She Sells ShaSAM3: Our interview with Julia, the Jewelry Artist

Julia Rutland is the head diva here at Aesthetic Design Style, but did you know she also has a jewelry line? She's a busy little bee! Here is the interview she did for our blog.

Introduce yourself?

I'm Julia Rutland, owner of Aesthetic Design Style and my creative outlet is designing statetment pieces for my line of jewelry called ShaSAM3.

Where are you from?

Born a Buckeye, but have lived most of my life in Indianapolis.

ShaSAM3 "Egypt Royale" (retail $15)

How long have you been designing?

Officially since October 2009 - unofficially all my life.

When did you start ShaSAM3?

October 2009 - the name is a hybrid of my three beautiful daughters' names.

What inspired you to start ShaSAM3?

My mother-in-law had a big suitcase full of costume jewelry she found at her mother's house. All kinds of stuff from all eras and I just was beside myself. We all got the chance to go through it and pick out things we liked; so that's what started my wheels turning. There were a ton of vintage brooches and earrings that had no mates so I just knew I could create something nice from these pieces. I love big oversized accessories and I really love rings. I wasn't finding rings big enough for my liking so I started desiging them out of need :) The more I wore them the more people asked where I got them so I thought maybe this would be something I could share with others. This way the beautiful jewelry that would have been thrown away or left in that suitcase could be cherished for years to come with a modern twist.

What sets ShaSAM3 apart from other accessories lines?

 

ShaSAM3 "Ring Leader" (retail $50)

I LOVE using unexpected things and making them beautiful or extraordinary. Denim is pretty dull but when you work it into a piece of jewelry it takes on a life of its own and becomes art. The best part is taking denim -which was at one time considered something only "blue collared" workers wore- and turning into something that I pair with an evening gown. Irony runs through many of my pieces. My love of finding new life for old things got me thinking of all the denim I had laying around. That turned into the statement pieces I create out of denim. I sometimes incorporate the vintage jewelry with the denim for an unexpected marriage of hard and soft that really seems to work.

Who are your influences?

Elsa Schiaparelli, Marchaesa Casati, and my Great Great Aunt Rose (whom I never had the pleasure of meeting but she smoked cigars and wore pants at a time when "ladies" weren't suppose to do so - I love hearing stories about her)

What is your favorite piece?

 

ShaSAM3 Ring (retail $15)

One called Ring Leader that I designed because I was in love with these huge metal rings I had lying around. I added some denim and some nice natural baubles and it turned into something better than I imagined in my head.

What are your price points?

Nothing over $50

Who do you prefer: Independent or Mainstream designers?

an independent fashion revolution all the way baby! (that's trademarked by the way :)

ShaSAM3 Denim (retail $30)

Any other special projects you want to share with our readers?

I am working on expanding the brand this year and having it in more retail establishments and available for online purchasing as well. Look for our designs to collaborate with some local and not so local designers this year and we may just pop up in other unexpected places :)

You can see and purchase more pieces and from ShaSAM3 on their website and the Aesthetic Design Style online boutique.

Leggings Are NOT Pants

One of the most misused trend out on the streets now are leggings. You can pair this accessory with any outfit, casual or dress; but I've seen leggings being assaulted and accosted lately. People repeat after me...leggings are NOT pants, especially if my butt looks like its been put in a cement mixer...or if you can see my unmentionables...

It's not just me, there's a whole Facebook page dedicated for people against leggings as pants.

 

See they're all using leggings as an accessory; even LiLo! If she can do it, you can too. So promise you will not wear leggings as pants. If you see someone who does, gently tap them on the shoulder and make them take the pledge!

Be a Part of Your Own Clique: Interview with Tiffiany Gilstrap-Scott

Tiffiany Gilstrap-Scott of Clique Da Cour

I was so lucky to meet Tiffiany Gilstrap-Scott last week for the first time. She is such a talented person. It's very rare you find a genuinely nice individual. Read her interview and you'll see what I mean. 

Introduce Yourself

My name is Tiffiany Gilstrap-Scott. I was born and raised in a small town in Indiana. I have a bachelors' degree in Merchandising and Design from Academy of Design and Technology in Tampa, FL. I just moved back here about 7 months ago. I love to design and also play soccer; its' still a fun past time for me. I work two jobs other than designing. People call me crazy all the time, why do you work so much. My answer is you have to work hard to get your dreams. No one is ever going to hand you something you have to be persistent and work through the rough spots to get to the prize lol :).

