Interview with Jewelry Designer Meri Geraldine

Hello, fabulous readers! Ever wondered what it takes to be a jewelry designer with a mission for ethical jewelry? Perhaps you are curious about how an ethical designer turns bold ideas into stunning, sustainable pieces?

Picture provided by Meri Geraldine

https://gardensofthesun.com/

Buckle up because today we’re diving into the glittering, glamorous world of jewelry again. And who’s our guide on this sparkly journey? 🤔🌟🛤️

None other than Meri, the superhero founder with a cape made of ethical gold and a tiara of transparency! 🦸‍♀️💫👑

Honestly, can you imagine how cool such a cape would look? I’m already dreaming of wearing one for my next day out! 😌💭

Com'on Seadbeady, wake up and continue writing your blog post! This is not the time to dream. 😴💻✍️

Oh, sorry. Who was I talking about? Sometimes my memory's like a rusty old car trying to find its way! 🤔👵😂

Ah yes, Meri is the ultimate jewelry wizard. Blending bold ideas with a heart so big it deserves its own zip code. 🧙‍♂️💖

Seriously, her brain never takes a coffee break. She’s always buzzing with ways to make things better. ☕💡

It’s like she’s the fairy godmother of the jewelry world, touching, shaping, and sprinkling magic on every part of the business. ✨🧚‍♀️💍

Would you like to know what her mission is? To meet every single person in their supply chain. 😕🤝

She’s the Santa Claus of ethical jewelry, checking her list twice and making sure everyone gets their fair share of joy. 🎅🎁

I can’t help but wonder. Does this Santa Claus visit adults too? I have to tell you I’ve been *very* good this year! 🤔🎄😇

Well ok, except for those times I pull the legs of my readers. That’s the mean part of me. It’s not my fault. Some of you may already know I blame my parents, since they made me. 🤷‍♀️😄

Now let’s get back to our jewelry designer. The next time you put on a piece of her ethical jewelry, remember: you’re not just dazzling the room. 😎💎💫

You’re dazzling the world with your amazing, positive choices. Shine on, you ethical superstar! 🌍✨👏

Picture provided by Meri Geraldine

What is your name, function, and the company you work for?  

I’m Meri and I’m the founder of the ethical jewelry brand Gardens of the Sun.  

How old are you?

I’m 36 years old. 

What kind of work do you do, or what are you studying to be? 

I studied tropical forestry and started my career as a sustainability consultant. As founder and director, I do just about everything to keep the business running in line with my vision. 

Let's not sugarcoat it - running a business like this comes with its own set of challenges. Sourcing materials ethically and sustainably can be difficult, and it's not always easy to find suppliers that align with the brand's values. 

It's hard to make sure the final jewelry truly leaves a positive impact on the world, not just another "greenwashing" tactic. 

The jewelry industry has a reputation for being secretive, unethical and damaging to the environment. It's not uncommon to hear stories of mines destroying the environment and worker exploitation. 

Plenty of businesses toss buzzwords like ethical, sustainable or responsible around. But they don't necessarily mean the same thing, and they’re not always backed by action or change. 

There are no quick fixes to solve the shortcomings in bringing gemstones and metals to market. It takes extra effort, resources and plenty of determination. Since it’s hard to disrupt a world of profit. In other words? It's complicated. 

What made you decide to become a Jewelry Designer?

I started creating and designing jewelry as a creative outlet. It was only when I realized I could combine my passion for creating jewelry with my desire to do good and my background in responsible supply chains and production that I fully embraced being a jewelry designer. 

Is fashion important to you? Why? 

Not really, because it’s so transient. But style is. I like to look good, because it makes me feel good when I feel beautiful. 

Picture provided by Meri Geraldine

What are your successes, and how did you achieve them?

Two things I’m most proud of are setting up a fully traceable supply chain for our ethical gold, which is mined by indigenous women who pan the gold by hand, free from mercury, free from deforestation and in return receive fair pay. 

You can read more about that partnership here. Earlier, we became B Corp certified and I’m really proud of receiving third party certification for how we run our business. 

What’s something you might want to do in the future?

I’d love to open a showroom and gallery this year, to show our clients not just our jewelry, but also how it’s made and the people and stories behind the jewelry.  

Is the name of the Brand important to you when you buy clothing or jewelry?

