketPlace Noblivity.com

Tags: emerging designers, Jess Rizzuti, Leather Handbags
Posted in In the Spotlight

Monica Dusi Theatrically Trained Bag Lover

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By Monica Dusi | Wednesday March 3rd, 2010 | 07:34 pm | No Comments

”Have fun each moment of your life, and don’t take everything so seriously”, Monica Dusi

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designers Monica Dusi

Company/Designer Name: Monica Dusi – by Olive

Designer Background Summary:

At an early age, I started to explore the world of art. I have always been fascinated with cinema, theatre, photography, music and fashion. During high school I attended theatre and dance workshops. Eventually I decided to attend the International School of Theatre to study acting and dance/movement, which gave me a lot of confidence in my future life. In 2001 I moved to Los Angeles to attend the Colburn School of Performing Arts to study mime. Ultimately, I was involved in numerous visual art and dance/theatre projects, where I developed a keen sense of creating avant-garde costumes.

How did you get started?

During these years of creativeness I had a vision: to make my own line in Los Angeles……… Originally I created a “vintage inspired” clothing line, but as a big “bag lover”, I decided to produce a line specializing in hand-made, one-of-a-kind handbags and clutches for women.

What inspires your designs?

Nature, architecture, photography, old movies, and people.

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

My pieces are a fusion of a romantic past and an earthy present.

Each clutch and handbag is individually inspired and unique on its own. Freedom of creativity shared with practicality is the essence of my work. The allure of the 60’s and 70’s, and a throwback to the movies of the time inspire my latest collection. Vintage buttons and unique fabrics such as upholstery, drapery, organic jute, and suede, satin and silk are the integral parts of my collections. My target audience is a creative and independent woman.

What designers inspire you?

I love Alexander McQueen, Gianmbattista Valli, YSL and Lanvin.

What obstacles did you have to overcome?

Definitely market my product, there are so many designers out there, and you need to find your own place to be recognized.

How did you overcome them?

Work work work…

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

Launch my line, and my first sale. Also for the last few years I had a chance to present my collections in different trunk shows and fashion events in Italy and US.

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

Working with leather, and making new patterns …

If money were no object what would you do right now?

Open my own store/showroom

What are the best and worst things about being a designer?

I love the creation process, like a blank canvas you’re free to put colors and ideas… The worst is looking for investors, but still it’s a great challenge.

Describe your typical day?

Alarm at 7:30/8, workout (at least I try…!), and then jump into my red design-studio in South Pasadena….

What’s your philosophy of life?

Have fun each moment of your life, and don’t take everything so seriously…

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

I would go back to school, fashion school. Never too late!

When will you know you have made it?

I’m still learning my profession and improving everyday… I think never, it’s a long journey without limits…

Tags: by Olive, emerging designers, Handbags, independent designers, Monica Dusi
Posted in In the Spotlight

James McAloon Pushing the Boundaries

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By jmcaloon | Monday March 1st, 2010 | 04:16 pm | (1) Comment

“Work hard for me, work harder for my family, and work hardest for others”,James McAloon

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer James McAloon

Company/Designer Name: Excentree | James McAloon

Designer Background Summary:

I am James McAloon; I am Law graduate from The University of Birmingham UK. I turned my hand to fashion after having been very creative my whole life. I like to build things, create things. This applies not only to our garments but the building of a Brand that is Excentree. Our brand is as much a part of our creation as our clothing and we hope that people will come to know our brand with fond affection.

How did you get started?

In August 2007 on an airplane traveling from Dubai to South Korea, myself and my fiancé at the time, sat considering our future plans. Airplanes do give you the idle time that sometimes wouldn’t exist elsewhere in our hectic lives. We decided that we wanted to take positive action to enhance the consumer market. Fashion was to be our outlet and the process began.

What inspires your designs?

Excentree’s designs are inspired by life. Now I know that is a pretty broad category to be inspired by, so hopefully we will be innovative for many decades to come. We were inspired to begin by our love for clothing and the planet we live in and on. As a result our mission statement was soon formed “to keep our customers and our planet looking unique and beautiful.” Excentree draws on my experiences from traveling and living internationally especially of my time spent in South Korea. Some of our motif designs are created by a talented Korean Artist ‘Yuli’ and we hope she will continue to inspire us with her designs. In the future we hope to grow and expand our horizons to all manner of designs but as creatively minded as I was at the beginning of the Excentree project we thought it best to start simple and build on solid foundations, like the roots of the trees that we help our customers to plant we hope to have multiple branches on the Excentree.

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

Currently our design style is aimed toward the casual smart market, with our design signature being vibrant, motifs, designs and colours that promote conversation and comment. We hope to attract the eco, ethical conscious customer with our green message but we also aim to keep our garments main stream and popular so as to involve people who may not normally choose the green option. Our prices are targeted at bringing organic, ethical and eco fashion to a wider audience. As our products are exclusively limited edition we are aiming to provide the high street price tag coupled with couture rarity.

What designers inspire you?

Honestly a difficult question as I am not the average fashion school graduate and possibly lack the experience or knowledge of such, but I’ll tell you honestly, fashion is a journey for me not just born in the clothes. Classic designers such as Coco Channel inspire me because the message is simple make clothes that people feel comfortable in and that they can wear elegantly. Christopher Raeburn the British designer inspires me because of his green and ethical message; he creates great items that are incredibly versatile while recycling using excess pieces to create garments from fabric that would have otherwise been wasted.

What obstacles did you have to overcome? How did you overcome them?

The 2 years and 3 months after beginning was a hectic time I set about researching, learning, stumbling, failing and succeeding. It may or may not come as a surprise to you but all these were inevitable. I was at the time an inexperienced idealistic, yet creative entrepreneur setting out on a journey I had no idea would take me to where I am today. Excentree the name was born within a few hours, it was something that seemed to have always been with me and it fit. Our green yet off centre clothing line had just the right name. Yet the name, as well as a meeting with a Korean artist, friend and now Excentree designer, Yule, was the only thing that was really born for a while as I beavered away learning as much as I possibly could about fashion, clothing, processes, the environment, cotton, designers, web design, stylists, the list is endless. Fortunately after 12 months of intense study I emerged from the books and computer screen, and I was ready to move forward, or at least I thought I was. I had it; we were going to produce organic cotton t-shirts with simple motifs printed to order, and plant one tree for every one hundred t-shirts sold. It was not long before I realized that the reality of quality and the necessity of style, could not be achieved in this manner.

I wanted to produce small to make sure we didn’t create garments that we didn’t have a market for. The problem was trying to get a manufacturer with the correct credentials to work with a new fashion label on such small quantities. We were not only looking for small quantities we were looking for a producer with the correct ethical credentials. It was not easy but with some hard negotiation and reassurances from us that we would continue to work with the producer, we brokered a deal and I will be eternally grateful to our producer for having the faith in Excentree.

