Posts tagged San Francisco
Interview with Ashley Ording of Fancy Fine
13 years ago
{Ashley and I in the dressing room- photo taken on my phone}
Just over a week ago I went to the fabulous vintage clothing expo (mentioned hereand here) and while there I spotted one of my favorite fashion bloggers (Ashley of Fancy Fine, who also lives in S.F.). I instantly felt butterflies take over my stomach, almost like I was a little kid again. My boyfriend and sister encouraged me to introduce myself but me being the shy girl that I am was hesitant at first. It wasn’t until it was just me and Ashley in the dressing room that I got up the courage to talk to her. It was one of the most surreal experiences I have had and her humble and sweet personality will always stick with me. I took this opportunity to ask Ashley a few questions and I hope her answers are as inspiring to you as they were to me. Enjoy!
1. What made you start your blog, Fancy Fine?
I found myself reading more and more style blogs a few years ago (when they first became popular) and I was so inspired by the interesting and eclectic style that was represented. I was already comfortable with having a personal site because I’d kept an online journal of sorts since I was 13, which then became a photography portfolio. But seeing that it could be this very specific thing, a place to share my vintage obsession, is what finally motivated me to make the blog. I really had to convince myself it wasn’t a silly, pointless endeavor… but I’m so glad I went for it!
2. Your style is unbelievably sweet, fun & vibrant. What tips do you have for vintage shopping and ‘thrifting’?
Thank you! The only “tip” that ever really comes to mind is to buy what you love. I am rarely searching for anything specific when I go to a thrift store, flea market or vintage shop. I just look at everything and buy what speaks to me (corny as that sounds). I keep my mind open and sometimes let myself go for something crazy without a second thought just because it makes me happy to look at it. This way of shopping means that every piece in my wardrobe feels like a favorite… I don’t buy basics just because I think I “need” them. I’d rather spend my money on a beautiful lace dress! I also try not to let other people influence me too much when I’m shopping, which is why I usually go alone. That way I can take my sweet time and not have to seek the approval of anyone else.
3. What are some of your favorite spots and/or vintage shops in S.F.?
There are so many… we’re lucky folks here! The best thrift shops are in the Mission district. Thrift Town, Mission Thrift and Clothes Contact are a few of my favorites. As for vintage, I have excellent luck on Haight Street at Wasteland, Held Over and Static. I also do love getting out of the city from time to time and checking in one on some of my top secret favorite vintage places! But you’d have to get me quite drunk before I gave those up. 🙂
4. If you could choose a different decade to live in which one would it be and why?
I think it would have been amazing to be a young adult in the 20’s for a million different reasons: jazz music, the clothes, the hilarious dances that were all the rage, the general excitement of things being so new and fresh. But I also think I would have fit into the early 60’s quite well too. I’ve always had a soft spot for early 60’s music and fashion.
5. Who is your personal favorite style icon?
I have a few: Anna Karina, Chloe Sevigny, Eva Fontanelli, and a smattering of fellow bloggers who inspire me daily!
6. What advice can you give to new girls starting fashion blogs?
Be bold and have fun! Also, creating as much original content as possible is very important to me. The blogs that I enjoy the most are the ones that feature the style and surroundings of the person behind them, and not necessarily a lot of content culled from other places. So, invest in a great camera and just document the hell out of everything. I also find it’s helpful to join a site like Chictopia or Lookbook.nu and post photos on there as well because the audience is built-in and they will visit your blog if they like what they see.
Interview with San Francisco Fashion Designer Catalina Alcala
13 years ago
San Francisco based fashion designer Catalina Alcala will début her new collection next weekend at the Give Back Gala Charity Event in San Francisco. The event will be held on April 2nd at the J.W. Marriott. As the fashion show producer I have spent a good amount of time with Catalina. She has been a pleasure to work with, and I’m getting very anxious to see what her collection looks like (I get a sneak peek this Saturday at our Dress Rehearsal!).
I spent some time with Catalina and put together this interview for you to read.
Style Bust: How did you get into fashion design?
I was a wee little one when I would see my mom working on her sewing machine; she scolded me once for holding pins in my lips in a seamstress manner! I loved drawing and would scavenge the house looking for anything to fill with my 3 year old interpretation of fashion. At 7 I learned the definition of fashion designer and decided that’s what I wanted to be!
Catalina's sketch of the rad, belt movement of the 1980's
A more recent fashion sketch of Catalina's.
Style Bust: What is your philosophy on fashion?
Innovation, explore the impossible.
Style Bust: Where and what did you study in college?
Lovely San Francisco, The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. Fashion Design of course. I would re-live those years in a heartbeat, as heavy as the work load was and as long as those late nights seemed, doing it.
Style Bust: Are you working on your fashion line full time? If not, what else do you do for work?
