”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…