I'm On My Way!

Continuing Projects: The Bells Are Louder Than Ever.

So, since I've started working on my looks for the upcoming bridal show I've felt more inspired than ever! As I said before I hadn't really put serious thought in to doing bridal in a long time, and now that I'm doing it, it feels so good. I've of course looked around to see what some other bridal designers are up to and have fallen in love with the collection from French designer Delphine Manivet . All of her dresses are very whimsical, pretty, and chic. If I wasn't designing my own, I would definitely be buying hers.

In the mean time, I'm hard at work and very excited about what I'm doing at the studio. I've recently had some amazing conversations that were very encouraging and put some fears of mine about starting my own business at ease. So, with all of the continuing encouragement I'm getting, I'm feeling renewed and ready to keep moving forward, eyes to to skies *thanks guys* Also, the inspiration for my upcoming bridal capsule is sand dunes. Think about the line, volume, and movement and you'll see where I'm coming from.

Looking at these sand dunes reminds me of beautiful matte jersey billowing in the wind, dramatic, I am aware.

I would love to visit these some day.

I've been making several "to-do" lists, and am investigating getting a small spring/summer capsule in to a store...or 2. While I'm scheming and plotting I'll be listening to this...

Current Favorites: Perth by Bon Iver

God speed!

x

All In a Day's...

New Projects: I hear the church bells ringing.


So, in the past week aside from being hard at work on F/W 2012 patterns (I've finished quite a few!), I'm going to be showing a few pieces in an upcoming bridal show. I'm pretty excited about it, doing bridal has been a definite desire, and this show will give me an opportunity to explore that AND hopefully make a couple of pesos while I'm at it. Also, I've started freelancing with Elizabeth Anyaa and have met the crew for the play I'm working on- "Angela's Mixtape". Like I said before, things are looking up. Also, I'm going to be starting a campaign on Kickstarter soon so look out for that too!

Sketchbook and Jasmine Tea: Check!

Reading Materials and Inspiration: Check!

Great Work space and Plenty of Room: Check!


Listening To: Chapel of Love by The Ronettes

x

Back To Work!

Collection: F/W 2012 Re-Focused


Today after a bit of a break from working on my first collection for Fall/ Winter 2012 (and my blog obviously), I made a triumphant return to the workroom, and banged out a couple of patterns. I woke up at the crack of dawn (I have a new year's resolution to start maximizing my time) and headed over to the studio. I had a meeting this morning about doing some freelance work for an amazing textile designer, Elizabeth Anyaa . Which would be awesome, because I would still have time to work on my collection and earn a little extra $$$. I've also been recruited to design costumes for the Dallas Soul Children's Theatre, so things are looking up right now!

One must have all of the necessary supplies to be completely productive.

The mess of working.

And don't think I was completely unproductive during the holidays...I actually fit in a custom jacket for the lovely Victoria Meek, director of the South Dallas Cultural Center. She provided the gorgeous fabric that she bought in Senegal.

Did I mention that it's reversible?

I don't have much time left before my goal date for shooting the look book, so I'll be an early riser until it's done. Onward and upward!

x

Saturday: Before the Party

History Buff:

A friend of mine looking reminiscent of the lovely Jane Birkin sporting the classic heavy fringe and long locks. She happened to become an official history buff today.

Listening To:

Getting myself in to a fun, French, and fancy mood before going to toast this lovely, crisp evening. I do love Serge Gainsbourg, if you haven't already seen it, you should really try to view the recent biopic film. It's rather humorous and terribly romantic, see the trailer at www.imdb.com . Also, I love Jane Birkin, who Refinery 29 just did an interview with.

Love a chic couple. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

x

Rainy Day: Illuminations

In Love With: Jason Wu Pre-Fall 2012

But of course I am, I pretty much love everything this talented young fellow does. Peruse the complete collection at www.style.com, and while you're at it take a gander at his Spring 2012 collection, if you haven't already. I would hate for you all to be left behind when the flowers start blooming again. I know it's a little early to start thinking about spring, but a girl can dream.

x

Would Love To Be Wearing: Look 7 from TSE Fall 2011

It would be the perfect marriage of cozy and chic on a wet and chilly day such as this.

Listening To: Digable Planets & Otis Redding

 

Some music to match the rainy day outside while sketching out the remainder of Fall 2012, my debut collection. Otis Redding makes it particularly romantic, so you don't mind being inside. Luckily it will be sunny and dry tomorrow when I head to the studio to bring some of these sketches to life.

Love: Malick Sidibe

Photos from another amazing Malian photgrapher. Again stripes,prints,and trousers. I'm thinking these Malian photographers are going to be a huge source of inspiration for me in future collections.

Me: Purpose

I am a designer and fashion writer, and have recently begun the process of starting my own business. This will be among many other things a documentation of the evolution of my company, Ruby Charles, as well as an outlet for my musings, illuminations, and projects.

Thanks for reading

x

Love:Seydou Keita 1921 to 2001

Some inspirational photos from the late Malian photographer. Stripes, prints, trousers.