Interview with Fashion Designer Andrea Benahmed Djilali

Hey there, fashionistas! Have you ever thought about what a fashion designer does? What if they could wave a magical wand and turn old, boring things into super neat, sparkly treasures? 

Picture provided by Andrea Benahmed Djilali

https://andrealdesign.co.uk/

Well, guess what? We found a fashion wizard, and she’s turning fashion design into a magical adventure! ✨🚀

She’s like a superhero for old clothes, turning them into cool, shiny things that make everyone go, “Wow!” 😲🌟💎

Now wait, let me share a funny secret about myself first. Before I became a magical fashion adventurer, I used to love tearing up torn or worn-out clothes. Can you believe it? 👕🔨

I swear, this time it’s true. No, I am not pulling your leg. I can’t even reach that far. I don't even know where you are. 😟😱

I used to turn those old shirts into magical cleaning cloths! It’s like I had a superpower for making everything useful and fabulous. 🧽🧼 

Ok, maybe not everything, or not that fabulous. After a bit, my rag collection grew so enormous that attempting to pluck one out of the cupboard turned into a comical game of ‘dodge the falling fabric frenzy’! 😂🎮💨

Enough with the detour. Let’s get back to this magical fashion designer story! She also has this totally enchanting project called Seaweed Elegance. 🌿✨

Right, seaweed, that wobbling, underwater plant. You had better read on if you want to know what she does to make it fashion fun, fancy, and friendly to our Earth. 🌍💚😍

Ready to join us on this magical fashion adventure? 🤔😮

We’ll find out how she turns boring things into fancy treasures and discover why seaweed is the newest superhero in the fashion world. 👗🌎

Get ready to be amazed, and maybe even get some ideas for your own magical fashion spells! 🚀👑✨

Picture provided by Andrea Benahmed Djilali

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

Andrea Benahmed Djilali founder of AndReal Design

How old are you?

51

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

I specialize in transformative projects, notably the Re-Birth Denim initiative. My focus is to spotlight the inherent value within discarded materials, turning what might seem like waste into valuable resources with renewed purpose. 

Through the creation of handmade handbags and accessories, I present a sustainable and stylish collection where clients can discover cohesive pieces all in one place. Repairing leather handbags, to breathe new life into them. 

Additionally, I've embarked on the Seaweed Elegance project, a jewelry collection that showcases the beauty and sustainability of seaweed. This venture, named Seaweed Elegance, embodies my commitment to innovative and eco-friendly design, offering clients a unique and nature-inspired accessory line.

What made you decide to become a Fashion Designer?

Becoming a Fashion Designer was a journey fueled by my love for creating unique clothing. From cutting down my father's leather jacket to crafting skirts from old blankets, each piece told a story. 

I recall the amused looks and questions—a police officer even asked if I was from abroad because of my unconventional skirt. These moments of turning everyday materials into fashion sparked my decision to share my vision as a designer. 

Is fashion important to you? Why? 

Fashion holds great significance for me as it goes beyond mere clothing; it's a form of self-expression and a reflection of individuality. 

I believe that you are what you wear, and the choices we make in fashion directly influence our sense of self. The clothes we choose impact not only how others perceive us but, more importantly, how we feel about ourselves.

For me, the process of creating something unique is akin to a meditation—a serene and introspective journey. It's a form of artistic expression that allows me to translate my thoughts, emotions, and personality into tangible designs. Through fashion, I find a powerful outlet to express myself, to tell a story without uttering a word. 

In my creative process, I use denim as my canvas, painting on it to bring my ideas to life. This unique medium adds a distinctive touch, symbolizing the versatility and durability of my artistic expression.

Picture provided by Andrea Benahmed Djilali

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

I've had some exciting moments on this creative journey:

International Art & Design Competition 2018 (Italy): 

Winning felt like a dream! It showed that creativity knows no borders.

2020 Independent Handbag Designer Award (New York): 

Being a finalist was a big deal—it's New York, after all! Handmade bags, making waves internationally.

Veracity Innovation in Fashion Top Designer Award (Fashion Fiesta 2023): 

The latest win for my Re-Birth Denim collection - a recognition of innovation in sustainable fashion.

Behind all this excitement is a lot of hard work and endless hours. 

Big shoutout to my patient family—I can't thank them enough for being my biggest supporters. These wins motivate me to keep pushing boundaries in the world of creative and sustainable fashion!

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

In the future, I'm eager to continue hosting workshops, sharing my passion and expertise with students from diverse backgrounds. The joy of fostering learning and creativity is something I want to sustain.

Additionally, I envision hosting AndReal Fashion shows in collaboration with other brands. The central message will be a powerful one: "We are not competitors; we are each unique." 

I believe in the strength of teamwork, emphasizing that collective efforts lead to success. Supporting new brands is a priority, aiming to guide them and help avoid the challenges I faced in my early days.

