Style Bust
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Interview with Varunee of Sincerely, Varunee
14 years ago
I first met Varunee of Sincerely, Varunee last year while I was securing fashion designers for the Give Back Gala. Her pieces have a great mixture of design elements from deconstructed looks to more traditionally elegant looks. In addition to designing clothing, Varunee also dabbles in jewelry design. Each time I have seen her in person she has been decked out with some of her personal creations!
Varunee took some time out of her busy schedule to do an interview for Style Bust!
Style Bust: How did you get into fashion design?
Varunee: My mother was a fashion designer. I’ve always been interested in fashion ever since I was a little girl.
Style Bust: Are you designing your own collection full-time or do have another job as well?
Varunee: I have a part-time gig.
Style Bust: What did you study in college?
Varunee: I have a B.A. in English and Linguistics from Bangkok Thailand and an A.A. in Fashion Design from Brooks College in Long Beach California.
Style Bust: How has you fashion degree helped you be a successful fashion designer?
Varunee: Classes in Pattern Making and Sewing have helped me tremendously. Although I don’t make most of my patterns or sew myself, I know enough to communicate with my staff.
Style Bust: What do you enjoy most about a fashion career?
Varunee: It is very rewarding to see my clients looking beautiful in my designs. It’s so nice to see my designs enhance their beauty.
Style Bust: What is the most challenging about a fashion career?
Varunee: Trying to stay ahead of my peers.
Style Bust: If you could work for more hours per day, where would you devote the extra time and energy?
Varunee: Design, Design, Design.
Style Bust: Describe the collection you’ll be showing at the Give Back Gala.
Varunee: Deconstructed, raw-edge, funky and elegant, these are adjectives that describe my collection. My clothes are for women that are creative and not afraid to be noticed.
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
Varunee: The uniqueness of creative women.
Style Bust: Why should people come out and see your work at this show?
Varunee: To see what Sincerely, Varunee is all about.
Style Bust: How can people get in touch with you?
Varunee: www.sincerelyvarunee.com. My blog: sincerelyvarunee.wordpress.com. Telephone 925-957-6336
Traces of Americana: Rodarte Fall 2011
14 years ago
I have to admit that I haven’t been paying too much attention to NY Fashion Week. Last season, I was obsessed with seeing what each designer was creating, but this year, it seems like too much work to keep up.
Today I opened my email and the first photo I saw from Fashion Week was from the Rodarte Fall 2011 collection, and I instantly went to Style.com to see the rest of the collection.
I’m a huge fan of the Mulleavy sisters and I absolutely love the way you can directly see their inspirations in the Rodarte collections.
The Rodarte Fall 2011 collection was inspired by the American Plains and the late 1970’s movie, Days of Heaven. The collection consists of long silk gowns, prairie coats, linen blouses with full skirts, and patch like quilting, all in a very organic color palette.
I’m pretty much in love with the entire Rodarte Fall collection (love the hair, the makeup, the nail color) and I really like how beautiful, dreamy, and creative each piece is.
I just might have to check out more from Fashion Week…especially if it looks this good! Any of you have favorites from Fashion Week?
What’s the Internet? 1994 Segment of NBC’s The Today Show
14 years ago
Seventeen years ago I was 11, Ace of Base was the biggest band, Mrs. Doubtfire was the box office hit, and The Today Show’s Katie Couric and Bryant Gumbel we trying to familiarize themselves with the internet. In the following video segment from January 1994, the news anchors and their staff talk briefly about what the internet is. Gumbel isn’t sure how to pronounce “@”, and no one says “dot” when they read “.com”. They have to ask a crew member to clarify how the internet works. Do you write to it like mail? Is it just in Universities? Does it require a phone line?
This video is a reminder of how unprepared the mainstream media was for the internet.
Less isn’t Always More- Take a Hint from Bambi
14 years ago
While I’ve never been one to pluck my eyebrows regularly, I’ve often wondered and perhaps admired those who endure such pain and maintain their eyebrows so well. Often times, their eyebrows are plucked, waxed, or threaded in the utmost perfect shape without a single hair out of line. And while often times the phrase, “less is more” holds true, in the case of eyebrows, I’ve begun to think otherwise. One model in particular (or should I say one model’s eyebrows) who has caught my eye is Bambi Northwood. She exudes charm sans excessive effort and grooming.
She has genuine, natural beauty, and her eyebrows are stunning! In her photos and her runway shows, Bambi’s eyebrows are wild yet reserved, innocent yet fierce. There’s just something about her that seems real. In terms of her natural look, there’s a Brook Shields quality about her, and she is definitely proud of her eyebrows, claiming them as her favorite feature. In fact, more and more we’re seeing runway models with the “less groomed look,” looking more human and less mannequin-like. Take a look at Alexander Wang’s Fall 2011 show, where make-up artists used eyeliner and shadow to draw in larger, thicker eyebrows. Now we’re seeing that the thin, over-plucked trend is out, and the voluptuous brow look is in! So, if you’re feeling regretful about your latest wax/threading/tweezer rendezvous, relax, your brows can and will always grow back. And in the meantime, try a shadow or liner, and you’ll be looking like Ms. Bambi in no time. The next time you’re considering a brow appointment or a self-grooming session, try eliminating only those stray hairs for a fuller, rawer look.