Since August 2008 our vision had grown and we wished to provide one tree with every garment, which would guarantee our customers a reduced Carbon Footprint of up to two tonnes. We also wished to keep the Excentree label within the category of affordable for all. During my research I had noticed that many organic, eco products came with an inflated price tag, this was not going to be the Excentree way. We would reduce our margins and take less profit to achieve our goal of providing organic, ethical and eco fashion garments at affordable prices while not compromising on style or quality.

It was not until August 2009 when I met Rob that our project began to really become a reality. It was like magic; Rob was the man with the TREES. A Roman philosopher said, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” We spent the next months collating every piece of the diverse puzzle that we had gathered from every corner of the earth during the preceding two years and put it together. We produced a small range of high quality organic cotton tees for women and men with meaningful artistic motifs by Yuli and a more jovial theme by myself. We were finally able to meet all our organic, ethical and eco desires. All garments are made from organic cotton, one tree is provided with each garment, the hang tag is made from seeded paper, a donation from each sale goes toward the Excentree GIVE Foundation and all the garments are limited edition.

The start may not have been overly original, white t-shirts with motifs, but the quality of the package was exceptional, and we all have to start somewhere. Excentree will be involved in eco fashion for many decades to come, and although don’t expect to see the extravagance of designers such as Alexander McQueen, or the elegance of Coco Channel just yet, there is a chapter in the Excentree book that will read, “Pushing the Boundaries”.

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

Excentree’s greatest moment so far has been to be able to help offset around 125 Tonnes of CO2 for our customers. Apart from this fact everything about the journey has been enjoyable and exciting. There is never a dull moment in my life and that is what I love.

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

The biggest change; well having made our first release in November 2009 there has been little time for change up until now, but our Spring Summer Collection will definitely provide the platform. We will have a big splash of colour which was absent from our first offering and we will also be venturing into children’s clothing and possibly if everything works out accessories. Watch this space.

If money were no object what would you do right now?

I’d work harder to make that money help other people. There are two categories here; first people being in desperate need of help due to poverty, and second people starting out in business with good ideas who need some financial backing. Give me 10 years and I hope to be able to tell you it has become a reality.

What are the best and worst things about being a designer?

Sometimes it can be a very lonesome experience, to be creative you have to be completely focused and then when you want to unwind you find that everyone has already left while you were getting deep into it. That goes for designing and business. The best thing is seeing your work blossom, when it walks down the street in front of you, or you get a mention in the Daily News, or when you see the work you are doing helping other people. The Excentree brand aims to give back in everything it does from farmer to front row at a fashion show. So Excentree is probably the best thing about being a designer.

Describe your typical day?

My day is hectic but always interesting. I am not an avid morning person, but I am improving. I start at an average time 8 am reading emails and responding to people via my various social media outlets, facebook, youtube, twitter and such like, that usually takes a while. Then I usually do some exercise, skipping and core work, my body needs to be worked to keep my mind fresh and focused. Then I spend the next 9 or more hours from about 10:30 focusing on ensuring Excentree is giving the most that it can be to everyone in the world. For the first 2 years it was all about ensuring our product could offer our customers a real brand experience and making sure we could back that up with real quality throughout the process. The last 3 months have been spent trying to make sure everyone knows we exist, so a lot of keyboard tapping and phone calls have been required. Hopefully a balance is emerging.

What’s your philosophy of life?

Work hard for me, work harder for my family, and work hardest for others. What I mean by this is when I offer something to the world I want it to go above and beyond their expectations. I am also a customer in many things I do and there is nothing worse than being disappointed in something you have invested time or money in. So everything I do in life I make sure that it is truly exceptional because if I know I like it then I know others are likely to as well.

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

Nothing! But I would love to see the journey on video tape.

When will you know you have made it?

I will know I have made it when Excentree is a household name alongside Ralph Lauren and Kellogg’s.

Our tee collection is now available in the US at The MarketPlace Noblivity.com

Tags: eco fashion, emerging designers, Excentree, James McAloon
Posted in In the Spotlight

Elena Montes Casado Introduces LadyUmbrella

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By ladyumbrella | Wednesday February 24th, 2010 | 04:04 pm | (2) Comments

“People have to be adventurous, happy, quirky and have positive energy”,Elena Montes Casado

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designers Elena Montes Casado & Rob Ryan

Company/Designer Name: LadyUmbrella/ Elena Montes Casado

Designer Background Summary:

I am Elena and I come from Madrid in Spain. I’ve always liked to design things and have been interested in art for as long as I can remember. I like to continually create art from photographs to teapots and installations to paintings.

How did you get started?

It all started with photography. My first camera was a 2^ndhand reflex camera which I liked using and then I started to work in a photolab and eventually got my own dark room. After that like everyone I progressed to a digital camera and from there I started to experiment with photoshop and illustrator. Once I came up with the LadyUmbrella idea it was a natural progression to apply the designs to t-shirts.

What inspires your designs?

LadyUmbrella came to be when I arrived in Dublin, Ireland a few years ago from Madrid. There is so much rain in this country it is unbelievable. Anyway, I saw lots of umbrellas on the streets covering people’s faces and thought that a lady with an umbrella for a head could make for an interesting character and brand idea. Most of my designs feature LadyUmbrella and are inspired by, well, I don’t know, life and living I guess..

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

The designs at the minute are simple and single coloured with pure lines. I like to use shadows to add mystery to the designs as you don’t know if LadyUmbrella is in a room or outside. LadyUmbrella is in her own surreal magic world where anything can happen, even light bulbs dangling from the sky or LadyUmbrella standing on a small iceberg after traveling in her paper boat. The target customer is pretty much anybody who likes the designs. I don’t think there is a certain age group for a LadyUmbrella customer but a particular mindset – people have to be adventurous, happy, quirky and have positive energy.

What designers inspire you?

I studied history of art so I am influenced by that. I lived in Barcelona when doing my masters and the city is rich with design. Every street has something interesting and inspiring to offer, all of the restaurants there pay attention to small details of their design and layout and so I can’t reference any particular fashion designer. Just by living in and observing places like Barcelona and Madrid I have found lots of inspiration for designs. During my masters I studied Giorgio de Chirico who was an Italian painter from the Futurist movement who inspired me to include empty spaces in my designs and to create an air of mystery. Julio Cortazar is an Argentinean writer who wrote Cronopios and Famas which inspired me for the unusual surroundings and scenarios that I could use place LadyUmbrella in.

What obstacles did you have to overcome?