Where are you from?
I grew up in Tipton, Indiana.
How long have you been designing?
I have been doing this a long time. My mother and grandmother both taught me at a very young age how to crochet and sew. I remember sitting on my grandmothers lap teaching me how to sew my baby doll clothes . It's just something I just always did. I used to make some of my dresses for school growing up as a kid and special event I had. I just loved having something that I know no one else would. There is nothing worse than showing up somewhere where the girl is wearing the exact same dress as you. Thank heavens that has never happened to be, but it has happened to people I know. It's an awful thing.
When did you start Clique Da Cour?
Well it was part of a school project actually in high school and I just been fine tuning it ever since. I really started getting into it when I was in college. I know it was something I wanted to keep pursuing and I figured I better start soon and just keep building on as I go along. You're never finished; it is always an on going process to keep bettering yourself as you get older and learn more things along the way. I always tell people you can never know everything in your line of work there is always something to be learned to better yourself not only as a businesswomen but as a person too.

Clique Da Cour (retail $95)

  What inspired you to start Clique Da Cour?
I would have to say a good part of it was from my grandfather Dennis Gilstrap; which is no longer with us. He was a very successful business man. He started a company with his partner Henry known as {the} Val corporation. It was a retail establishment with hardline and softline products. He sold it several years ago, but he also owned a warehouse several apartment complexes along with buying houses and flipping them for profit or renting them out. He was always in a business venture and always trying to get to the next step and conquer something else. He was very persistent and never stopped working. I hope to one day be as successful as he was.
What sets Clique Da Cour apart from other lines?
I try to make each piece different. I want someone to appreciate the time and effort. I not only want it to look good on but also be visual appealing and someone go wow you really made this yourself. We try and make each piece unique to set us apart, its not something you could go in a department store and but off the shelf.

"Sugar" Feed Bag Clutch (retail $15 and up) Designs may vary

Who are your influences?
My mother Angie, my grandfather Dennis, and my grandmother Georgia.
What is your favorite piece?I don't think I have one! As long as what I make for someone and they appreciate it and love it; that's all I ask. That's the best reward I can get.

Sloutch Beanie on Etsy (retail $12)

What are your price points?
I would say they're from anywhere to $15 to couple hundred but that is for a gown. I do want everyone to enjoy my pieces. I didn't grow up with a lot of money and I do want people feel that they can afford my clothes. You don't have to live in a mansion to get designer wares.
 

Who do you prefer: Independent or Mainstream designers?
Independent designers!!! I do like some mainstream, but its getting to the point where anyone with money can design. As long as you have a big enough checkbook you just pay people to do everything for you. There are some mainstream designers that went to school for design and worked their butts off to get to where they are today and I applaud them for that. We all know its not easy. Now we got all these people that are just getting into just to make money and to most independent designers it means more to us than just money its something we put our blood, sweat and tears into; doing what we love. Most independent designers are an artist {and} the business person, they do it all from production to the end product and then sell it for a profit. 

Any other special projects you want to share with our readers?

I am going to be entering into a competition called Indy Fashion Time (IFT). I am really excited about it. You comprise three looks which one of them is avant garde. I have some great ideas and starting to get started as we speak. It's coming May 31st to June 4th, 2011. The final competition is being held at the State Fairgrounds.

Clique Da Cour (retail $ 80)

Take a look at more pieces from Tiffiany and Clique Da Cour on her website and her Etsy page.

Sparkling Chic: Our Interview with Sarah Radford

Last week, we featured an independent designer from Cleveland, OH. We got such a huge response from it, we decided to do it again; but with our clients. We want you to meet the reason why ADS is here. Without these people there would be no ADS. We want to thank them and introduce them to you.

Sarah Radford is the founder and designer of Chic Gems Etc.. Sarah answered some questions for me in an interview.

Accessories Designer Sarah Radford

Introduce yourself

My name is Sarah Radford and I am the founder and designer of Chic Gems Jewelry. I have loved fashion since I was a child and have worked for numerous fashion companies.

Where are you from?

I grew up in Cleveland, OH and lived in Chicago from 2002-2009.

How long have you been designing?

Couture Pearl Flower Necklace (retail $125)

I began designing jewelry when I was about 10 years old.

