What inspired her to launch this collection...
Before + Againin
Where each Before + Again piece is as unique as you. Each printed top, dress, or tee is proudly produced by hand upon order in their facilities in St. Louis, MO. You select a print-design, style and the fabric from an ever-growing monthly selection and they make it just for you – where no two pieces are exactly alike.
I spent the larger part of my professional career in marketing, advertising, and PR. This afforded me the unique opportunity to work in many facets of the industry (commercial real estate, retail, and fashion marketing/branding) respectfully. That… along with a true love for both the business AND creative, launching FINCH seemed like a natural transition.
The best career advice she’s ever received...
Duffield Lane
This coming January, Duffield Lane will be showcasing both their beach line for Summer 15 and a full women’s line for Fall/Winter 15 featuring new accessories. What started with pajamas is now developing into a full lifestyle brand with a focus on classic design and a preppy chic aesthetic. Duffield Lane aspires to create a line that focuses on comfortable luxury.
“Just do you.” Go with your gut and stay true to what feels right.
On the success of her line... I truly love what I do and it feels great to see each collection through. If we can continue to be well received by the industry and bring a little something special to the table each season, then we’ve accomplished what we set out to do.
How she unwinds after a long day... Finch Carrie Hanlon · Principal/Creative Director Finch-Collection.com · Booth 1416
Truth be told, a good dose of retail therapy works for me!
The designer behind Gretchen Scott designs...
“Laugh more, gripe less, ignore critics, order dessert, love life” are the words that embody the brand and how I want to live life. Brought up believing I could fly anywhere, anytime - both physically and mentally, my parents are aesthete intellectuals who had an enormous library in the center of our house overflowing with books. My love for ideas and beauty are in my DNA.
Kollontaï
Gabrielle Tousignant chose the name Kollontaï to pay tribute to Alexandra Kollontaï; a pioneer of women’s rights in Europe and the first woman to be named ambassador of a European country. She was also responsible for the creation of International Women’s Day. Alexandra Kollontaï represents the determination and freedom of thought that Gabrielle strives to apply to her life and the brand is meant for a strong woman who takes her rightful place in our society.
The most exciting milestone for the brand... At the beginning, it was introducing flower baskets. Then, of course, adding clothing to the line was so important and created a new business. We now have four of our own retail boutiques, and more on the way. Creating a store is all encompassing – it’s all in the details. Designing stores is one of my favorite things. And I like new. New is what drives designers.
Yala Designs
What makes for great design... SEEING, REALLY SEEING colors, shadows, glimmers, and light.
modashows.com
Gretchen Scott Gretchen Scott · Founder/Designer GretchenScott.com · Booth 1211
Recycling, reusing and capturing the energy of the sun. As members of Solar Pioneers, a program to increase solar generated electricity city wide, Yala Designs is using the sun to meet a portion of their energy needs. As a certified Green Business, they continue to conserve resources, limit waste as well as provide education for employees and the public.
modashows.com