For some brands, I know they share my values. So I would prefer to purchase from those brands.  

Describe your personal style of fashion?

I love natural materials, like cotton, lyocell and silk. I like minimal styles that make me feel feminine and sexy, but are also easy to wear. In practice this means I wear a lot of single tone jump suits and dresses with long slits and open backs, paired with Birkenstocks.   

How did you find your personal style? Do you have a signature look? 

I went through a nasty divorce in 2019. I decided to wear clothes that helped me feel beautiful, but were comfortable enough for motherhood and Bali life - think bike rides along the beach. 

Picture provided by Meri Geraldine

Do you have an influence on other people’s fashion style?

I don’t think I do. 

What are in your eyes the best trends at the moment?

For jewelry, I love the ring and earring stacking trends. It means you can wear simple pieces of jewelry, but pair them into more exciting combinations. 

I also like that more clients are looking at yellow gold and simple engagement ring designs. It means you let the center stone and the materials do the talking. 

What are in your eyes the worst trends at the moment?

There’s a growing demand for ethical and sustainable products, and the jewelry industry is no exception. People are becoming more aware of the impact their purchases have on the world and are willing to pay more for products that align with their values. However, simply labeling a product as "ethical" or "sustainable", is not enough to make a real difference.

For example, many jewelry companies may claim that their diamonds are ethically sourced, but they may not provide any transparency or traceability in their supply chain. They may not disclose where their materials are sourced from or how they ensure their suppliers don’t engage in exploitative practices. 

This lack of transparency makes it difficult for consumers to verify a brand’s claims. 

I see a lot of fast fashion brands jumping on the sustainability bandwagon, without actually embodying the values behind it. 

Or you may see t-shirts that say feminist on them, but that are produced in a way that exploits women in the supply chain by a company that’s owned and run by men. 

I also think a downside of yellow gold gaining popularity again is that cheaper brands are going for gold plating. Gold plating means a very thin layer of gold is attached to a cheaper base metal. The thing is that gold plating uses toxic chemicals and those chemicals aren’t always disposed of properly. 

What kind of fashion advice would you give us?

If you want the clothes and accessories you wear to express your values, also think about how they’re made and produced, and what values lie behind them.

Who is your style icon and why?

I don’t have a style icon.  

Is there something else you would like to share with us?

SHORT BIO

Meri Geraldine started her career as a sustainability consultant, campaigning against oil palm plantations, saving tropical rainforests and advocating for indigenous people. 

As the founder and CEO of Gardens of the Sun, she still seeks a higher purpose in everything she does. She now uses jewelry to plant trees, empower female miners to stop using mercury and support victims of wartime sexual violence. 

Picture provided by Meri Geraldine

Thanks, Meri, for helping me with my interview questions. I admire that you are making ethical choices, and stand up for indigenous people! 😊✨💎

Now, dear readers, if you're ever looking for something to do, why not take a peek at some of my past interviews with jewelry designers on this page?

https://seadbeady.blogspot.com/p/jewelry-designer-interviews.html

Hope you like my blog.....Until next time.....Have a nice day 

Renata (Seadbeady) 

Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts and receive the next blog posts in your Email inbox  

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How to Master Style And Fashion With A Belt Bag - Falsetto The Label - Pink Puffer Bag

Hey there, fashionistas! Ever wondered what happens when you mix a Belt Bag with a puffer jacket? Well, let me introduce you to the fabulous pink puffer bag from Falsetto The Labell! 

Picture by Seadbeady

https://falsettothelabel.com/

It’s like carrying a cloud of cotton candy on your hip, fluffy, and oh-so-stylish. 🍬☁️💖

Speaking of cotton candy, I used to gobble that stuff up like there was no tomorrow when I went to fairs as a kid. 🍭🎡👧 

Imagine me with pink sticky fingers and a big grin. That was my look back then! 👐😂

It’s a far cry from the grouchy old lady I’ve become today. Well, maybe not grouchy, just a goofy old gal with a knack for fashion. At least, that’s what I’d like to believe! 😏👵👗

Picture this: You’re strolling down the street, and heads turn as you strut with this bubblegum pink beauty slung across your shoulder. 🚶‍♀️💖👀

It’s not just a simple belt bag; it’s a statement piece that says, I’m fun, fearless, and fabulous! 👜💃✨