When did you start Chic Gems, etc.?

I founded Chic Gems as a side project in 2002.

What inspired you to start Chic Gems, etc.?

Floating Pearl Necklace (retail $35)

I was wearing suits to work everyday for my corporate sales job and I decided that I needed a way to make my wardrobe more exciting. I was not thrilled with the fashion jewelry that I was finding at stores, so I thought, "why not create my own?" I love all things fashion and I have a passion for helping women look beautiful. I believe that with the right accessories you can transform an entire wardrobe.

What sets Chic Gems apart from other accessories lines?

Swarovski Starfish Necklace (retail $63)

I offer many customizable pieces through my website and private consultations. I take the time to listen to my customers requests and exceed their expectations. One of my niches is affordable custom jewelry for bridesmaids.

Who are your influences?

I am influenced by pop culture, nature, and Old Hollywood Glamour.

What is your favorite piece?

Tampa Necklace in Emerald (retail $55)

 I really love the Tampa Necklace. It is a stunning piece that can be worn at the office or for a night out on the town.

What are your price points?

My prices range from $18-$125. Most of the pieces are under $70.

Who do you prefer: Independent or Mainstream designers?

Most mainstream designers began as independent designers, so I support both. I think it is great when independent designers achieve their dreams and share their designs with the World. 

Any other special projects you want to share with our readers? 

I always enjoy the opportunity to work with charities to create customized jewelry that they use for unity and fundraising pieces. The most recent charity I have partnered with is High Hopes in High Heels, http://www.highhopesinhighheels.org/. 

For more information on Chic Gems etc and to see Sarah's entire inventory, go to their website. 

Longing for Spring

We thought Jack Frost was visiting, but it looks like he's going to stay for awhile. Forty nine states in the country have snow on the ground. Even Hawaii has snow in the mountainous regions. The only thing that perks me up (besides hot toddys, warm blanket and guilty pleasure T.V.) is the hope spring in near.

I love spring. The grass and flowers start growing. The birds start chripping. The days are longer. Most importantly, your wardrobe starts to shift and layers start to fall and even SOMETIMES you have to go shopping. This spring, we are told by the fashion gods, that bright colors, stripes and vintage (especially the 70's look) will be trending. Here's a peek of what you can expect to see in the spring.

Brynn Capella Oversized Heather Envelope Clutch in Lipstick Red (Retail Price $258)

Aperlai

Aquilano.Rimondi  (pic from Vogue.com)

Tamara Cosmetics Pretty Lips "Brave" (Retail $18)

Kate Spade Dress (Retail Price $375)

Re-Vamped

We have re-worked our blog yet again.  What do you think?  Is there more of anything you'd like to see?  Less of anything?  I know we have to get better at blogging more often - we're working on that - PROMISE!  We welcome your feedback. 

As we've re-vamped our blog we also realized that it's now time to put away the flip-flops (praise God) and even though it is still scorching hot outside you need to be thinking of re-vamping your fall/winter wardrobe.  Is it going to be cardigans and loafers again this year for you?  We think (and hope) NOT!  Just because it's fall doesn't mean boring and covered up.  Use this year to think differently about yourself and how you present yourself to the world.  Spice it up!

If I see one more brown sweater, brown shoes, and khaki's in the fall and winter I'm going to jump out the window  - seriously I just might.  C-O-L-O-R!  Color works in any season and can help not only heighten your sense of style but also heighten your mood.  Put on those 6 inch blood red platforms with that black jumpsuit or throw on that cranberry scarf with that drab grey trench.   Even though color is great - less is more.  A SPLASH here and there works wonders.  A head to toe lime green ensemble wouldn't be as subtle if you get where I'm going :) 

So throw caution to the wind this season and go for the dark navy blue nails or try those Aubergine thigh-high platform boots with your skinny jeans.  Stay true to yourself but bust out with an element of surprise (and color) - you may be the one surprised you hadn't tried it sooner!

Until Then:  "Everything you now do is something you have chosen to do.  Some people don't want to believe that.  But if you're over the age twenty-one, you're life is what you're making of it.   To change your life you need to change your priorities."  John C. Maxwell

Indiana - The Next Milan?

I'm sure the title of this post has amused some but for others it feels like our only mission in life. Is it possible for Indiana to be a fashion haven for edgy, in the know, chic, fashionista leaders? In the land of fried twinkies, corn, soybeans, and basketball there is more to Hoosier Hospitality than meets the eye - really there is!