For me it is easy to start designing but I find it very hard to say that a design is finished. By saying something is finished it then gives people the chance to criticize it and so because I am shy I get nervous about what people are going to say about a design.

How did you overcome them?

I had to. And Rob (the other part of the LadyUmbrella team) told me to otherwise we would never be able to get our ladies clothes created. I’m still trying to fully overcome it though, so far so good.

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

The greatest moment for me was seeing my designs on our t-shirts. Not the first time though. The first time I saw them I really didn’t like the t-shirts we were using and the designs didn’t look as I imagined they would so I had to redesign them completely. The journey to get to here has taken about 18 months and when we started all of our designs were to be printed on white t-shirts – needless to say that didn’t happen. The 2^nd time seeing the next version of our t-shirts as they evolved wasn’t as harrowing as the first time but still didn’t provide the elation I was hoping for. This time around I was happy with the print but the style of the t-shirt needed to be modified. 3^rd time round was the lucky one though and provided me with the greatest moment of the journey so far. I am really happy and proud of how our t-shirts have turned out.

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

As I said earlier the first designs were all white which has been changed for all colour. Also, during the design phase I added more details and spaced the elements out differently to try use more of the “canvas” of the t-shirt. For example, in LadyUmbrella is Away with the Birds the clouds and cages were added after the initial design.

If money were no object what would you do right now?

Design more t-shirts with lots of different shapes and styles and investigate a lot more about fabrics and give LadyUmbrella a broad appeal, not just t-shirts but all types of clothing. In time LadyUmbrella will design all types of clothing (and more) but for now I have to build it up – if money were no object that is what I would right now though.

What are the best and worst things about being a designer?

There is always something new to learn or something new to see. I also like how the brain reacts to new ideas and how new designs form and evolve. The worst thing is when those ideas don’t arrive and my mind is completely blank.

Describe your typical day?

I don’t really have typical days. I spend a few hours working on new designs most days. I also have to take care of all the other design work for LadyUmbrella which eats into my time to design fresh designs. Rob always wants me to make new videos or edit this picture or that picture for him as we are trying to get the word out. I also have to spend time most days in packing and getting orders ready for shipment – such an enjoyable chore…So, there are no typical days really but if I’m working I’m on my mac, that is the only thing that is constant.

What’s your philosophy of life?

I really don’t know. There are so many good philosophies out there that mine will pale in comparison to them but one thing we always say at LadyUmbrella is “Stay Happy” and I think it is a nice way to try live one’s life. All the clichés of “life is too short”, “you only go around this crazy merry go round once” and “don’t take things for granted” are all pretty much true so why not stay happy?

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

Not a lot really. I think I am where I am now and LadyUmbrella is where it is now because of what we have learnt in the past. All of the mistakes we made have helped us to learn and to get to where we are now.

When will you know you have made it?

I don’t know yet but I hope when the time comes it’ll be obvious hehe.

Tags: Elena Montes Casado, emerging designers, LadyUmbrella
Posted in In the Spotlight

Jack Brodie’s Scottish Heritage Reflected in Cashmere

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By Brodie Cashmere | Monday February 22nd, 2010 | 02:49 pm | No Comments

“Smile through even the worst situations”, Jack Brodie

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Jack Brodie

Company/Designer Name: Brodie Cashmere / Brodie designed by the whole Jack Brodie team!

Design Background of the Range:

There has been so many design inputs that it would be hard to talk about just one designer as being behind the Brodie range! The design background of the range incorporates so many individual contributions, it is best to talk about the story of the development of the Brodie range!

Brodie’s Scottish heritage, coupled with the finest Mongolian cashmere and our Italian design team made the perfect ingredients to unique and wearable cashmere garments.

Using the traditional skills passed down by generations from the borders of Scotland, to the steppes of Mongolia, we have a passion for producing the finest quality cashmere garments that our customers know and love.

Our product has the heritage of Scotland, gained through generations of experience, whilst the steppes of Mongolia is where we found the finest raw cashmere and traditional skills of over 300 knitters to produce the quality garments that are exported around the world today.

Our Brodie products are not just the work of technologists, they are the product of artisans who have years of experience in the knitting of cashmere. Brodie is a product which is a reflection of the land that it comes from and the people who created it.

Italy is known for its passionate people, magnificent cuisine and its eye for design. It was in this vibrant country that we began working with our friend Jess Carlucci in the design of the latest range of Brodie cashmere, using a marriage of the classical skills of the past with the modern designs of today. The Brodie cashmere range reflects the style and quality of the best Italian design whilst maintaining the timeless look and feel that has ensured that cashmere has a distinctive style all of its own.

How did you get started?

Jack Brodie had been working with cashmere all his life; creating luxurious cashmere garments for other people. With his years of experience, knowledge of the finest cashmere raw material, and with Jess Carlucci’s design inspiration assistance, it was decided that Jack was to create his own cashmere range. So in October 2009 Brodie was designed to bring great cashmere to people at a price they can afford, without compromising on quality.

What inspires your designs?

Our designs are inspired by literally anything! Italian culture, Mongolian history, Scottish weather! We strive to give people what they need and what they desire in one of the world’s finest raw materials.

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

Brodie is a fresh and innovative take on cashmere. The range incorporates both classical pieces and contemporary fashion designs in 100% cashmere. Unique to Brodie is our ability to offer light weight cashmere pieces which allow for all year wearability.

Brodie aims to target all kinds of women who love cashmere and share our passion for bringing a really great cashmere product to people at a price they want to pay.

Each piece in the ladies autumn-winter 2010-2011 collection is named after our closest friends and family; the Jessie Hug, the Becky Knit, the Kimmy cardy, the May Bolero, the Fabby Gabby….. We wanted to create something that any woman can enjoy, irrespective of age and size.

What designers inspire you?

All designers offering amazing products but at an affordable price!

What obstacles did you have to overcome?

Given Brodie’s Scottish roots, Italian designers and Mongolian raw material it was difficult putting together the range! All the small details to make the garments that extra bit special had to be understood in 3 different languages and communicated across various time zones! Photos and Skype were our lifesavers!

How did you overcome them?

A few cups of tea, late night conference calls, and the whole team supporting our Brodie mission helped us all to get the range together in time to launch at Pure London this February!

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

When the range arrived into our UK office and to suddenly realize that the whole thing was real and we actually had a range together! Looking at our creation and feeling so proud of the whole team was an amazing sensation!

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

We always wanted to offer cashmere at affordable prices without compromising on quality or design. We also wanted to ensure our cashmere had all year wearability, and not just limited to the cold winter months! So we recreated our designs into a light weight version allowing us to achieve these goals.

If money were no object what would you do right now?