No, I’m here and there freelancing for the Gap Inc. assisting both technical and design teams. I was also doing some freelance writing for Fashion Nomad. They developed a new shopping app, where you can find my reviews for stores and boutiques from around the world.
Style Bust: What’s your favorite part about designing?
Spilling my ideas and everything that is swimming in my brain on to that sheet of paper. Going as far out…as you dream. Then seeing the final work come to life!
Style Bust: Describe the collection you’ll be showing at the Give Back Gala.
Dresses galore! Body hugging pieces to dainty, breezy ones with a forties flare in vibrant colors. Very Copacabana, skipping to a fresher, prismatic beat.
Style Bust: What inspires you?
I’m always inspired by fashion from the past twisted with my love for color, architecture and of course the beauty of nature. Even my best friend has the ability to inspire me through her words.
Style Bust: How can people get in touch with you?
Drop me a line at: [email protected]
Classic Stripes
13 years ago
{jumper:vintage nicole miller blazer:elizabeth & james shoes:jeffrey campbell bag:vintage chanel necklace:marc jacobs}
I have the same relationship with stripes as I do with polka dots (mentioned here). Stripes, like polka dots, are a classic pattern that when worn right, can never get old or go out of style. I recently bought this vintage Nicole Miller jumper (yes, there are bike shorts built in), from a friend of mine and I’ve been dying to wear it. The weather lately hasn’t been cooperating so in return I decided to brave the windy wet outdoors with my playful yet sophisticated look; you can always make a jumper more mature if you pair it with a structured blazer. It’s not like I was trying to be professional while shopping at the vintage clothing expo, I just couldn’t bare putting a raincoat on that would cover my outfit.
Interview with Ericka of Ericka Engelman Couture
13 years ago
Ericka Engelman is an established designer in Carmel, CA. Ericka designs under the self titled line Ericka Engelman Couture. Ericka has been involved in a number of international fashion shows, and has a great network of followers and supports throughout the Bay Area. Ericka will be showcasing her collection at this years Give Back Gala, which will be held on April 2nd at the J.W. Marriott in San Francisco.
Ericka spent some time with me to answer a couple of questions about her fashion business.
Style Bust: How did you get started in fashion design?
Pretty much at my mothers knee, I loved watching her create and sew and just as soon as I could reach the sewing machine petal I was sewing too. it seemed like magic to me , to be able to create something out of thought inspiration and fabric. I was creating and sewing for my junior high school friends and doing small local craft fairs when I understood the next magic thing about sewing and that is I could make money at it. The third and most important magic thing about design/creating came to me later. I learned that being able to help someone feel and look more beautiful then they have ever felt before is one of the most soul satisfying things one can achieve.
Style Bust: Are you designing full-time?
Yes I have the great good fortune to be in my 25th year of business in fact April 1st, the day before the Give back gala it will be 25 years. I have a wonderful staff that make it fun and challenging to go to work each day. With out them, a wonderful understanding husband and a lot good luck I would not have been able to live my dream.
Style Bust: What did you study in college?
I graduated out of 11th grade and went right into the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, with a full scholarship. At that time the college was only two floors of a furniture building in downtown Los Angeles, they like me have come a long way.
Style Bust: What do you enjoy most about being a fashion designer?
It changes, because we are a couture house and design for our clients the design work is varied and I enjoy the challenge of that. I also like the physical act of sewing and creating fine embellishments . I
also have to say I enjoy the jazz of business which is a good thing because if you don’t embrace that part of your design career your in for some hard knocks.
Style Bust: What’s the most challenging part of the business?
Staying fresh,looking for new inspiration and especially new fabric and fabric treatments. we have lost a lot of our best mills worldwide and the array of colors and textiles have greatly diminished.
Style Bust: Describe the collection you’ll be showing at this years Give Back Gala.
I describe my collection as California bohemian with a European edge. I’m using a lot of colorful and luxurious fabrics , I’m even having some prints made for me. The style ranges from daytime play, daytime
work, casual evening, to all out evening and bridal. The cornerstone belief of my business is that all women deserve beautiful clothes that really fit. Our clients come in all shapes, sizes, ages and lifestyles. These pieces are designed to fit the many worlds we live in.
Style Bust: Why should people come and see the show?
This is wonderful opportunity to see a variety of fresh young designers sharing their personal passion with the world. Where else can you experience beauty while supporting noble causes?As to the question,why did I want to participate? It has been a difficult couple of years for our nation and our world and I wanted to work toward something that was collaborative , beautiful and uplifting after all that really is what fashion is all about, xoxo.
Style Bust: How can people learn more about your collection, brand, etc?