Over the past year I have been so amazed at the incredible people I've been lucky enough to meet. And the surprise was that I didn't have to wander very far. When I decided to get involved in my community and help improve where I live for my kids and for humanity in general the wonderful people just started coming and coming and coming. Every day I'm meeting people whom have the exact same outlook about our city, the fashion community, and improving both. Instead of sitting back complaining about not being in New York, L.A., or Chicago and getting upset as to how backwards or how late we seem to be about fashion here in Indiana I decided to get off my own butt and change the way things are going. The old saying "be the change you want to see in the world" truly applies in this case. When you get out and take the emphasis off of yourself and truly get into helping others, it not only changes the people or the area you're trying to help but you, yourself, are the most changed and for that I'm grateful.

So, in my quest to somehow think I'm going to change the realm of fashion in Indiana myself, I came upon many many others who paved a beautiful path before me. I've also found more phenomenal people working right with me - beside me, in front of me, behind me, wherever and whatever it's all about improving the fashion community.

A few days ago I was at a meeting regarding establishing a Fashion Council or Fashion District for Indianapolis and Indiana. Just being around people who truly want the same goal is just so thrilling. One woman, whom I hold so much respect for, commented that trying to get funding for this project would be a bit trickier than other projects due to the fact that most people view fashion as something dumb or frivolous - sadly she's so right. With this project it is our duty to change that view and to make those individuals understand that fashion is not so superficial but it will provide jobs and drive revenue to our city to boost our struggling economy. I say to those naysayers that this IS possible and WE WILL SUCCEED and you may as well jump on the bandwagon now or we'll leave you behind.

So, Milan? Maybe - but definitely watch out New York ,L.A., and Chicago - we're coming for you!

Indiana Designers, Fashion Writers, Hair Stylists, Reps, Independent Boutique Owners, Photographers, WE NEED YOU! Go to http://www.fashion.insideleg.com/ and tell us about yourself. We are collecting data which will help us in our funding efforts for our project. The more content we acquire the better our project can be.

Until Then: "What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?" - Vincent Van Gogh

Accessories Always Fit

Accessories, accessories, accessories - oh how I love thee!!! You are always there for me and never fail to set it off at all times. I'm including my beloved shoe collection as well. Some may argue shoes are not an accessory but I must say that as much as I couldn't live without them (literally) I have to admit I choose my garments around my shoes - thus making them an accessory.

A former boss of mine came up to me one day and said "Okay, I get you now. You wear more classic clothes and accessorize out of this world." At first I was like "is that a compliment or should I be upset?" Then I realized it was simply a true observation. I love clothes but I love accessories more. Or should I say accessories are always more kind to me in lieu of having three beautiful, yet 8.5 pound, babies. Let me explain.

When choosing the right outfit (which is always of the utmost importance) there are numbers involved. Some days the numbers are smaller than others. On those days it's fun to shop. After having three kids and still trying to lose the "baby weight" when my youngest is 3 just is not as fun and the numbers seem to have grown larger without my permission. Yet when shopping for accessories the only numbers involved are "how many should I buy?" including pairs of shoes of course. Accessories can transform an outfit from outdated to current from fuddy-duddy to extraordinary and from dull to fun with one choice of a bangle.

No matter what your body type, weight, attitude, mood, race, religion, creed, etc., accessories are always your friend. They don't care if you've gained 50 pounds or lost 50 pounds. They don't care if you went in for a salad but came out with chocolate chip cookies. They don't even care if you really did hear the birthday cake in the breakroom calling your name. But your little black dress does - oh yes, that little black dress can tell if you ate just one M&M too many. None of us want to have the days when we go to get dressed and nothing fits correctly. But on the occasion that we do just spice up something nice with fun, large, one-of-a-kind accessories. You can still feel good, updated, "in", and beautiful with a little help from your forever friend (s) ~ ACCESSORIES.

Until then: "If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it." ~ Mary Engelbreit

Indy Fashion Time

Networking is really an incredible thing when done properly! I have met the most wonderful, smart, creative, and powerful individuals just by going to things and doing the things I love. One perfect example of this was when I met Denisha Ferguson AKA DLANG. Not only is she a designer but she, like us, is devoted to changing the landscape of fashion in our very own backyard. She believes in and knows how much talent we have right here in Indianapolis and wants to showcase that talent.