Now, I know what you’re thinking, a puffer bag? Isn’t that something you wear, not carry? 🤔🤷‍♂️🎒

Ah, you fool, didn’t you know fashion has no rules, and this bag breaks them all in the best way possible? 🙃👗📏

Oops, I shouldn't have called you a fool. What was I thinking, saying something like that to my beloved readers? 😬🤦‍♂️

Let's just forget that slip-up and focus on telling you more about this bag. 😧🙈

It’s practical too; with an additional small compartment, you can stash your essentials without sacrificing style. 👜👠

Whether you’re hitting the city streets or brunching with friends, this bag is your new go-to accessory.  😁🍳🥂

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. 😍👜💖

Now, let's celebrate the joy of fashion with this cute pink puffer bag, Falsetto The Label, sent to me for a blog post! 🌸 😍🎀

Picture by Seadbeady

About Falsetto The Label

Falsetto The Label is dedicated to my late sister Sherrie, a victim of domestic violence. Sherrie was incredibly loving and always aimed to be her best self. Our sisterly bond was deeply connected through music, particularly the beautiful falsetto vocal register that many artists use.

Falsetto The Label is a clothing brand designed to inspire women and girls to be the best versions of themselves—whether bold, resilient, extraordinary, brave, or beyond just pretty. Just as falsetto breaks musical barriers to create a sound beyond imagination, our brand encourages you to HIT YOUR HIGH NOTE.

Picture by Seadbeady

Their Mission

Falsetto is dedicated to philanthropic efforts, donating 20% of its sales to domestic violence charities. Additionally, Falsetto The Label collaborates with other small businesses that have a mission to support those in need, further expanding its charitable impact. 

The brand's mission is clear: “You shop, we give back to those in need.” Emphasizing the importance of generosity, Falsetto believes in the principle that giving is better than receiving.

Picture by Seadbeady

Jolie Puffer Belt Bag: Pink

Our Jolie Puffer Belt Bag is a modern take on the classic fanny pack, offering versatile styling options. This quilted bag can be worn as a belt bag, crossbody bag, or shoulder bag. 

It features a unique half-moon shape in quilted puffer polyester fabric, accented with gold hardware and a playful ribbon detail on the zipper. We're absolutely in love with this design—it’s spacious and the front zipper provides easy access to your essentials.

The bag has an adjustable strap that extends from 27 inches to 45 inches, accommodating various carrying styles. An exterior zipper pocket offers quick access to your credit cards, ID, and phone, while the interior is lined with black and white stripes. 

The bag measures 12" x 8" at its longest points and is made from quilted puffer polyester, with additional materials including sponge and a poly/cotton liner. To clean, simply spot clean as needed.

Picture by Seadbeady

My opinion on the Jolie Puffer Belt Bag: Pink

Let’s talk about this bag's charm. I just love the vibrant pink hue and the distinctive puffer design. It's amusing how I've been gravitating towards pink more and more lately, instead of red. 🤔🌸🔴

Here’s the kicker: I used to borrow my hubby’s belt bag when visiting a market or going to the beach, but now I have my own chic companion! 💁‍♀️👛

No more compromising on style or having to borrow his. This pink puffer belt bag is uniquely mine, and mine alone. 😜💖

If you’re someone who, like me, enjoys infusing a bit of fun into your wardrobe, this bag is a must-have. It effortlessly combines joy and style, becoming more than just an accessory but an essential part of my daily ensemble. 😄🎉👗

It could have been a little more spacious for me, although it made me realize I carry a lot of stuff around that I don't really need. 😏🙈

Be aware, though. Tricky thieves might go for easy zippers. But no worries, I've got a great trick! Just carry your bag the other way round, with the zipper facing you! 😲🕵️‍♂️💪

Hope you like my blog.....Until next time.....Have a nice day 

Renata (Seadbeady) 

Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts and receive the next blog posts in your Email inbox  

Follow me on Instagram

Join me in my Facebook group to get more involved, if you want to be in my next gift guide, or just keep in touch 

Want to be on my blog next time?? Want me to review your product?? Just send me a message.

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How To Pamper Your Feet With The Renewed Kneipp Foot Care Treatment For Soft Feet

Hey there, foot care fans! Have you ever dreamed of soft feet that would make a cloud jealous, because those pesky fissures around your toes are giving you more grief than a Monday morning alarm clock?