Q and A with SF Based Fashion Designer Jess Lindgren
13 years ago
I’ve been fortunate enough to know Jess Lindgren for all my life since she’s my older sister. I have fond memories of putting on fashion shows in our backyard as young girls. It’s been a lot of fun to watch her grow into the stylist and designer she is today with her self titled label Jess Lindgren. She’s gives me a lot of outfit advice, helpful pointers, and recaps of the best fashion trends. I can’t even begin to count the number of times she’s outfitted me for parties and events.
Here are a couple of questions and answers with Jessi Lindgren, my sister.
Style Bust: How did you get into fashion design?
It kind of just happened. I’ve always been into clothing, but actually designing and making clothes started a few years back when my parents gave me a sewing machine for Christmas. Since then I’ve been making clothing for my sister and myself. Anytime we have an event or family function to attend I make our dresses!
But, I used to make clothes for my Barbie’s – maybe you could say my interest in fashion design started back then!
Style Bust: What is your philosophy on fashion?
I’m a believer in wearing the old with the new. Trends can be very uniform looking which is why I love mixing a trend with something classic or vintage. Mixing adds a little character and personality to an outfit. Though, I’d say above anything else, its most important to wear whatever makes you feel good!
Style Bust: Where and what did you study in college?
I took some classes at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Upon learning how awesome San Diego was, I transferred to FIDM in San Diego and studied Merchandise Marketing.
Style Bust: Are you working on your fashion line full-time? If not, what else do you do for work?
Unfortunately for me, designing clothes doesn’t pay the bills. You’ll find me at the Woodhouse Fish Co. most days, serving some amazing lobster rolls and other seafood goodies! And you can read my weekly blog posts right here at Stylebust.com.
Style Bust: What’s your favorite part about designing?
It’s really rewarding to have an idea, buy some fabric and in the end be able to say, “wow, I actually made this!”. It’s exciting to see someone wearing your designs!
Style Bust: Describe the collection you’ll be showing at the Give Back Gala.
I’m designing a resort-wear collection that has a bohemian vibe. And for once, you’ll see NO black!
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
My inspiration for the color story comes from a photograph my boyfriend took on our drive back from Stanislaus Forest. It just finished raining and the colors were absolutely gorgeous. As far as my designs go, I was inspired by rockstar girlfriends from the 70’s (Bianca Jagger, Francoise Hardy, Jane Birkin – you get the picture).
Style Bust: Why should people come out and see your work at this show?
I don’t think anyone should attend the Give Back Gala just to see my collection, I think people should come out and support two great charities and see some extremely talented and hard-working designers!
Style Bust: How can people learn more about your designs?
You can visit my website: Jess Lindgren (thanks to Nicole and Tyler for hooking me up)! Or email me [email protected]
Interview with Sacramento Based Fashion Designer Tiana Vega
13 years ago
Tiana Vega is my favorite thing about Sacramento, California. She is upbeat and a ton of fun to be around. Her personality comes through in her unique self titled clothing line Tiana Vega. I’m looking froward to working with her for the upcoming Give Back Gala fashion show.
Here’s a couple of questions and answers with Tiana.
Style Bust: How did you get into fashion design?
I have always had an eye for fashion. My infatuation in the fashion industry stems from my the early years of my childhood so I knew exactly what I wanted to do when I grew up. After high school I attended FIDM where I got my degree and have been working freelance ever since!
Style Bust: What did you think about the fashion school experience?
I attended FIDM in Los Angeles to obtain my degree in fashion design, my experience there was nothing short of amazing! I met a lot of great people who I still keep in contact with! It’s always fun to see what everyone else is doing with their experiences they’ve gained after school!
Style Bust: Are you working on your fashion line full-time?
Yes I am. This is my job…I eat, breath and live for designing! I couldn’t see be happier doing anything else.
Style Bust: How long have you been designing fashion as an independent designer?
I have been designing fashion as an independent designer for about 2 years now.
Style Bust: Describe the collection you’ll be showing at the Give Back Gala.
The collection has a 1940’s flair with intricate beading and beautiful style and cuts in each piece.
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
This collection is actually inspired by my grandmother who passed away in November, I was close with her and so losing her was pretty hard on me and my family…but I decided to use her sense of elegant and graceful style to inspire me to create a beautiful collection dedicated to her and the beautiful woman she was.
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
Well this collection has a fresh new take on the following seasons coming up, so if you’re a fashionista and you are always looking for new and exciting fashion forward pieces, than coming out to the fashion is a must!
Style Bust: What have been some of your biggest accomplishments as a designer?
One of my biggest accomplishments was when I teamed up with a nonprofit know as Sweet Dreams Foundation and produced one of the largest fashion shows in Sacramento, raising a good amount of not only publicity for our charity but the money they needed to help a local child get the remodeled room she had always wanted.
Style Bust: Where can people find out more about your collection?
To learn more about me and my designs you can go to my website at www.tianavega.com.