But it doesn't stop there and this is not just another fashion show!!! Denisha created Indy Fashion Time to educate, spotlight, and encourage designers and make them more successful in their futures. Aesthetic Design Style is so excited to be able to help out and be a part of Indy Fashion Time this year! This is the 3rd Annual launch of this event and it is shaping up to be the biggest and best so far.

Denisha breaks down the IFT Experience in three categories:

• Mission - To create learning, networking, and economic opportunities for the creative mind
• Vision - Dreamers platform into reality
• Goals - 1. To obtain dreams through artistic expression 2. To empower youth through workshops that introduce basic principles of the arts, while also focusing on self-esteem and life skills 3. To provide marketing opportunities for the novice and experience creative professional 4. To promote cultural diversity in the arts 5. To increase tourism by providing creative events in Indiana

There really IS more than corn in Indiana - PROMISE!

IFT offers a design competition with a CASH prize for the winner! This is something that is rare for fashion events in the city so I applaud her for this offering.

• The competition is open to any resident or non-resident of Indiana, student, entrepreneur, or professional
• Requirements: 1. Present four original designs 2. Follow rules outlined on registration forms 3. Submit $189 registration fee
• To enter simply email IFT Week at iftweek@yahoo.com with your name and mailing address and you will be sent the designer registration forms
• Deadline has been extended to April 21, 2010

Tickets for IFT are very reasonable as well. $15 for general admission and only $25 for VIP tickets which includes access to networking reception, lite Hor' D' oeuvres, preferred show seating, and MORE surprises (are you kidding me? VIP all the way baby!). CLICK HERE to purchase your tickets NOW!

For further details on how you can join the competition, volunteer, or get the schedule of events visit IFT Week and get connected.

See you there!

Until then: "Creativity is the ability to see that which is waiting to exist"

When Rachel Zoe Speaks - We Listen

Everyone has their own opinion regarding Rachel Zoe - I happen to love her. So when I stumbled upon her "The Not So Basics Guide - 20 Wardrobe Essentials" I just HAD to share. They all really make a lot of sense along with being fantastic. Some of her picks are on the more expensive side but if you use this as a guide you can put your own twist on her recommendations. Which is what we all should do anyway in order to stay true to who we are. Fashion is the one thing that lets us express EXACTLY who we are without saying a word - I just get all excited!!!

So here we go!! Rachel Zoe's 20 Wardrobe Essentials everyone should have (with pics of examples I have found from independent designers -of course!)

• Nude Pump: Pretty Birdie Handmade Wooden Platforms $550

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• Dark Trouser Jean: Melynda's Denim $60

Oversized Satchel: Large Brown Leather Travel Laptop Bag by The Leather Shop $160

• Sheer Detail Tee: Couture Silk Angel Wing Blouse by Prizy Sebastian $210

Body Con Dress: Bobbie Dress by Lara Miller $198

• Party Skirt: Katya Skirt by ANA!S $68

• Menswear Inspired Timepiece: Handcraft Watch TRES by JHA & Marianne $198

• Perfect Red Nail Polish - Essie Lollipop $8
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

• Feminine Blouse: Long Sleeved Black Collared Blouse by BrookeCatherine Designs $75

• Abstract Print Scarf: Silk Scarves "Spring" by Silk Wonders $40














• Dark Slim Fit Jean: Duende Skinny Jeans $99

• Standout Clutch: Metallic Oversized Heather Clutch by Brynn Capella $249
  
  
• Leather Biker Jacket: Black Leather Biker Chic Jacket by Santos Leather $280





















• Go-To Sunnies: Vintage Thin Frame Sunglasses by L I M I $15

• Wide Leg Jersey Knit Pant: Wide Leg Trouser by YYSTUDIO $128
  
  
  
  
  
  

• Oversized Sweater: French Draped Terry Cardigan by Lamixx $201

• Statement Making Flat: Lucy Zebra Flat by Kathryn Kerrigan $99

• Cocktail Ring: Royal Ball - Vintage Fashion Ring by ShaSAM3 $60

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• Denim Jacket: Your Ruffle Denim Jacket by The Butterflies Shop $69




















• Timeless Hat: Emilliner Women's Classic Felt Fedora $325

Until Then: "Style is what one creates - glamour is a state of mind." - Rachel Zoe