Picture by Seadbeady

https://www.kneipp.com/be_nl/home/

I get it—I’ve been there too. Those fissures can turn a leisurely stroll into a hobble fest, making you feel you’re tiptoeing through a Lego minefield. 🦶🏽😫🧱

Not that there are any of those lurking in my home right now. My kids have all leveled up, so they successfully defeated that adversary! 🎮👾

Yet, here I am, still dealing with these fissures. So today, I’m jumping into Kneipp’s foot care lineup like a kid let loose in a candy store! 😄🍬🦶

Talking about sore feet reminds me of the time I had to trek up 11 flights of stairs with two tiny humans and a stroller full of groceries because the elevator took a siesta. 😅🧒👶🛒

Talk about a workout! Props to the kind stranger who helped for a couple of floors, even if their superhero moment was shorter than a TikTok video. 🦸‍♂️🙏

Now join me as we navigate through the highs and lows, all the way to the bliss of soft feet with Kneipp. Just a sprinkle of humor and a dash of real-life foot struggles. 😂✨

Let’s kick off our shoes and get ready for a journey into foot care, that is as fun as it is effective! 😄👟🚀

Oh, and did I mention? Kneipp Foot Care has had a makeover! Now with 100% recyclable packaging and less plastic. ♻️✨

Isn't that just the perfect reason for them to send me the goodies below in exchange for my dazzling review? 😄💁‍♀️😍

Picture by Seadbeady

Kneipp Footbutter

Immediately noticeable smooth feet! Pamper your dry and overworked feet with the rich Kneipp® Restorative Foot Butter, and you will get supple and soft feet. The special combination of valuable care ingredients includes 10% urea for a hydrating effect. Skin-soothing panthenol and cell-protecting vitamin E complement the nourishing formula.

The citrus scent with natural essential orange oil is refreshing and helps prevent unpleasant odors.

Picture by Seadbeady

My opinion on the Kneipp Footbutter For Soft Feet

Ah, Kneipp Foot Butter, my new foot fairy godmother! Seriously, after just one day, I could feel my feet becoming softer than a puppy's ears. 😄👣🐾

Ah yes, trust me, I've got more fissures around my toes than a treasure map has X's. Skip this next picture if you are of a sensitive nature. 🙈😬

Picture by Seadbeady

I'm not exactly head-over-heels for the scent. Still, who needs feet smelling like a rose garden, anyway? Then again, scent is like a bad haircut: it's all about personal taste, and you might just adore it! 👃💇‍♂️😄

Anyway, no more rough heels, toe troubles for me. Kneipp Foot Butter is my foot's new BFF. 🦶💖

Picture by Seadbeady

Revitalizing Footbath crystals

Pamper yourself and your feet with a relaxing foot bath after a long day! The citrus scent with natural essential orange oil revitalizes the senses and refreshes. 

The Kneipp® Revitalizing Foot Bath Crystals, with 20% urea, gently cleanse tired and stressed feet, neutralize odor, and soften calluses. Our optimal preparation for subsequent foot care!

Picture by Seadbeady

My opinion on the Revitalizing Footbath Crystals

You know, using Kneipp Revitalizing Foot Bath Crystals is like throwing a citrus soiree for your feet. 🍋✨

They cleanse, they hydrate, they freshen, and they soften. It’s the ultimate foot party, and your feet are the guests of honor. After one soak, you’ll wonder how you ever survived without them. 🎉🤔

And let’s not forget the ultimate summer savior: these crystals are a lifesaver if your feet are totally overheated from a walk on a hot day. Another option could be to stay indoors. 🔥🌞😁

Picture by Seadbeady

Heel fissure cream

Suffering from dry heels with cracks?

The Kneipp Heel Fissure Cream with 30% urea offers a quick and effective solution for dry feet, dry heels, and heel fissures.

The high concentration of urea (30%) deeply hydrates the skin and helps remove dead skin cells, reducing cracks quickly and leaving the skin soft and smooth.

A restorative dry heels cream with 5 natural, organic oils including calendula extract, nourishing avocado oil, and shea butter effectively prevents and heals heel fissures.

Restores moisture balance.

Visibly reduces heel fissures within 3 days.

Why choose Kneipp Heel Fissure Cream?