We would give everyone who helped us every piece of the range in every colour to show our appreciation for their time, effort and patience!

What are the best and worst things about being a designer?

The uncertainty that you are doing it right but then having the collection before your eyes and realizing that it came out better than we ever expected.

Describe your typical day?

The only certainty of the day is that we all have at least 10 cups of tea and answer a bombardment of emails from Italy and Mongolia because our day before late night emails did not make any sense!

What’s your philosophy of life?

Smile through even the worst situations, keep your calm and deal with problems calmly and consistently.

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

We would give ourselves more time to create the range, and gather all the team together in one country to discuss the range.

When will you know you have made it?

Oooo- Maybe when we are on the cover of a magazine? But even to overhear a group of people discussing and recommending the Brodie range would be a pretty awesome feeling!

Tags: Brodie Cashmere, cashmere sweaters, emerging designers, Jack Brodie
Posted in In the Spotlight

Sheri Sopczak One-of-a-Kind Chicks and Girlies

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By Chicks and GIrlies | Sunday February 21st, 2010 | 09:54 am | No Comments

“Until I find a style I truly love, I will continue making one of a kind.” Sheri Sopczak

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Sheri Sopczak

Company/Designer Name: Chicks and Girlies | Sheri Sopczak

Designer Background Summary: No formal design education

How did you get started? My Mom has been a handbag designer for as long as I can remember so I kind of grew up with it … like having another sibling! I tried making a few handbags a couple years ago out of fabric but wasn’t very good I didn’t think, so being discouraged I went on with life. In December of 2009 my mother shared some leather with me as I was bursting with ideas and didn’t know how to express them. So I quickly made myself my first Leather Handbag, posted it to Facebook and within an hour it had sold. That was the start! Everything has moved very, very quickly from there and I am thrilled with the response everyone is having to Chicks & Girlies! It is a wonderful feeling to have people appreciate what you create.

What inspires your designs? Colors, moods, feelings, passions… Life. I just look at the leather and I know what I’m going to create.

How would you describe your design style, design signatures and who is your targeted customer? My handbags are all one-of-a-kind designs no pattern is used so it is impossible to recreate. I couldn’t draw a picture of what the bags will look like when I am done as I don’t even know until it is finished. I cut each piece as I need it and I love doing it this way… It feels like a mystery I am about to solve the entire way through! So I don’t think I have found my style yet and I think that this is also what inspires me …not having a set style is freeing…so far anyway! I don’t have a target audience, It’s my hope that I can create something for everyone.

What designers inspire you? I try not to pay attention to other designers for fear of copying anyone else’s style. Rather I just watch people, how they wear their clothes, the attitudes they portray and radiance they exude. It’s the power of confidence these women feel that inspires me to create.

What obstacles did you have to overcome? Well, I design one-of-a-kind handbags… this takes time as I cannot mass produce one design. Until I find a style I truly love, I will continue making one of a kind.

How did you overcome them? Take it one day at a time, one Handbag at a time!

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far? I was just asked by Anita Talbert, Executive Producer of the Oscar Suite of 100 Stars, to have my Chicks and Girlies bags at the 2010 Pre Oscar Gifting Suite for the stars and media. Very exciting to say the least!

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far? I don’t think I have had enough time to change anything yet!!

If money were no object what would you do right now? Hire a cleaning lady and a chief so I could sew all day and all night (with of course time for my 3 amazing daughters,son and wonderful husband in between!) Each purse in like reading a great book you can’t put down until it’s done! It’s all I want to do!

What are the best and worst things about being a designer? Loving every minute so far! Didn’t know there could be a worst part!

What’s your philosophy of life? Be nice…

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? Be more prepared! I didn’t even know if people would like them so when they did, I definitely wasn’t well enough prepared!

When will you know you have made it? Oh my goodness… I never even thought about that! Everyone is saying everything is happening so fast with Chicks & Girlies “like those lucky people you see on OPRAH”… so I guess when I get on OPRAH… then I will know I have made it!!

Tags: chicks and girlies, emerging designers, Leather Handbags
Posted in In the Spotlight

Zack Lo Extroverted Footwear Elegance

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By zackloshoe | Saturday February 20th, 2010 | 04:56 pm | (6) Comments

“Will it. Believe it. Do it. Now.”, Zack Lo

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Zack Lo

Company/Designer Name: Zack Lo Shoes / Zack Lo

How did you get started? I have a Fine Arts and Graphic Design background, but have always had a passion for shoes. About five years ago, I started designing with a friend of mine in London, whose family owned a shoe manufacturing business in Taiwan. At the same time, I learned the craft of handmade shoes. The Voodoo Circus is my first collection.

What inspires your designs? I am inspired by vintage styles and by past luxuries–and the lasting imprint they make, but at the same time I have a deep attraction for what seems new. I am equally attracted to Old Hollywood Glamour as much as by Japanese anime. For me, I am inspired by what I perceive as beautiful, and that is always a visceral reaction. So I design what makes me feel happy and connected to world around me.

How would you describe your design style, design signatures and who is your targeted customer? I think that my designs are extroverted, but yet reflect elegance and sophistication. My design style at the moment is really about mixed mediums–combing many different colors, textures and materials in ways that seem dynamic and feminine to me. I design shoes that I hope are viewed as fashion in the truest sense, and not just accessories to apparel. I design for a woman who has no fear in expressing who she is–a woman who makes deliberate fashion choices that speak about who she is, rather than follow obvious trends.

What designers inspire you? Elbaz for Lanvin. Also, I saw recently the Iris Apfel exhibit at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA, “Rare Bird of Fashion,” from her personal collection. Genius and theatrical style unfettered by any convention!

What obstacles did you have to overcome? Shyness, especially in public speaking. I much prefer to express myself in my work and in my art.

How did you overcome them? I am still in the process of resolving! And I try to smile a lot.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far? I am really most happy when thinking about future creations–about growing personally as a designer and staying true to my vision. Rather than think about what I have done, I want to always consider what I will yet do. And of course, I get inspired by women asking me what my next collection will look like.

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far? Listening to what women want and the endless ways they think about fashion. I learned that many women want choices that reflect how and what they feel–one day a princess, the next day a president. I have started to design with this in mind–that is why each shoe in my collection has an individual personality–like characters in a play.

If money were no object what would you do right now? Catch up on my sleep! And then I would seek out more opportunities to collaborate on projects with all types of other designers–I really enjoy the energy and community of creating this way.

What are the best and worst things about being a designer? The best is being fully engaged in a project from vision to creation to production. And of course feeling elated when people respond well to my work. This creates value for me–the sharing of happiness and expression. The worst I think, is making compromises along the way that affect the end result in a challenging way.

