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7 in 2007

Below is fredflare.com's 7 in 2007. The noteworthy list is filled with inspirational upcoming talent. "Inspiring" styleshaker.com to create its own list for Austin.

Fashion Designer: ALISON KELLY from Project Runway Season 3
Retailer: STEPHANIE DELEAU of Noisette
Design Blogger: GRACE BONNEY of Design*Sponge. She has a great site highlight one of Austin's most notable talents Alyson Fox.
Illustrator and Crafter: MARILYN PATRIZIO of M.Patrizio
Musician: ERIKA FORSTER of Au Revior Simone
Magazine Maven: SAMANTHA MOELLER of Missbehave
Street and Heart Artist: CHRIS UPHUES

Below is a list of my picks for Austin's top 7 in 2007. Take a look, we guarantee you will see these names in "big bright lights" someday.

Fashion Designer: ALYSON FOX
Retailer: JENNY FORGERY of the Menagerie revisits the importance of traditional gestures. As Austin's real life Ms.Etiquette, she reccommends for 2007 to bring hostess/host gifts, write those thank you notes and enjoy the finer details.
Fashion Force (coordinating, marketing, ambassadors): JESSE KELLY-LANDES of AMET and SASHA, JENNIFER PERKINS of Naughty Secretary Club, TINA SPARKLES of Sparkle Craft and Karly Hand of Identity Crisis Clothing.
Design Blogger: FRUGAL-FASHIONISTA, styleshaker.com's most recent editorial edition to the team.
Illustrator and Crafter: CHANDRA MICHAELS, Sugarluxe . Chandra continues to gain both national and international attention for her amazing artistic style. The illustrative wonder has extended her "canvas" to include mobile downloads, laptop covers, e-cards and affordable wall art.
Gloss and Glam Magazine: Mr. "Square Pocket" Lance Morgan of Brilliant Magazine. His tri-city reach into a socialite's world of finer living resonates among the world og chamagne flutes and stunning beauties.
Most Stylish Spots: Hotels San Jose or Four Seasons - They are both great places to stop in for a quick see and be seen cocktail.

designer insider
posted - beth / 1:46 PM / 01.10.07

Beth Perkins

Here is my most recent interview with super mommy, Beth Perkins. Within two years, she has managed to turn her latest project, maternity wear for the everyday hip "mommy" into a total success. Building from her "phase one" line of creative tanks and tees, Beth will be debuting her first full collection for her third "baby" - Mommy-Go-Round this Spring.
Here is a Q&A with the busy mommy of two.

Q: Do you have formal training in clothing design?

No, I received undergraduate degrees in Accounting and Finance with a minor in Spanish from Texas Christian University. Later, I received a MBA from University of Texas. I have worked in Public Accounting, Industry Accounting and Internet Consulting.

....I knew that there were a lot of things that I did not know and would need to learn about the industry. So, I decided that I would launch the business in two phases. The first phase was the tees/tanks segment. I wanted to start in the shallow end, rather than jumping into the deep end, to allow myself time to learn about the industry, make contacts, establish a reputation as a quality manufacturer, and build accounts. Then, using this knowledge and these contacts, it would be easier to move into the full line of dresses, pants, tops, skirts, etc.

Q: What is the idea behind Mommy-Go-Round?

The entire premise of the line is that, while pregnant, you should be able to dress like you did prior to becoming pregnant. The only difference in the clothing should be the fit, not the style. So many maternity options are very clearly 'maternity clothes', as opposed to stylish clothes that are made for a pregnant woman. I found that, when pregnant, I wore things that I never would have worn while not pregnant. This shouldn't have to be the case. You should be able to maintain your sense of style and still look good, even with a changing shape. So, Mommy-Go-Round is about offering affordable, trendy, flattering, styles clothes, to accommodate a pregnant body.

(Katy Reversible Grecian Dress, Spring 2007 Collection)

Q: What type of buzz has Mommy-Go-Round generated?

A: Mommy-Go-Round has been featured in the Austin Business Journal, 512 Magazine, My CiCy, Style Bakery, Ned and Shell, She Finds, TCU Magazine, and LA Splash. Mommy-Go-Round has been invited to participate in various events, including Jayneoni's Hollywood Baby Shower (in New York) and the Silver Spoon Dog and Baby Buffet (in LA).