- 30% urea for an effective solution for cracked foot skin.

- Visibly reduces heel fissures within 3 days.

- Intensive care: 5 natural organic oils and vitamin E.

- Suitable for diabetics: The cream is dermatological tested, hypoallergenic, and suitable for the sensitive diabetic foot.

- Immediate soothing: Panthenol calms irritated skin and reduces redness.

- Pleasant scent: The cream has a light, nourishing fragrance.

Instructions for use:

1. Apply the cream twice daily to clean and dry heels.

2. Gently massage the cream in.

3. For optimal results, use the cream in combination with a Kneipp Foot Bath.

Tip: For very dry feet, we recommend applying the Kneipp Heel Fissure Cream after a foot bath with Kneipp foot bath crystals, and wearing cotton socks to help the cream absorb better.

Picture by Seadbeady

My opinion on the Heel fissure cream

I am lucky to say there are no cracks on my heels, but the Kneipp Heel Fissure Cream turned my dry heels into a smooth sensation. It’s a heel-y good time, and my feet are ready to strut their stuff. 😎💃

Let’s talk practicality. This dry heels cream fits seamlessly into my daily routine. A little goes a long way, making it a cost-effective addition to my skincare arsenal. 😍💰🧴

Ooh, I just adore it when a product doesn't perform a magic trick and make all my money disappear! 🎩💸

I admit, I might be a bit biased about these foot care products, being a Kneipp superfan. Then again, soft feet, 100% recyclable packaging and less plastic have to sound like music in your ears. 😊🦶🎶

Now then, if you're itching to explore more products, dive into my previous blog posts! It's like a treasure hunt, but with less gold and more fabulous finds! 🌟📚💎

https://seadbeady.blogspot.com/2023/12/restore-your-inner-balance-with-new.html

https://seadbeady.blogspot.com/2023/01/how-to-support-good-nights-rest-kneipp.html

Hope you like my blog.....Until next time.....Have a nice day 

Renata (Seadbeady) 

Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts and receive the next blog posts in your Email inbox  

Follow me on Instagram

Join me in my Facebook group to get more involved, if you want to be in my next gift guide, or just keep in touch 

Want to be on my blog next time?? Want me to review your product?? Just send me a message.

Liked my blog post? Share it with your friends by using the buttons below, or let me know what you think with a comment.

Discover Unique Designs for Color Lovers - Tantilly - Unique Clothing

Hey there, fellow color lovers! Do you ever daydream about strutting around in colorful, unique clothing that would make flamingos jealous? And wouldn't it be a riot to wear clothes that scream "ME" louder than a kazoo at a silent disco?

Picture by Seadbeady

https://tantilly-shop.com/nl

Hold on to your hats 👒, or should I say dresses? Why, you ask? Well, because today, I’m featuring a charming pink dress that Tantilly sent me for a blog post. 👗💖

We’re diving headfirst into the wild and wonderful world of one-of-a-kind clothing and unique designs that’ll have you feeling like a rockstar in a room full of rubber chickens! 🎸🐔

Now then, let me tell you, being unique is more important than finding your keys after a night out, and trust me, I’ve been there! Or not??? 😳🔑🍸

Back when I was a sprightly 18-year-old, all I wanted was to blend in with the crowd in the trendiest threads. 😎👥👗

Ah, you are wondering about what now? 🤔 

Now I’m not afraid to stand out, as long as the outfit makes me feel like a million bucks! 💵✨

Also, how many crazy cat ladies, fall chicken bloggers do you know like me? Exactly! Being yourself is the coolest thing you can be. 😎🐱🐔

Ok then, if you’re ready to unleash your inner fashion guru and turn heads like a whirling dervish at a square dance, then buckle up, buttercup, because we’re about to embark on a journey through the whimsical and wacky world of fashion fabulousness! 🌈👗✨

Picture by Seadbeady

Tantilly - Unique Clothing for Color Lovers

Tantilly is a unique Dutch brand based in Deventer, Netherlands, known for its colorful and handmade clothing. Founded in 2009, Tantilly began with handmade jewelry and accessories before expanding to dresses and skirts for color lovers. 

The brand emphasizes creating designs that flatter all body shapes, offering sizes from S to 5XL, and even up to 7XL. Tantilly values traditional craftsmanship, ethnic products, and unique designs, using high-quality fabrics. 