Describe your typical day? I generally go to sleep late–since I prefer to do my design work at night, when the energy and excitement of the day is still reverberating in the city. I typically answer emails and return calls in the morning, have lunch with associates or meet socially with friends in the afternoon, and then get to work when most people are finishing their day.

What’s your philosophy of life? “Will it. Believe it. Do it. Now.”

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? That is a really difficult question, since I feel like I am still at the beginning. I would like to answer this again in twenty years, and I hope that will be able to do so without any regrets.

When will you know you have made it? When I never stop to think to about what I have achieved! I want to be looking forward and having wonderful people always around me looking ahead in the same direction.

Tags: emerging designers, independent designers, Zack Lo Shoes
Posted in In the Spotlight

Kazumi Lomri and Mom Building a Handbag Brand – Chako

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By klomri | Thursday February 18th, 2010 | 07:58 am | No Comments

“Do not be afraid of change, take chances and rely on your intuition.”, Kazumi Lomri

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Kazumi Lomri

Company/Designer Name: Chako | Kazumi Lomri

Designer Background Summary:

Chako was launched in 2003 by my mother and I. Neither one of us has a formal fashion background, but we leveraged my mother’s creative talents, my business development background and our passion to breathe new life into the beautiful traditional Japanese obi and kimono.

We have jointly lived in 8 different countries*, which gives us the ability to understand and adapt to new environments and cultures well. This allows us to uniquely position and refine the brand to appeal to women around the world.

* I have lived in Japan, Philippines, Mexico, USA, Spain, Hong Kong, UK and France. My mother has lived in Japan, Philippines and Mexico

How did you get started?

Our collaboration began one summer in 2001, when I asked my crafty mother for a small favor – to make a handbag out of a silk obi that I found in an antique market in Tokyo. After moving to Hong Kong in 2002, I was inspired to pursue the venture seriously with the encouragement of my friends, whom were already putting in their orders!

What inspires your designs?

The primary inspiration is the vintage obi and kimono fabrics we use. A lot of man-hours goes into creating these garments, many are hand-embroidered or hand-painted, however, most of them sit in people’s armoires for years without seeing daylight. We wanted to revive these fabrics and give them the spotlight they deserve. As there are so many choices of fabric, colours and patterns, we get excited that we create a clutch that can suit varying fashion styles from around the world.

We also continue to draw inspiration from our customers, nature and through our travels.

How would you describe your design style? Modern, yet timeless & versatile

What designers inspire you? Coco Chanel, Yves Saint Lauren, Antoni Gaudi (architect)

What obstacles did you have to overcome? The initial fear of believing that our product is unique. Lack of experience in the fashion industry requires us to do a lot more research and work even harder to build up our customer relationships and contacts. However, we are really enjoying the learning process! Dealing with the physical distance between my mother and myself (She is in Tokyo and I am in Paris & Hong Kong). It naturally creates a lot of challenges to operating the business, but does ensure we are efficient!

How did you overcome them? Listening to the customers, seizing every opportunity given and keeping a positive but realistic outlook.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far? I feel that we are just starting this journey so I am hoping our greatest moment is yet to come. However, when we were featured in Financial Times Style section, it really hit home that we created a great product!

Where are you headed personally and professionally? Personally, I am building my life in Paris with my husband and hope to grow our family. Professionally, I juggle a full-time job alongside building the Chako brand until recently, so now I am dedicating 100% of my time to growing the business and marketing my mother’s amazing talent around the world. I would like to continue to make Chako a better-known brand in several key markets and increase our point of sales.

If money were no object what would you do right now? Invest more in our business.

What are the best and worst things about being a designer? I have the continuous joy of honing our creative skills and further building a brand which I believe in. On the flip side, you must understand not everyone is going to love each design we launch and we have to remind ourselves that the criticism will keep us on our toes and make us stronger.

Describe your typical day? Since we are a very small team, we have to wear many hats. A typical day consists of sourcing the materials, checking emails and orders from customers, and then work on business development opportunities. My mother’s day consists of production and designing a new collection.

What’s your philosophy of life? I live by two: Do not be afraid of change, take chances and rely on your intuition. Live with no regrets, enjoy every part of the journey.

What’s your favorite meal time setting? Dinner with family and friends with lots of wine and good food. We love cooking and eating!

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

I happily answer nothing. Some people ask why we did not concentrate solely on Chako once the brand was established, instead of balancing two jobs for 6 years. However, I am glad we started at a slower pace and the wealth of experience I gained from working for 10 years in the corporate world, has greatly helped us build a stronger foundation for Chako.

When will you know you have made it?

In some ways we have already made it. One huge benefit of Chako is it keeps me and my mother connected. We both LOVE being creative and we LOVE working together, and it has been a great partnership! It makes me happy and proud to see both my mother and I having this second chapter to our professional lives.

I hope we will always keep challenging ourselves to grow.

Tags: Chako, emerging designers, Handbags, independent designers, Kazumi Lomri
Posted in In the Spotlight

Mehera Blum Attaining Equilibrium

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By Mehera Blum | Tuesday February 16th, 2010 | 10:46 am | No Comments

“All of life is a journey and we need the good with the bad to move forward.” Mehera Blum

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Mehera Blum

Company/Designer: Blumera | Mehera Blum

Designer Background Summary: I grew up in South Carolina and traveled the world extensively since my youth. I received my BFA, from Boston University, in acting, and also studied acting at LAMDA, in London. Blumera began on a whim in the winter of 2004.

How did you get started? In short, I was in Bali on my way to India and thought I could bring back a few pieces to sell. I would be walking down the street wearing one of my bags and people would stop me to find out where I got the bag. I would sell it, then and there, like a gypsy. Within four months Eva Mendes was wearing one of my bags in Life and Style Magazine and there was a blurb about Blumera. I had no idea my bag had been featured until I got an order from a girl in Chicago who wanted the bag from the magazine. The growth of Blumera has been very natural and organic. I started from scratch and built the company slowly, only implementing the next step when necessary.

What inspires your designs? I was very inspired by Bali. Travel, in general, inspires me. I love the fantasy of travel. Its like being in a fairy tale: tasting exotic food, speaking foreign tongues, meeting diverse people, and trotting distant lands. It is in this way that I see crossover between acting and design. It’s the creation process and I love the magic of creation. Bali has magic on the island different to any other. But every place has its an own unique magic and I love discovering it. The experience runs through me, through my heart, and is then manifested into physical form.

How would you describe your design style, design signatures and who is your targeted customer? Color is an integral part of my design style. Blumera’s signature silk lining is hand-dyed magenta. The inspiration for the color again comes from nature, this time in the form of a bougainvillea flower. The magenta silk is then hand-screened with the gold Blumera insignia. All the hardware is hand-carved flowers following the Blumera logo.