Q: Who are the celebrity which wear Momm-Go-Round?

Celebrities who have owned Mommy-Go-Round pieces include:

· Amy Acker - Alias, How I Met Your Mother, Angel
· Tori Spelling
· Zorianna Kit - TV Guide
· Mira Sorvino
· Liv Tyler
· Jennifer Garner
· Britney Spears
· Brooke Shields
· Emily Rutherford - The New Adventures of Old Christine,
· Kristin Bellamy - wife of Bill Bellamy - Fastlane
· Shanna Moakler
· Victoria Fuller - The Amazing Race
· Vanessa Bryant - wife of Kobe Bryant
· LOCAL - Amy Henry Deane - The Apprentice
· LOCAL - Tracey Overbeck Stead - Interior Designer of Nokonah, 34th Street Café and more


(Here's looking at you, kid)

Q: What do you wear each day?

Now, everything said about how much I love and appreciate fashion, my daily 'uniform' is yoga/leisure-style pants with tank tops or layered tees and usually flip-flops. I think that it is important to be comfortable and not worry about getting dirty or 'messed up' when you are with your kids. On the few occasions that I do get dressed to go out, I like to wear flirty dresses with stacked heels or jeans with an unusual silk top and heels or boots. I love little details that make an item different, be it the buttons, the fabric or an interesting ruffle. I am currently in a very romantic phase, in both my designs and my personal style, so everything tends to be very flowing, with sweet details... nothing too hugging or body-conscious.

Q: What would be your perfect getaway?

A: Ah - my perfect getaway would probably not include going out (or clothes) at all. I am so rarely ever alone, with down-time, that the perfect get-away would probably be a spa day, where I could be alone, not have to talk, not worry about hair, make-up or clothes and could just be pampered.

You can find Mommy-Go-Round within thirty-six states and at Due Maternity within Austin, Texas.

designer insider
posted - beth / 1:51 PM / 01.01.07

Susan Domelsmith

Susan Domelsmith, the creator and designer of the Dirty Librarian Chains collection, is an Austin talent "blazing new trails".

I dropped by the Dirty Librarian Chains Trunk Show at the Factory People to meet the designer. She made a special stop for the two-day trunk show before meeting her family for the holidays. The Dirty Librarian Chains collection of necklaces and earrings range in price from $25 to $240 making it easy for anyone to afford a piece with an "elegant beauty, edgy and humorous twist".

Building from her success in Austin, Susan now lives in Brooklyn where she continues to earn international buzz.

(Above: Designer Susan Domelsmith wearing my favorite piece (Card Catalog LKBK Small) from her current collection)

Q: What inspired you to start your collection?

I had been looking for a specific type of necklace for awhile, but I was unable to find the perfect one. One day, I decided to take matters into my own hands and create a necklace for myself. I went to a thrift store, bought a few necklaces, and then proceeded to deconstruct, tangle and mix them up until I had several new pieces that I loved!

Q: What inspires and influences your designs?

I have always had a love for vintage and antique furniture, jewelry and clothing. I see so many different vintage jewelry pieces everyday, so they definitely have an influence on my designs. I also like things that are elegantly beautiful but still have an edgy and humorous twist. My classical training in studio art also has a huge influence on me.

Q: What are a few top picks on your play list?

Music has always been a big part of my life. I listen to music all day long as I am making jewelry, so it is also a very important influence on the line. Here is a list of the things that I have been listening to the most lately: No Comprendo mixes by Prince Language, Rub N Tug, Out Hud , BBC Radio 1 (I love learning about new artists!), Old Disco like Patrice Rushen, Most of the bands on DFA (especially LCD Soundsystem- their 45 minute Nike track is amazing!) and NPR (I've got to stay on top of current events!)

Q: When did you realize you had a following?

Lately I have been meeting people that are already familiar with the line already without me having to describe what I do. It still amazes me when people I've never met before know who I am!


Q: When did you move to Brooklyn?

I moved there in January of 06 from Texas, so the winter surprised me! I've been living there about a year now.

Q: What advantages does living in Brooklyn afford you?