OPI: Black Shatter for Katty Perry and Serena Williams
14 years ago
The latest from OPI are these awesome colors made celebrities Katty Perry and Serena Williams. Recently I read an article in Vogue “She’s got game” where the interviewer received a manicure from Serena Williams. She’s really into getting her degree and knowing everything there is to know about the industry.
Now in partnership with OPI she has the Glam Slam collection.The first from the collection is a green lacquer called Simply Smashing with Black Shatter to complete the duo.
The same effect can be achieved with the Katy Perry collection. With colors such as Teenage Dream, Not Like the Movies, Last Friday Night and The One that Got Away combined with Black Shatter.
This new look is hard to find. I checked on several beauty supply stores in San Diego who carry the OPI line and most didn’t have either of these collections. Finally I found one that did, but according to the beauty assistant, they sell out very quickly. They should get a new shipment next week and several people are already waiting for it. I’ll be sure to be there and get one for myself so I can tell you more about it. Stay tuned!
Never Say Never
14 years ago
I guess it should be no surprise to any of you that I went to see the Justin Bieber movie today. But I honestly wasn’t sure if I was going to actually spend my money to go see it. Movies aren’t exactly my thing and I had no intentions of checking out Never Say Never. While the movie trailers sparked my interest I also had thought to myself, why does this kid need a movie? It’s about his rise to fame and its like, isn’t that what True Hollywood Story is for? I also felt like they were taking advantage of the Bieber fan base, knowing that Beliebers do not disappoint and would indefinitely show up at the box office whether the movies was good or bad.
Here’s the honest, non-biased truth; the movie did not suck. His story is so beautiful, unique, and inspirational. And while much of the content certainly could be featured on True Hollywood Story the movie was created to reach a wider audience. Unfortunately, I think the biggest challenge is going to get non-Beliebers to watch Never Say Never. Because if you don’t like Bieber then I’m sure your thinking that there is nothing in the movie that will interest you.
I’m telling you this movie caters to everyone. It fascinated me as someone that wants to learn and know everything on the business side of the music industry. My roommate, an artist herself became extremely inspired by his drive, passion, and determination. The children in the theater were entertained by the music and production of his concerts. I was also impressed with Justin Bieber’s family, how incredibly supportive they all have been and how they are trying to keep Justin grounded.
Number one reason why YOU should see this movie, the story is about believing in yourself and making your dreams come true, and lets be honest, we all can relate to having a dream. If you do take my advice and check out the film please let me know your thoughts. It’s getting rave reviews from critics. I truly don’t think there is one negative thing you can say about the movie. I’m beyond interested to know what everyone else is thinking about it. Have you caught the Bieber Fever yet?
The brown boot hunt begins
14 years ago
A couple days ago my sister sent me a text, asking me to help her find a pair of “non-trendy brown boots.” At first I thought this was going to be a challenge. In my mind “non-trendy” meant old lady, but after visiting a couple of my favorite shoe websites, I soon realized that a non-trendy boot doesn’t have to lack in style, it just needs to be reliable and something that can be worn to death!
Top Row: Luca Valentini, Bandolino, ESSEutESSE
Middle Row: Indigo by Clarks, MIA, La Soffitta di Gilda
Bottom Row: Pour la Victoire, Apepazza, Born
While searching for the perfect brown boot, I decided to stay away from websites like Aldo and Urban Outfitters (those are my go-to sites for a real trendy shoe), and visit sites like Zappos and Yoox, where they have tons of options and sales!
Keeping my sisters style and comfort in mind, I found boots that were durable, not too high (so she’s able to wear them all day), can be worn with both her skinny jeans and wide leg pants and most importantly, affordable (they’re all under $200).
Now that I’ve done my job, we’ll have to see if I did my job well!
Simply beautiful: Interview with Aiprll of aiprllloveshenry
14 years ago
There are so many independent jewelry designers out there, it can be hard to keep track of all of your favorites. But here at Style Bust, we’re trying to make life a little easier by introducing you to some extremely talented designers that we know you’ll love!
Recently a fellow designer sent me a link to a Bay area jewelry designer, aiprllloveshenry. I instantly went to her Etsy store and fell in love with Aiprll’s delicate and beautifully designed works of art!
I had the chance to ask Aiprll a few questions to find out more about her design process and inspiration for creating such gorgeous jewelry.
Style Bust: When and how did you get started in jewelry making?
I was working at the MAC counter at Nordstrom, it was my last day (I was newly married and tired of retail) and I was helping a woman with lipstick. I asked what she did and she said “I make jewelry.”