My target customer is anyone who loves art and who loves to express their self in what they are wearing. Blumera customer’s range in age from young girls to mature women, with the common thread that they love to wear something unique and special that tells a little story of who they are.

What designers inspire you? As a young girl, I appreciated the designs and colors of Matthew Williamson.

What obstacles did you have to overcome? The whole journey has been up and down, as life is for any one of us. I find that the beauty of our existence. It’s never easy, but each time hopefully we are better equipped to grow from the opportunities presented to us. Blumera was actually born out of a prayer to God. I was very ill with fatal levels of mercury poisoning. The mercury caused me to lose my memory: I was unable to carry on conversations or retain enough information to even read. Being an actress, this was obviously a problem. And so I prayed to God to help me: If I am unable to act at this time, please help me to find something to do, something that is still creative and that I can do while dealing with the illness.

How did you overcome them? It took me two years to get enough of the mercury out of my system. But I still worked, actually I continued acting in the recovery, and continued to make strides with Blumera.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far? That is too hard to quantify! I’d have to name a time that was long before Blumera “officially” began. I was seven years old and met my namesake, Mehera Irani, in India for the first time. No words can express how precious this time was with her.

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far? Two years ago I began my own factory, which produces exclusively for Blumera. That was a milestone because I gained complete control over what it was I was making. To me quality is most important. Every part of the bag is handmade, the only thing not, is the zipper. Blumera lining is made from pure silk, which is hand-dyed to magenta, and screened with the Blumera insignia, in gold. The hardware is all hand-carved. And every bag has a Blumera trinket bearing inspirational words by Meher Baba. And so, when I began the factory the designs became all me.

If money were no object what would you do right now? I’d really like to open a Blumera flagship store, and continue to open them all over the world. I have so many ideas so I’ll stop there or this interview would get very long!

What are the best and worst things about being a designer? Being a designer is only one component of what I do for Blumera, and so it’s easier to answer what are the best and worst parts of owning the company. The best parts are designing and watching the creation manifest from a mere figment of my imagination. That is incredible. To see a design be born, and take shape from my minds eye, to living and breathing in my hand or on my arm is really something. The worst part about being the owner is that all the pressure falls on my shoulders, and I don’t have anyone to share that with! No one quite feels the same way about Blumera as I do, and sometimes I wish I could share the burden.

Describe your typical day? Well, it depends on what phase I am in. If I am in the designing phase I am very nurturing with myself, and all creativity is a flow. It is when I am very relaxed that I design best. Actually, when I just relax, I have found that the impossible becomes possible. If I am in the sales phase, then I am out and about meeting people, talking on the phone, etc. And the list goes on. I wear every hat, and every day the hat looks just a little bit different.

What’s your philosophy of life? I believe we are here to grow and to experience the world fully, yet at the same time to develop a detachment to it: so that the world goes on around us and we are a part of it and in it, but never of it. Of course, this is much easier said then done.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? Nothing. All of life is a journey and we need the good with the bad to move forward. If we did not experience darkness we would not know light.

When will you know you have made it? Haha! Good question! I am a perfectionist so I am not sure I can answer that. I endeavor to make Blumera a household name. So if that can be measured, perhaps at that time! But there are far more things beyond Blumera that I want to do. I would like to act again and do films all over the world in the native language and culture of that land. I’d like to start a family. So many things… but it always comes back to “create.” The most important thing is the relationship I have with myself: attaining equilibrium – an inner poise and grace. Perhaps then “I will have made it.”

Purchase the Blumera Leather Handbag Collection @ The MarketPlace Noblivity.com

Tags: Blumera, emerging designers, Leather Handbags, Mehera Blum
Posted in In the Spotlight

Skylier Blanchard Designing for Princesses

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By Skylier Wear | Friday February 12th, 2010 | 06:47 pm | No Comments

“Passion, Patience and Education are the keys to building a successful life”. Skylier Blanchard

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Skylier Blanchard

Company/Designer Name: Skylier Wear Collection| Skylier A. Blanchard

Designer Background: is the owner and designer for the Skylier Wear Collection, an Oakland California based fashion label. I have shown a passion for promoting the economic growth of Oakland for the past 20 years and have worked with many city officials and business developers to generate innovative ideas for the community.

As an employee at the Lilli Ann Corporation 1991-93, I made my decision to become a fashion designer and produced my first women’s collection and fashion show in 1992. Not knowing the work or responsibilities ahead of me, I began to pursue my career in the dynamic industry of fashion. I sharpened my merchandising and business skills while working with companies such as Blanc Noir, Macy’s at Union Square, Sears and other major retailers and refined my design skills in Europe.

How did you get started?

I started designing in 1991 as a hobby here in Oakland. “I really missed the arts, so I started sketching portraits of different people from the cover of Time and People magazines.

Then, I started to focus on fashion magazines, like Vogue, Bazaar and Elle.”I switched jobs after sending out some resumes, I got a call from the Lilli Ann Corporation. After the interview and tour of the building, I knew right then and there I was going to be a designer. After a short time with the company 1992 my first collection was followed by a fashion show 1992.

What inspires your designs?

Basically, staying within the basic conservative styles, focusing more on comfort. Elegant is the way I chose my fabrics…Clean and pure sensational every girls dream is to be a princess. My designs shape the mind of young girls and women.

How would you describe your design style, design signatures and who is your target customer?

The Skylier Wear Couture Collection specializes in special event dresses for juniors and women. A special dress should make you feel beautiful inside and out. Several original Skylier Wear Couture dresses are sustainably designed using vintage fabrics and all are produced locally in Oakland.

While each dress is classically designed, Skylier Wear enjoys paying special attention to the back of the dress by adding surprising elements of sophisticated design. Skylier Wear’s Urban Asian Collection explores the integration of Asian patterns with Western designs.

What designers inspire you?

Giorgio Armani, Tracey Reese, Michael Kor, Vivian Westwood, J. Crew, Gap and Banana Republic

What obstacles did you have to overcome?

I’ve experienced so many setbacks and disappointments through developing as a designer and life in general. I only view them as lessons learned and so I continued on my way to learn the next lesson. Not having a steady cash flow or any connection to financial resources, I kept my living expenses small.

How did you overcome them?

Seeing each phase developed into its final stage, the hardest part is the waiting time. The No Money time! This is always the number one challenge. But I try not to think about the M-word so much. I continued to work more on the skills that are needed to get there. The key to success is too keep going.

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

Seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces and how encouraging they are when the see the colors and styles of the SWC designs. Seeing, each task through to its finish. Also just riding the highs and the lows of the market.

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

Establishing more marketing solutions, also more financial resources. Now fI ocus more on product development and sells. My brand hs become more visible to the market.