It is really easy to meet people that are creative and working in really interesting fields. I love the energy and the excitement that the social environment of New York offers. All of the fun things to do in the city are also a huge draw for me.

Q: Is there is a reason behind the Lola Bag?

Suzie Rapp, of Rapp and Posavek, and I have been friends for a long time. We worked together at a vintage store (Flipnotics) through college, and have stayed in touch over the years. We also both worked for FactoryPeople, and thought it would be amazing if we could come together to create a bag with a detachable necklace for the handle.

(Take my word - I have touched this bag and the leather feels like butter and the dettachable chain is completely signature. Simply click to shop.)

Q: Where can we find more Dirty Librarian Chains?

I sell to about 20 stores nationwide, as well as to Harvey Nichols in London. You can check out dirtylibrarianchains.com to see my complete list of stockists.

Q: How has Le and Thomas of Factory People helped in taking your first steps with Dirty Librarian?

They were very supportive of the line from the very beginning. I started wearing the pieces I had made into the store while I worked for them, and Le and Thomas decided that the line would work well in the store. I started bringing in pieces that I made and they were selling out, so I brought more and more. They really kick started my career! FactoryPeople is such an amazing space, and being able to sell my jewelry alongside such amazing brands is such an honor.

Q: What are your next steps?

I have a Dirty Librarian Chains men's jewelry line in the works as well as some higher end pieces. I also want to do more custom pieces for my customers. There are a lot of ideas bouncing around in my head all of the time, so hopefully they will become a reality soon. Stay tuned!

Shop: Dirty Librarian Chains in Austin TX at the Factory People or contact susan@dirtylibrarianchains.com for ordering information.

(photo credits: Dirty Librarian Chains)

designer insider
posted - beth / 1:43 PM / 12.24.06

Two is Better Then One

Because two Austin designers are better then one...."Dirty Librarian Chains and Rapp and Posavek have come together to bring you the limited edition Lola Bag. The handle is a Dirty Librarian Chains necklace that you can detach and wear while you carry the bag as a clutch." Click on the image to purchase the soft leather clutch, purse and necklace all in one. Mark your calendars to meet this Susan Domelsmith the talent behind the Dirty Librarian Chains.

Dirty Librarian Chains Trunk Show
Thursday, Dec. 21 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 23 12-4 p.m.
Factory People within SoCo. Factory People is located at 1325 S Congress Ave. call 512-440-8002 for more info map>

(img and prod. desc. source: dirtylibrarianchains.com)

designer insider
posted - beth / 10:51 PM / 12.20.06

Lance Avery Morgan of Brilliant

Brilliant's Lance Morgan is every socialites' greatest accessory -Prefect to bring to any occasion, an excellent ice-breaker, and makes anything he's paired with simple "pop".

In deed, he continues to raise the bar of Social Style within Austin, Dallas and Houston...

Always on the go - I caught up with him via his Blackberry to get a few questions answered. This dapper Austinte is shown here hosting the Intermix Grand Opening within Dallas's Northpark Mall. Picture perfect he's always along side those women who scream sophistication.


(Above: Nancy Marcus Golden and Lance Avery Morgan at the Intermix Grand Opening in Dallas held in mid November- img source: a special thanks to the Brilliant crew and Jason Wynn for the photo)

Here is a Q&A with the fabulous Lance Morgan of Brilliant Magazine.

Q: What inspired you to begin Brilliant Magazine?

Hey, it's a Brilliant world. Mostly, we wanted to create a magazine to profile and highlight so many Brilliant people who do Brilliant things to make a difference in the world. We've had so much fun profiling everyone from supermodel Erin Wasson at her Malibu pad to Jerry Hall in her London flat to Carol Burnett in her Santa Fe casa.and so many more of our favorite, prominent Texans. We love being the only luxury lifestyle publication for the state of Texas and making sure that those within our state's borders and beyond are aware of all the dynamism Texas offers the world.

Q: What is your role within running the Magazine?

Officially, I'm the Publisher and Editorial Director. But we all do so much to make Brilliant, well, Brilliant every month. I'm a journalist so I do many of the features that I have produced - but selling ads, media sponsoring events and managing the Brilliants all over the country is just some of what I do to stay out of the poolhalls.

Q: Who do you look up to within the world of fashion editorials?