Most items are handmade in small editions in the Netherlands and Fair-Fashion workshops in India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Turkey. Tantilly's mission is to make the world more beautiful and colorful, one unique clothing piece at a time.

Tantilly's philosophy

Making the world a better and more colorful place for everyone! It's important to us that our products are made by small (family) businesses where skilled workers receive a fair and honest wage for their work.

By working with local artisans, we help them generate a sustainable income every year, which in turn helps to have a positive impact on the surrounding community.

We personally oversee all labor conditions, and we consider child labor unacceptable!

Enjoy our website, and in the meantime, we continue to travel around the world in search of more enchanting pieces of craftsmanship and fabrics to share with you and the world...

Be unique! It's a colorful world!

Picture by Seadbeady

Hilde dress - new solid color model dress - pink

The Hilde Dress is an elegant, loose-fitting dress that falls in a modest A-line. It is made from a thicker viscose-stretch fabric, making it very suitable as an in-between dress.

The dress features a round neckline and 3/4 sleeves, with cute pockets on the skirt portion.

The thicker fabric helps to conceal a tummy or curvier areas. ;) It fits loosely around your body.

This dress is available in multiple colors, all featuring a textured pattern in the fabric, such as a dot or a square.

Product Details

*Color: Pink

*Material: 60% Viscose, 30% Cotton, 10% Elastane

*Fit: Straight / Modest A-line

*Length: Just above the knee

*Sleeve Length: 3/4

*Neckline: Round

*Pattern: Solid with a textured design

*Details: Darts

Picture by Seadbeady

My opinion on Hilde dress - new solid color model dress - pink

Talking about making a flamingo jealous, isn't this a beautiful pink? Perfect for color lovers. Right? I have dresses for summer and winter, and this dress is ideal for the in-between seasons. ☀️❄️🌸👗

The modest A-line cut is elegant, and the thicker viscose-stretch fabric makes it perfect for transitional weather. The round neckline and 3/4 sleeves add a touch of sophistication. 💫👗🌤️

Picture by Seadbeady

The cute pockets and subtle textured pattern are charming details. The thicker material flatters the figure without clinging too tightly. It's suitable for various occasions, from work to weekend outings. 💖👜👠

It's unfortunate that the warmth today makes wearing this dress less ideal, yet in Belgium, the weather is famously fickle, often transforming from one day to the next. This unique clothing piece is versatile, stylish, and comfortable. Highly recommended! 👗✂️

Picture by Seadbeady

If you've got a spare moment, how about indulging in the literary masterpiece that is my previous blog post about Tantilly? It's worth it, I promise—just like finding an extra slice of pizza in the fridge! 🍕🤤👌

https://seadbeady.blogspot.com/2024/04/where-to-find-unique-designs-for-color.html

Hope you like my blog.....Until next time.....Have a nice day 

Renata (Seadbeady) 

Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts and receive the next blog posts in your Email inbox  

Follow me on Instagram

Join me in my Facebook group to get more involved, if you want to be in my next gift guide, or just keep in touch 

Want to be on my blog next time?? Want me to review your product?? Just send me a message.

Liked my blog post? Share it with your friends by using the buttons below, or let me know what you think with a comment.

Interview With Fashion Designer Diane Kroe

Hey there, fashion-forward friends! Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a fashion designer? Now what goes into making those super snazzy outfits you see strutting down the runway? 

Picture provided by Diane Kroe

https://www.instagram.com/dianekroestyle

Well, hold on to your glittery belts because today, we’re diving headfirst into the fabulous world of fashion design! 😎👗✨

Picture this: A bustling studio filled with colorful fabrics, sewing machines humming like busy bees, and one seriously stylish lady calling the shots. 🎨✂️

Doesn’t that sounds super cool? You guessed it! I am talking about myself this time. 😁🎉

Are you crazy? Then again, I have had my fair share of experience behind the sewing machine. I’ve had a few moments of mishap, but also some greatness. 🧵😅

Still, I am no designer. I rely on patterns from books or magazines. Oh Yes, even those end up in disaster sometimes. Hey, isn’t that part of the fun?  😄📚✂️

Now, join us as we explore the highs, the lows, and the sheer creativity that comes with the territory of fashion design! 🚀🎢🎨

Let’s kick things off with a couple of burning questions: What’s it like to be a fashion designer? And how does someone go from doodling dress designs in their notebook to strutting their stuff on the catwalk? 🔥👗👠

Sit down with us, and Diane Kroe, to uncover the secrets behind her incredible journey through the wild and whimsical world of fashion design. Trust us, folks, this is one interview you won’t want to miss! 😉🎩✨

Picture provided by Diane Kroe

What is your name, function and the company you own?  