If money were no object what would you do right now?

I would continue to produce my products. I would continue to developed good customer service, build strong client relationships and to keep working closely with manufacturing and distribution companies as well as specialty stores and retail stores. I would look for more long term relationships and long term opportunities.

What are the best and worst things about being a designer?

Is creating from a blank sheet of paper or a piece of fabric and making it any to whatever you like and it turn out beautiful. The worst is trying to sell it which can be very challenging for designers especially when you can’t afford a Sale Rep.

Describe your typical day?

It comes in many stages, designing many collections, confused and exciting some days because it is so much to do especially if you’re participating in fashion shows. Most days are just paper work, email marketing, or producing a new line. Every day is a busy day in Fashion. Creation never stops. That’s the beauty of being a fashion designer.

What’s your philosophy of life?

Passion, Patience and Education are the keys to building a successful life.

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

Have more funding available and keep everything else. I would want to be the same person (ME).

When will you know you have made it?

You make it when you have something to show for it and we do. (We’ve made it) The rewards are on its way.

Tags: emerging designers, independent designers, Skylier Blanchard, Skylier Wear
Posted in In the Spotlight

Loyal Luxe Designer Dwellings of Upscale Pets

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By Loyal Luxe | Wednesday February 10th, 2010 | 06:04 pm | No Comments

“We are thrilled to present for the first time in USA through the Accent on Design A+”, Marie-Pier Guilmain and Maud Beauchamp

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designers Marie-Pier Guilmain and Maud Beauchamp

Designers: Marie-Pier Guilmain and Maud Beauchamp

Company: Loyal Luxe

Designer Background Summary: Industrial designers who graduated from the University of Montreal’s Faculté de l’Amenagement

How did you get started?

After university we wanted to create something together. At that time we didn’t know what, but we definitely had a craving to create and manage our own products. In 2008 in Mont-St-Hilaire, Quebec, Canada, our trade mark, Loyal Luxe, was born from the idea that products for pets should be different. We believe that our animal friends and their owners should have access to products with a more sophisticated and modern design.

What inspires your designs?

Our company wants a fresh and modern approach to products intended for our four legs friends. In order to do this, we develop products in line with the present needs of customers who are concerned not only with the health and the well-being of their pets, but also with new trends in terms of design and sustainability.

To achieve this, we put all our focus on a contemporary and specific approach based on our expertise and creativity. As life-long lovers of animals, we intend to rethink the aesthetic and practical aspects of products made for living creatures — either with fur or feathers — with which share our lives. Inspired by the behavior of our own cats, we went ahead in this entrepreneurship journey with enthusiasm and fervor.

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

Our very first product, which distinguishes itself through its innovative design and its humoristic theme, was inspired by the Canadian-style chalets and their associated symbolism; it has already made its way all across Canada and got a pretty good response from both the media and consumers. We are now thrilled to present it for the first time in USA through the Accent on Design A+: the young designers’ platform of the New-York International Gift Fair.

What obstacles did you have to overcome?

Being designers and entrepreneurs in the same time is not always easy; we have to wear a lot of hats every day and to learn to be good in a wide range of disciplinary. From finance to maintenance, everything had to be covered by ourselves. We do all this with a small budget which also means we have to calculate every move.

How did you overcome them? We try to be resourceful and take every relevant class we can find to help improve our managing skills.

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

We can tell that one of the best moments is when we realized that our small business makes enough noise to appear on TV and in Newspapers. It’s also always a nice moment when someone calls your head office just to tell us that he likes what we do and that it changed their pet’s live.

If money were no object what would you do right now?

We would definitely run the same kind of design business but probably with more products coming out and a bigger team surrounding us. We would travel more around the world in search for more inspiration, and we might also do some projects in collaboration with other designers and organizations.

What are the best and worst things about being a designer?

The best thing is you have the freedom to create and hopefully improve the material world. The worse is often, when you try to change the way things are, people tend to look at you like you are the “crazy ones” and are not necessarily open to changes. But when you think about it, being seen as the “crazy ones” can also be pleasant sometimes!

Describe your typical day? There is no typical day.

What’s your philosophy of life? Inspire and Expire.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? Nothing. We like to think that we have learned from our mistakes.

When will you know you have made it? This is really hard to say… Never I guess! Craving for new projects will always be there.

Tags: emerging designers, independent designers, Loyal Luxe, Marie-Pier Guilmain, Maud Beauchamp, Pet Houses
Posted in In the Spotlight

Elizabeth Phillips Elspeth NY On the Road to Success

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By Elspethny | Tuesday February 9th, 2010 | 01:46 pm | No Comments

“I enjoy being able to have the vision to see things without being able to see them in front of me.”, Elizabeth Phillips

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Elizabeth Phillips

Company/Designer Name: Elspeth New York / Elizabeth Phillips

Designer Background Summary:

I am an innovative designer that is quickly rising in the world of fashion. After graduation from The Ohio State University, I lent my talent and ideas to classic luxury brand companies such as Coach, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren. After falling in love with accessories, in 2005 I paved my road to success and founded ELSPETH NEW YORK. Now, I use my freedom to compose eclectic combinations of material, colors and textures. My determination combined with my extensive background as a fashion designer, ELSPETH designs are on the cutting edge of style.

How did you get started?

After graduating from college and moving directly to New York City, I entered the fashion industry directly with the passion for accessories. I worked for a wide range of companies and realized my true obsession for creating and designing a great product. I wanted to create accessories that were individual and alive with passion. A product that consists of true quality and the attention paid to details,

What inspires your designs?

Everyday living, inspires me to design, living in New York City is a great way to find many muses. I also depend on finding materials that help me mold and create a handbag. Feeling the texture and seeing the colors I can envision what the creation will be.

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

ELSPETH is a premier handbag line that is known for its luxurious materials, vivacious colors and incredible quality. To give women a transformational accessory that allows her to transition from morning to night with ease. My target customers’ age range is between 25-55 years old women, aimed for the busy girl who needs a bag from work to play.

What designers inspire you?

My ultimate favorite designers have been: Jean Paul Gaultier, Alexander McQueen, & Salvatore Ferragamo as my Classic. As many designers come into my life and inspire me, these designers have held my attention for years.

What obstacles did you have to overcome?

When starting your own business as anything else it has its ups and downs. I have worked on many projects that had the potential to take me to the next level. There would be that fall out that would lose that opportunity for me. No matter how much work or energy I put into it, that is always hard to swallow because you are an emerging designer.

How did you overcome them?

I keep my head up and focus on the end result, if I work hard and keep a clear mind I am able to figure out my problems. Having your own fashion business tests your skills from every level; the success you receive is a true reflection of yourself. It is not about the money or fame; designing is about escaping reality and having the ability to think out of the box.