There are so many great fashion mags out there on an international level. Around here, we love Tatler out of London, and of course, we look to Harper's Bazaar and Vogue, as well as Departures to see their take on fashion and the luxe life. We have worked - and profiled - some the world's best designers, including Zac Posen and Roberto Cavalli. The Texas woman - and man - are very demanding with their style point of view, as you know.

Q: What do you find as the biggest fashion difference between Houston, Dallas and Austin?

They are as different as New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, as you well know. I was just with Horatio Silva, the Fashion Features Director of The New York Times last night - he was here for the Andy Roddick Foundation gala we were attached to. and we were discussing that very difference in style. We're based in Austin, which is the Switzerland of Texas. we're very neutral and inspired by the rest of the state.and country. So the style here is what I would call a studied laid back chic. To me it's very similar to Los Angeles since I lived out there for so long. It's an effortless way of dressing that is still super stylish. Many Austin folks are art collectors and many of those collections are on hangers in their closets. And we have some major style setters here. Dallas is the capital of Southwest style. Always has been, thanks to Stanley Marcus of Neiman Marcus. Dallas tends to be a little more coordinated in their approach to style - for instance, Nanette Lepore from head to toe. Which is great and works beautifully for them. Houston is another story. Since it's on the coast, it's very international in flair. European designers, as well as those from the U.S. do really well there. I think some of the most stylish people come from Texas. It seems to be in the genes. And the water.

Q: Who are you wearing right now?

This very second I am wearing only Gucci Envy and a smile. Oh, clothes, right? Yes, yes. I am wearing a Ted Baker suit. I heart Ted Baker and his Saville Row London style. His cut is succinct and perfect and I never have to have any tailoring done on his line. With a white French-cuffed shirt, some Deakin and Francis cufflinks and a good pair of Joseph Abboud shoes, I am set for day to evening. Some people might call that the New York hotelier look, but hey, it works for me. For a more casual approach, I'm all about English Laundry shirts and Jet Lag jeans. Who isn't?

Q: Where do you prefer to do your Heavy shopping?

Heavy lifting is easy to do in Texas, and I also go elsewhere. Here in theLone Star State I'm at Estilo in Austin and Forty Five Ten or Barney's in Dallas. In Houston I'm at Neiman's and Saks . In Los Angeles it's Fred Segal or John Varvatos' new store. In Gotham City it's Jeffrey or Bergdorf's. I have pretty specific tastes and those really seem to suit my needs. And they feed my spirit, too.

Q: What is your Must Have for this season?

That's so simple. The must have is the accessory. It's everything from the perfect belt, the great, silk pocket square, the big watch and the requisite cufflinks. Here's my point of view on dressing - most people take ten minutes to choose something to wear in the morning (ok, I may take a little longer) so it might as well be something great that presents you correctly to the rest of the world. Also, I recommend men channneling their Inner Cary Grant should any style questions arise. Or me.

designer insider
posted - beth / 9:03 PM / 12.20.06

Tina Schweiger of Erebelle

Erebelle, a lifestyle clothing line, has one year down and many more to go. We sat down with Tina Schweiger, the founder and lead designer of Erebelle for a quick chit chat.

She mentioned design is an egoless process. Working from a simple formula to create items that "are always knit, always soft and always a good fit."

"Fit is key. I use a technical pattern maker and fit model. The process and added help allows me to focus on the details. Should that sleeve be longer, is the stitching right, does that pant leg work are all important issues to troubleshoot and get right before the sample pieces make it to Dallas to be manufactured."

Tina earned a BFA from the University of Texas at Austin in Design and passed along her successful brand management company to take on her latest passion for fashion design. It's the effortless application of her visual background in graphic design and art into the world of apparel which translates. Her signature approach to design begins with the selection of pantone chips, point of interest taken from trend research magazines, internet, shopping outside of Austin, traveling and new seasonal inspirations.

"As the creative process continues, it's important to have discpline and learn to focus which comes with experience. Listening closely to customers and vendors makes apparel design an egoless process."

Most recently featured in Yoga Life, Oxygen, Brilliant, Jewell and WWD with additional coverage in the upcoming February issue of Shape, Erebelle continues to generate a buzz. As an outsider, to the "apparel market" methodology, Erebelle is in the perfect position to take advantage of the undeniable industry shift towards FAST FASHION (shorten sketch to floor timeline).