Flashing lights and sirens went off in my head. I had been wanting to learn how but wasn’t sure where to start. She gave me her number and I started going to her house and she showed me the ropes. Her name is Pamela and her line is Juicy Jewelry. To this day she is my jewelry icon. I’ll always look up to her.
SB: Where can readers find your jewelry?
You can find my jewelry on Etsy at www.etsy.com/shop/aiprllloveshenry and you can be my fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aiprllloveshenry or follow me on Twitter: twitter.com/aiprll You can also host a jewelry party. This is a great way to get the girls together, have some wine, and be able to try on my jewelry in the comfort of your home. Plus you’ll get some freebies.
SB: How would you describe and think of your style, what kind of jewelry do you make and what type of materials do you prefer?
I would describe my style as somewhat minimalist. I love a delicate chain with just a few things dangling from it, or a single stone gently hanging from the center. I like this look because you can layer it with other things, or you can wear it alone, not as a statement, but as an “understatement.” I just made that up. I think.
I also like necklaces long enough that they go into the cleavage. Sometimes when you can’t see the whole thing it’s sexier. The chain becomes like a beautiful trail that converges down and goes where no one else can! Like a sexy secret.
I work mainly in sterling silver and 14k gold vermeil. Once in a while I’ll use plated chain if I’m experimenting with something that requires a lot of chain, or something costume-jewelryish, which has its own merits because it has a feel that is funner (is that a word) and not so serious.
SB: Who is the aiprllloveshenry client?
The aiprllloveshenry client ranges. It’s everyone from the teenager who wants the lucite necklace, to the 30-something administrative assistant who goes for cocktails after work and wants to wear something that dangles and sparkles, to the 55-year old woman who has accomplished a lot and wants more of an accent piece.
SB: I love taking a look into creative work spaces…what is your studio or workspace like, and how do you work in your studio?
Well…you’ll find my cat Enzo in the corner on his cat bed, silently keeping me company. If I happen to be working with chain that hits the floor, he’ll abandon his bed (amazingly) to bat at it or bite it. The latter which i don’t allow. I have a very messy table with all kind of tools, instruments, and gems. I *try* to keep it clean, but appreciate the mess as an extension of my artistic endeavors and unyielding creativity. Which basically means ‘it may look like a mess but I know where everything is.’ I also have an inspiration board hanging on the wall. It has everything from pictures to ribbons to things I want to use for my next designs.
SB: What is your typical day like? What keeps you inspired and motivated?
My typical day is not typical. But the one constant is I get up around 7am and have coffee with my husband. I then jokingly hear about how my coffee is always inconsistent and how is it possible for someone who has been making coffee for 6 years to make it so different every day? I silently attribute this to my artistic temperament. Measure things? No thanks.
What keeps me inspired and motivated? It can be seeing something in a magazine or on TV that spurns me to action and and I’ll put my own twist on it. I try to avoid perusing other websites. I like knowing that my ideas were not born from someone else. But if it’s in a magazine I feel less guilt for being inspired.
SB: What do you love most about designing and creating your own jewelry?
I love the ego boost of knowing that that’s your creation. You made it with your own hands and someone liked it enough to hang it around their neck or stick it in their ears. Seeing your work on someone gives you a new perspective. Just like an artist sees his painting differently when it’s exhibited in a gallery versus leaning against the wall in his studio. It takes on the other person’s life and becomes like a collaboration.
I also love being creative. That’s why I’m not sitting behind a computer for 8 hours a day anymore. I needed to create. And not just Word documents. I needed to satisfy the longing of my hands.
SB: What is the most difficult aspect of running your own design business?
The technical stuff. The taxes, the receipts, the records, the mileage, the this, the that.
SB: From your current collection, are there any pieces you think every woman should own?
I have my favorites, but those would probably be different from yours. What do you think?
SB: I have a couple favorites! The velvet meets chain necklace and I love the delicate heart necklace (shown below).
SB: Do you have big plans for aiprllloveshenry, new ideas or designs you will be exploring soon?
I’m working on reworking vintage pieces and incorporating that into my collection. I’m excited about that because you’re capitalizing on someone’s great idea and making it even greater. You’re working with what was someone’s energy and thought process and you’re adding your breath of life to it.
SB: And last of all – who is Henry?
He was my big brother who died when he was just 27. He was an inspiration to me in life, so I’ve done my best to immortalize him in death. His body was never found, which means he was never buried or cremated. That is why it is important for me to honor him in some small way. You can find out more details on my Etsy or Facebook page. I don’t know what became of any of his friends, but I hope one day I can be connected with them because I would love to hear their memories of him, and get to know a side of my brother that I never knew. His name was Henry Miranda, Jr. and he was from Santa Barbara.
A huge thank you to Aiprll for taking the time out of her hectic schedule and for creating such beautiful and inspirational jewelry. Here at Style Bust, we’re looking forward to seeing more from aiprllloveshenry!