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

My greatest moment has been when I sold my 1^st handbag to a client.

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

The day that I started making my custom hardware rather then using stock hardware. I have designed plenty of hardware for other companies so when I got the chance to open up my designs, it makes them that much more special.

If money were no object what would you do right now?

I would go on a leather buying spree and make as many bags as I could. Being an independent designer you don’t have the luxury to develop and develop styles after styles. There are so many ideas I have on paper and in my head that making every one of them is a goal I try to attain.

What are the best and worst things about being a designer?

The best thing about being a designer is being able to use my imagination and keep my creativity flowing. I enjoy being able to have the vision to see things without being able to see them in front of me. The worst thing about being a designer is finding flaws in the world.

Describe your typical day?

My typical day is always changing; I learned to live in the moment. Since I am a one man team, I work on different aspects of my business everyday. One day I might need to be in a creative mindset and design, the next day I might need to think clearly on numbers for financing.

What’s your philosophy of life?

To take a breath when times get overwhelming, you will be able to get through this. Relax and enjoy the ride no matter how stressful times can get.

Tags: Elizabeth Phillips, Elspeth New York, emerging designers, independent designers, Leather Handbags
Posted in In the Spotlight

Jacqueline Adamany Blue Orchid Handbags

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By Blue Orchid Handbags | Sunday February 7th, 2010 | 06:25 pm | No Comments

“Don’t ever stop pushing yourself”, Jacqueline Adamany

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Jacqueline Adamany

Company/Designer Name: Blue Orchid Handbags/Jacqueline Adamany

Designer Background Summary:

With a Bachelors Degree in Visual Communication I have been designing marketing collateral and web sites for companies across the United States. I now focus my talents in a new medium…fabric…creating bags that reflect and communicate the personality of the woman holding it.

How did you get started?

I love to sew and I love handbags, it’s a match made in heaven! I began making bags for myself and was stopped many times by women wanting to know where I purchased the bag, it was then I knew I found my true calling.

What inspires your designs? I am inspired by everything around me. At times I am inspired by the fabric itself. There is something magical about taking a few yards of fabric and creating something wearable and functional.

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

My design style is somewhat architectural. I love simple shapes and beautiful fabrics. I choose material that feels great and looks great. I strive to create handbags that reflect and communicate the personality of the woman holding it. My target audience is any woman who appreciates creative style and looks for fresh designs regardless of age.

What designers inspire you? Coco Chanel – the epitome of casual elegance.

What obstacles did you have to overcome? I overcome obstacles every day. Some are small and some not so small.

How did you overcome them? I think of them as challenges and adventures. I love being challenged and who isn’t up for a great adventure.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far? My greatest moment was when I was asked to design a handbag for a bride. She wanted something special to carry small mementos of her mom and her grandmother (both gone) on her big day.

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

Sizes have changed; small design features have been added or removed. I listen to requests from my customers, they are the best teachers.

If money were no object what would you do right now? I would hire some help!

What are the best and worst things about being a designer?

The best thing about being a designer is that I love my job, period! I love the look on a woman’s face when she picks up a bag and says it’s so me. The worst part? Can’t think of anything.

Describe your typical day?

My typical day begins early in the morning answering e-mails and then the rest is a blur.

What’s your philosophy of life?

My philosophy…when times get tough and you think you cannot go another step, push harder. Don’t ever stop pushing yourself.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? I would have started designing bags a long time ago.

When will you know you have made it? When everyone owns a Blue Orchid bag.

The Blue Orchid Handbag Collection is available @The MarketPlace Noblivity.com

Tags: Blue Orchid Handbags, emerging designers, Handmade, independent designers, indie fashion, Jacqueline Adamany
Posted in In the Spotlight

Sabbah Sharma GenX ‘Independent Yet Rooted’

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By sabbah | Wednesday February 3rd, 2010 | 10:28 am | No Comments

“From an authentic life, grows a great one”, Sabbah Sharma

Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Sabbah Sharma

Company/Designer Name: Sabbah Sharma

Designer Background Summary: Even though I was always inclined to creative endeavors, I graduated with a degree in business from Wittenberg University (USA), because according to Indian norms business people make money and creative people starve. To add color to my drab business life, I did a stint in advertising, but homesickness stirred me to come back to Mumbai. A mind-numbing year at my family business and being held up at a friend’s house during the treacherous floods of Mumbai, some how lead to a new company where we designed and sold clothes in and around Mumbai.

How did you get started? The little company we started really did well and my designs were really appreciated. Thus I went to Milan to study fashion at the Istituto Marangoni to increase my technical knowledge of clothes. After my return I started a small studio and started supplying to various boutiques in India. The cloths did well and started getting recognized by various magazines, so I decided to apply at Lakhme India Fashion week. Due to the fact that the brand was only a year old I could only show in the Gennext category.

What inspires your designs? I derive my inspiration pretty much from anywhere. Nature, culture, architecture, people are all inspiring. It depends more on the my mind set at that time

How would you describe your design style, design signatures and who is your targeted customer? I design for strong independent women. My designs tend to be a combination of fluid lines, architectural and ergonomic forms.” Simple yet multifaceted, strong yet feminine, independent yet rooted”

What designers inspire you? Lanvin, Givenchy, Marni, Vera Wang to name a few.

What obstacles did you have to overcome? The only obstacle I face is brand recognition. With so many designers, talent and design can get you recognition (eventually), but knowing the right people accelerates the process. That for me is the tedious part.

How did you overcome them? Still trying to overcome it one step at a time.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far? Fashion week and opening my own store

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far? I started of doing very kitsch designs and have moved to a more classic look. I am learning my strengths and am trying to stay true to them.

If money were no object what would you do right now? Traveling the world in style.

What are the best and worst things about being a designer? The best thing is that you get to express your self every single day. You get to create something that’s tangible that represents you. The worst thing is that, you expect yourself to create something new every day and that’s not possible. The creative lulls really bring me down.

Describe your typical day? I wake up; try to motivate myself to work out. Most of the time that doesn’t work, so I go to my studio, answer my mails, make a few calls to the stores I supply to, coordinate with magazines and my pr agent. Complete orders. Design if I feel inspired and head to my store in the evening to meet personal clients or just generally check up on things.

What’s your philosophy of life? “From an authentic life, grows a great one”

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

When will you know you have made it? I don’t think will ever let myself feel like I have made it, because once you feel you have made it there is no room to grow, only to fall. There are always things to learn. The sky’s the limit.

Tags: emerging designers, independent designers, Lakhme Fashion Week, Sabbah Sharma
Posted in In the Spotlight