You can preview the collection on Erebelle.com and buy pieces within Austin, Texas at Bettysport and The Girl Next Door, or online at the Girl Next Door.

Erebelle, 200 East 6th Street, Suite 201, Austin, TX 78701, 512.542.9552 info@erebelle.com

designer insider
posted - beth / 9:39 PM / 12.10.06

Le and Thomas Popov

Le and Thomas Popov Ambassadors of Austin's Style Scene.
Le and Thomas, the owners of the Factory People, continue to build their three-year formula for success from their very basic appreciation for pop culture sensibility. The SOCO boutique servicing "Birdies and Blokes" clearly stands out from the rest earning both national and global street cred.


"Austin has an international reputation - people from all over the world light up when you say the name. At FactoryPeople, we're trying to do things day to day that justify that reputation." ~ Le Popov.

This lifestyle store in the heart of SOCO is where music intersects fashion. The in-store DJ turntable sits directly under the ever-changing sprawling mural from well-known graffiti artists. All creates a strong vibe that resonates among its three "subcultures" of shoppers: the Austinite, traveler, and the bi-coastal on-looker.

This duo works in tandem traveling to London, Singapore, New Zealand and Australia to find those emerging designers who are on-the-pulse. Acutely aware of what they want, they only "write" those lines representing talent, design and fabrics that have depth. Le mentioned the effort doesn't go unnoticed. "In fact, shoppers enjoy the designer bios we place on each item." It is obvious the extra effort to educate continues to fuel the evolution of Austin Style.

The shopping, the clothing and vibe are all contiguous, establishing a tried and true "social community" unmatched among the other brick-n-mortar within Austin and beyond...

Here is a long but informative Q & A taken from a sit down with both Le and Thomas:

Q: What do you look for when choosing designers?
We look first and foremost for innovative design. Really good cutting-edge fashion that falls in the category of "clothes to listen to music in." Surface To Air, United Bamboo and Helmut Lang come to mind. We also look for quality and ethical production - about 85% of what we sell is produced under sweatshop-free conditions (like Rag and Bone and Maharishi mhi).

Lastly, we look for a good story behind the label - what the designers did before, why they started designing, what their inspirations are, who is wearing them, etc. Crate Denim, Yoko Devereaux, Valentine,and Three As Four come to mind. And there are designers who had collections we really liked but when we met them, we didn't like them personally. So we didn't pick them up because we would much rather support nice people than obnoxious ones.

Q: Where do you draw your inspiration from when creating ideas for your events?
Usually the music defines the event. We are as focused on what we like musically as what clothes we stock. We bring the best DJs who host the best club nights around the globe - Optimo in Glasgow, DFA and FIXED in New York, Rory Phillips of Trash and ...And did we mention our disco in London? And Franki Chan of i heart comix in Los Angeles? That said, we love sponsoring DJ Mel's Rock The Casbah because it is one of the best nights in Austin.

The biggest parties we throw are during SXSW and ACL Fest. For instance, during SXSW 07, we will be hosting daily fashion events in the shop with our now legendary DJ Sets By Rock Stars providing the sound. We get the best bands of SXSW to DJ in the shop all day. We've had everyone from Peaches and Annie to Wilco to The Juan Maclean behind our decks. The cool thing is that these are some of the top DJs and bands in the world and they are all a little out of their element here because they are shopping and DJing and just having a good time. So, as a fan you can get something signed or get your picture taken with them. Something you don't always have
the opportunity to do.

The rest of the year we are a bit more spontaneous with our events. They are always open to the public. I wish the shop was bigger so we didn't have to do the invite-only thing during SXSW and ACL Fest, but rules are rules and we do our best to keep the fire chief happy! We always have top Austin DJs in for 1st Thursdays where we give out Dos Equis on the roof. We also host a big birthday party each October with amazing DJs, lots of giveaways and food and signature cocktails.

And one of our favorite events is our Beauty Bar Blowouts, which we host along with Birds Barbershop. We have Birds' stylists in our front window doing hair and MAC make-up artists doing make-overs. We give out drink tokens for the Beauty Bar and have DJs spinning records. It happens on a Friday night every couple of months and the shop is always packed.