Q and A with SF Based Fashion Designer Jennifer Ly
13 years ago
I’ve been working with Jennifer Ly over the past couple months in preparation to the Give Back Gala, which she will be participating in as a designer. I’ve asked her a couple of quick questions to help our readers get to know here before the big event!
Style Bust: How did you get into fashion design?
Completely by chance, although I’ve always been interested in fashion even at the earliest age of my life. I actually majored in Computer Science before deciding to pursue fashion.
Style Bust: Where did you study, and what did you think about the fashion school experience?
I studied at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in San Francisco. My school experience was fast and intense. My teachers were amazing and pointed me in the right direction to reach my full creative potential. I really owe a lot of what I’ve accomplished in my career to me stepping stones at FIDM.
Style Bust: You’re working full-time at Gap Inc. Can you tell us a little bit about your role there?
I’m currently a Designer for OLD NAVY. I design all the denim and woven bottoms for girls ages 5-16. I design all silhouettes, washes and finishes, and manage all product from development to production.
Style Bust: How long have you been designing fashion as an independent designer?
I haven’t been designing fashion as an independent designer at all. Upon graduating from FIDM I got several freelance design gigs and never really had the time to focus on my own work. This collection is my first I’ve ever done.
Style Bust: Describe the collection you’ll be showing at the Give Back Gala.
My collection is playful and quaint. I love the use of clean lines with a variety of textures and mixed symmetry. The color palette is soft with tones of white, grey, blk and mauve.
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
The collection was inspired by whimsical winter snow. I was inspired by 70’s silhouettes and early roman body adornment.
Interview with Indu Arora of RockChiq
13 years ago
Indu Arora is an established designer in South Bay who makes very high quality, tailored women’s clothing under the label RockChiq. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work with her during this year’s Give Back Gala, which will be held on April 2nd at the J.W. Marriott in San Francisco.
I spent some time with Indu for an interview, enjoy!
Style Bust: How did you get into fashion design?
I was artistic and sketchy form young age, that’s when my mother taught me how to sew. My elementary/middle school back in India had students from almost all parts of world. I remember a student named Uday from Africa, Arman from Iran, Urmi from London. At this school we had a global fashion scene in one place. My Passion for fashion developed at young age.
Style Bust: Where and what did you study in college?
I am self-taught in this discipline. Back in India; where I come from, I was majoring in medicine. I went through a career change into fashion when I came to USA.
Style Bust: Are you working on RockChiq full-time?
Yes I am working full-time for fashion although this line is financially supported by my parent company Indu Fashion Services Inc. A California corporation providing designing and production services to other start-ups.
Style Bust: How long have you been designing as an independent fashion designer?
I have designed for the past 3 years.
Style Bust: You are an established Bay Area designer, tell us about your journey.
I migrated to USA in 1998 after getting married. As I mentioned earlier, I was majoring in medicine back in India. That same year, the HBO show Sex and the City aired its first season, and I instantly fell in love with the fashion scene of the sitcom. It was so inspiring I made up my mind to chase my passion for fashion and take it to next level.
I started freelancing my designs to independent clients. One day a client on the East Coast called and asked me to handle their denim line. I accepted the project. By this time, I had made few connections back in India with manufacturers and such. That started my parent company Indu Fashion Services Inc. Today I have 8-10 steady clients whose entire line of clothing from sampling to production is handled by me.
That became the base of financing for my Ready to Wear line for women under the brand name RockChiq which launched in year 2008. I roll out two collections annually during the Summer and Fall. I am placing myself in Boutiques in and around Bay area since last year . The response has been good and I am getting buyers attention. I’ve recently been invited to take part in the FOCUS Apparel & Accessories Show as an emerging brand. This show goes hand in hand with LA Fashion Week.
Style Bust: Why should people come out and see your work at this show?
This collection is all about high end evening dresses and gowns.
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
The inspiration for this collection is basically San Francisco fashion crowd. We see such crowds in many small and big fashion shows all around SF Bay area. High end social events and parties such as those hosted by Trendy Lime are good examples of my inspiration. In a timely fashion some of the very high-end parties and events. I always add to my clients list every time I have attended their parties.
Style Bust: Style Bust: Why should people come out and see your work at this show?
My designs are very tailored high-end look .I put my passion into it. If any one is looking for high end sophisticated, colorful eclectic evening dresses and gowns; this is the collection to see as you will find something for yourself.
Style Bust: Where can people find your clothing?
My collection sis visible online at www.rockchiq.com. On my ecommerce site: Pink Weave. They can buy it at four stores where I am retailing from RAGS CO-OP and LOFT in SF, Isabellas’s boutique in Sunnyvale, Ayurvastram in Los Altos.
Check out Indu’s interview on Joonbug Glam Damn It!