Diane Kroe - I design and manufacture Travel Refined Fashion. If you love travel, packing light, or just want to feel comfortably chic and prepared for life’s wonderful possibilities, then I’m your favourite designer. 

  

What kind of work do you do?

I’m a fashion designer. 

 

What made you decide to become a Fashion Designer?

I met a fashion designer when I was 14 and knew right away that I wanted to be just like her. After school, I began working for her in her boutique, and when I graduated from high school, I began working at her factory and studied fashion at night school at Ryerson and Seneca. I became her assistant designer, and she taught me the business of fashion first hand.  

 

Is fashion important to you? Why?

Fashion is a universal language. It’s how we communicate with each other without using words. 

 

What are your successes, and how did you achieve them?

My greatest success is managing to stay in business for close to 30 years. Fashion is considered one of the most difficult industries in the world to be successful at. How I achieved this was learning the business first by working for others and minimizing my chances of making mistakes before I branched out on my own. 

In the world of fashion, mistakes can be very expensive. Also, I survived 3 recessions and a pandemic where fashion and food (restaurants) were the first to go out of business. 

I achieved this by recession proofing my business by minimizing overhead and maximizing profits by running a tight ship and never overproducing. I have mastered the less is more business model, and this reflects the aesthetic of my brand. 

 

Picture provided by Diane Kroe

What’s something you might want to do in the future?

I also love to travel and discover unknown places. I enjoy shooting my designs in exotic locales and hope to find more time to grow this part of my brand by promoting destinations for my clientele to discover. 

 

Is the name of the Brand important to you when you buy clothing or jewelry?

I prefer discovering brands that are hidden treasures and mixing luxury brand pieces with the practical. I love fashion juxtaposition. 

 

Describe your personal style of fashion?

Less is More. Effortless elegance. A woman should never look like she’s trying too hard…especially today with plastic surgery and exaggerated body altering trends. Fashion is the same way, in my opinion understatement and maintaining a natural body aesthetic sends a universal message of quiet confidence. 

 

How did you find your personal style? Do you have a signature look?

When I was young, I studied in the National Ballet, then later modern dance and jazz … I fell in love with the flowing comfort of dance wear. My signature style is comfort and elegance. If I feel restricted in an outfit, I won’t wear it. 

 

Do you have an influence on other people’s fashion style?

Of course… everything I create is to make my customers prepared for life’s wonderful possibilities in both comfort and style. 

 

Picture provided by Diane Kroe

What are in your eyes the best trends at the moment?  

Running shoes with practically everything. I love that the younger generation aren’t ruining their feet in stilettos like my generation. 

 

What are in your eyes the worst trends at the moment?  

Midriff revealing tops. After having babies, it’s not a flattering look on most women. Though in today’s world, women are rejoicing their bodies no matter what shape or size, and I support that. 

 

What kind of fashion advice would you give us?  

Buy less and choose well. It’s time to put an end to fast fashion and support smaller fashion brands that use ethical practices. Also, support vigorously brands that respect animal rights who don’t use any animal byproducts in their collections.  

 

Who is your style icon, and why?

I have always loved Norma Kimali. She was a pioneer in the world of introducing dance wear textiles into both designer and mainstream fashion. 

 

What do you like most about being a successful fashion designer?  

Nothing makes me happier than creating clothes for my clientele and making them feel prepared for whatever adventures come their way. This is what keeps me driven to keep doing what I love to do. 

Picture provided by Diane Kroe

Thank you, Diane, for taking the time to answer my questions. I totally understand how designing clothes for others makes you happy. 😊👗

 

I know time is valuable, but if you can spare a moment, check out these previous interviews with fashion designers. ⏱️👀

https://seadbeady.blogspot.com/p/fashion-designer-interviews_13.html

Hope you like my blog.....Until next time.....Have a nice day 

Renata (Seadbeady) 

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