Q: How would you describe Austin's style - What does Factory People have to contribute to Austin's Style Equation?
Austin has never had the reputation of "fashion" city but it is recognized as a style innovator. This comes from the long tradition of vintage shops on S. Congress and the others sprinkled around town on S. Lamar and the Drag. The hot climate contributes to the casualness you find here along with the western history. Because Austin is a college town, you will always find Havianas paired with cocktail dresses and trainers with suits.

But, we've seen a lot of change in just the 3 years we've been open. People are spending more money on clothes and dressing up a bit and experimenting more. When we opened we were the first to bring a lot of the top young, emerging designers to Texas - and still are. The designers we carry really are the true innovators - Elisa Jimenez had Tara Subkoff and Mara Hoffmann as interns. Three as Four has been knocked off by John Galliano. Nice Collective was knocked off by Juicy Couture.

So, I feel like we opened up the shopping experience to be more than just a static store that will look the same every time you shop there. You will always see something new and find more than just something to wear here...hopefully you'll be inspired by the shop design or by a book we stock. Or maybe get an idea from one of our shopkids.

We've always been about high/low dressing. Mixing those vintage boots with the cute sweater from Target with the great skirt from Factory People. I think that is really what sets Austin apart. Austin is about mixing it up.

Q: How would you describe your personal styles? Everyday "knickers"?
Thomas grabs 2 pairs of jeans a year and wears them for 6 months solid.
Never washes them and rarely wears anything else. He is a partial to Surface To Air tees, Maharishi pants and hoodies, Fred Perry tipped shirts, Nice Collective jackets and trainers from Asics Onisuka Tiger. He will rock a skinny suit at night occasionally most likely by Hysteric Glamour or United Bamboo. He's as much an Anglophile in his choice of dress as he is in his choice of beer or music.

I for the most part am a dress and Havianas girl during the summer. During the colder months it is leggings with dresses and boots or flats. I adore See By Chloe dresses and tops, Eventide dresses and sweaters, Elisa Jimenez tops and dresses, jewelry by Dirty Librarian Chains and Thea Grant, Hysteric Glamour tees and pretty much anything by Development. I know you shouldn't rock it if you saw it the first time around. But at the end of the day, I'm an '80's girl at heart and some things will never change...I love leggings, platforms, and anything in black.


Q: What's next?
FactoryPeople will open a second location within the historic Sakowitz Building in downtown Houston. Look for our doors to open in Spring 2007.

FactoryPeople - SOCO 1325 S Congress Ave. Austin, TX 78704 USA, 1-888-322-8002

designer insider
posted - beth / 9:05 PM / 12.05.06

Alyson Fox

Alyson Fox has earned an appreciation for design through a camera lens. This multi-talented, native-born Austin photographer, illustrative artist and clothing designer is a well-sought-after force among local retailers, fine art merchants and women wanting her signature pieces.

As an photography undergraduate at Florida State University, Alyson earned the Nikon photographer of the year award. Not such a unpredictable start for such a talented artist. With a MFA from the University of Colorado and experience as a visual merchandiser for Anthropologie, Alyson conitnues to gain national buzz from the likes of Daily Candy, online fine art site Design Sponge, and the coveted glossie Domino.


Q: As an up-n-comer, what do you do to make ends meet?
I am a visual freelancer in charge of in-store displays, photography and store windows for shops like Home Girls, Kick Pleat and Eliza Page. I also take on styling and photography projects for other designers.

Extra projects are great, but within six months I hope to be able to do my own projects.

Q: What inspired you to start creating clothes?
My first thoughts to design clothing started in graduate school. I find inspiration in architecture, trips to vintage clothing stores and by thumbing through books of my old family photos.

Q: Which do you consider more important - your sketchbook, sewing machine or MAC computer?
That is a hard question. I would have to say my sketchbook. It has my drawings, fabrics, photographs and ideas. Of course, I love my MAC, but each sketchbook is a complete collection in itself.

Q: What inspires and influences your designs?
My work environment is key to fueling my creativity. My surroundings and observations of architecture, art, designers and vintage clothing continually influence my designs.

Q: What are a few top picks on your play list?
I listen to Arcade, Fire, Clap Your Hands Say Yea, Siguross, Architecture Hellsanki.

Q: When did you realize you had hit a sweet spot?
I love getting compliments from someone I have no connections with... A woman who works at the New York Times who bought three pieces of my work. She saw the Daily Candy article, which sparked even more interest.

Also, e-mails from women who simply say - "I love your website," or "I love your work" really make it worth it.

Q: What are your next steps?
My clothing line should be out by August 2007.

Q: Is there a reason behind the Pink Breast Awareness piece?
Both of my grandmothers are survivors of breast cancer and so a portion of the proceeds from the sale are being donated to the Susan G Komen foundation.

Q:Where can we find more Alyson Fox?

Alyson Fox can be found on alysonfox.com, Design Sponge, Eliza Page and Kick Peat. I will be in featured the Domino February issue for fashion illustration. I will also be the featured artist of the Reform School. I will get to show 31 of my pieces in L.A.

Shop Online at Alysonfox.com .

designer insider
posted - beth / 5:16 PM / 11.28.06

Designer Insider - Victoria Corbett

We caught up with Victoria Corbett, an illustrative artist, behind Victorla Studio Victoria Corbett at Stitch. Not surprisingly her amazing talents allowed her to stand out from the other 78 vendors as one of my true favorites. But please don't take my word for it - her creative online portfolio speaks volumes allowing you to view her artwork, promotional pieces and apparel all stamped with her signature style.

Inspired by strange and eccentric people, beautiful architecture and trees, she continues to build from her childhood love of drawing. Honestly it's her attention to detail, ability to stay on the pulse and enchanting personality that translates.

We followed up with her for a little Q&A.

Q: Do you have any formal training within art, design or fashion?

A: Yes, I attended Berkshire College of Art (London University) and attained a degree in 3-D design.

Q: Who or what inspires your artwork the most?

A: Inanimate objects and people inspire me. I love looking at old wallpaper prints/ repeat patterns , Japanese art and interior magazines. Nature and the way patterns are created within the shrubs and greenery that surrounds us. All you have to do is look in front of you.

Q: What continues to fuel your illustrative work?

A: Everything.... I love to be present in everyday life not in a social way but as a living breathing thing on this planet. Taking note of whats around me so I can interpret it on to paper.

Q: What interested you to create signature apparel?

A: Well, i started out as a illustrator. Drawing commissions for private clients and newspapers and magazines etc. I was successful at translating my client ideas and i wanted a avenue which allowed me creative control to generate my own original pieces. So, I decided to put one of my designs on to something affordable like a t shirt and the rest is history. The first design was a huge success so I decided to pursue this more. Also I have always loved to draw nature and thought translate well into mainstream.

Q: What is your next step?

A: I really want to expand my line, t shirts are just the first step in a long process. In the future i would love to have a limited addition line that includes linens, purses and possibly one of kind wallpaper panels.

You can shop her apparel line of shirts at Parts and Labor 1604 S Congress Ave. (SOCO), 512.326.1648

designer insider
posted - beth / 11:38 AM / 11.15.06

STITCH AUSTIN

Stitch Austin, Austin's annual showcase for independent designers continues to entertain and support the local DIYfers (Do-it Yourselfers). The amazing turn out for the November 11th event reminds us all that grass root efforts thrive in Austin,TX.

Jesse Kelly-Landes of AMET and SASHA, Jennifer Perkins of Naughty Secretary Club, Tina Sparkles of Sparkle Craft and Karly Hand of Identity Crisis Clothing created the community-directed initiative to support the incubation of independent designers.

The fabulous evening was filled with music from DJ Mel and DJ Jennifer, the hilarious anti-corporate monologue from MC Matt Bearden and a fun fashion show of eighteen designers.

Each designer debuted a four piece collection in front of a standing room only crowd of onlookers of 3000 + as they shopped seventy-eight vendors of unique finds.

In sum, I find myself in agreement with Claire James of Projectrefashion.com. Who stated, "Sometimes the local DIYers are right on. And when they're not, at least they're 'keeping Austin weird."

Reminding us all to support those lovable local DIYfers.

designer insider
posted - beth / 11:32 AM / 11.15.06

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