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

Not particularly. When it comes to clothing or jewelry, the brand name isn't a decisive factor for me. I make purchases based on an immediate connection—when an item resonates with me and feels like a perfect match in that moment, that's when I decide to buy. It's more about the personal connection and the love I feel for the piece at that specific time.

Describe your personal style of fashion?

My personal fashion style revolves around unique pieces rather than mass-produced items. I'm not a fan of seeing multiple people on the street wearing the same dress or carrying the same handbag. That's why I intentionally design distinct dresses and handbags, ensuring that each piece stands out and reflects individuality. 

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

My fashion journey led me to a style that's all about elegance, with a sprinkle of gold sparkle and plenty of lace. My favorite aesthetic involves the allure of gold, the shimmer of sparkle, and the timeless beauty of lace—elements that define my signature look. The rococo era serves as a significant inspiration, influencing my design choices and capturing the essence of refined sophistication. 

Picture provided by Andrea Benahmed Djilali

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

I've had the pleasure of seeing the genuine excitement in people when they discover and wear my designs. There's a unique joy in witnessing someone feel different, confident, and inspired by what they wear. 

It's these moments that affirm the positive influence fashion can have on individual style. So, based on those experiences, I'd say yes, my designs do have an impact on people's fashion choices, and that's something truly special.

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

The best trend, in my eyes, is the shift towards sustainable and mindful fashion. I've noticed the abundance of unused clothes in my wardrobe and asked myself, "Why have these if I never wear them?" This realization led me to embark on upcycling, transforming forgotten pieces into something I'd love to wear.

Working on my upcycling project has become a passion. Why buy new fabric or dresses when there are tons of pieces ready for a creative revival? Upcycling is not just a sustainable path; it's a journey that nurtures a creative mind, promoting a thoughtful and eco-friendly approach to fashion.

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

In my perspective, one of the less favorable trends at the moment is the prevalence of excessive cut-outs on dresses. It seems that, at times, designers may lose the balance, making garments appear more vulgar than stylishly sexy. Striking the right balance in design is crucial to maintaining a sense of sophistication and elegance in fashion.

What kind of fashion advice would you give us?

Invest in versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. This not only maximizes your wardrobe but also allows for diverse and stylish looks.

If you have a beloved dress that's damaged and you're reluctant to part with it, consider consulting an upcycling designer. They can offer creative solutions to salvage and transform the dress into a new, cherished piece, extending its life and sentimental value.

Buy a little black dress has long been hailed as a staple in every fashion-forward woman's wardrobe. Its versatility allows for endless styling possibilities.

Who is your style icon, and why?

Audrey Hepburn is a timeless fashion icon known for her sophisticated, minimalist, and elegant style.

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

If you're a denim lover, it would be my pleasure to create something special for you. Alternatively, if you have a favorite dress or handbag that you'd like to breathe new life into, simply reach out to me. Anything is possible, and I'm here to bring your fashion dreams to reality. 

Picture provided by Andrea Benahmed Djilali

Big thanks to Andrea Benahmed Djilali for tackling those questions! It's a joy for me to discover individuals who have a warm heart for nature. 🌿🌟

"Now, you absolutely, positively, without a doubt, have to take a stroll down memory lane and read my last blog post. Well, okay, maybe not a 'have to,' more like a 'pretty, pretty please with a cherry on top, won't you give it a go?'" 😄📚

https://seadbeady.blogspot.com/2023/10/interview-with-fashion-designer-margo.html

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

Renata (Seadbeady) 

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Wedding Dress Fashion Design Techniques and Their Historical Origins By Tess Mann

Hi There..... Are you interested in wedding dress fashion design?

Picture provided by Tess 

https://www.instagram.com/couture_by_tess/

https://tessmannhautecouture.com/

Sadly, I cannot share any insights about my personal wedding dress designs since I have never actually designed any garments. 😢

However, when I was approximately 14 years old, I did sew a long dress for myself, using a pattern, to wear to a wedding that I was attending as a guest. That was the extent of my experience with gown creations. 😉

You might have expected me to retract my previous statement as a joke, but I assure you that it's true, and to top it off, the dress turned out fantastic. 😁

Ok, I know what you are thinking; "where did this blog post come from". Ooh, you Snoopy Sally, always asking questions. 😂

I use a tool called Qwoted to find the experts for my interviews. Every month I renew my requests there, and if I find the time, I try to contact people from their database, to ask them to pitch my requests. 😎

Last time I received the following message; "I have recently placed Tess in a series of interviews and she has requested to take a break from interviews for a couple months due to time constraints/schedule. As an alternative, I can send you an original article about Tess and her bridal gown labels." 😊

Now how could I say no to that? The opportunity was too good to simply wave goodbye like a mediocre first date. 😄

Well then, fasten your seatbelts and hold onto your hats - we're about to embark on a wild ride through the history of wedding dress fashion design techniques! 😍

Wedding Dress Fashion Design Techniques and Their Historical Origins

By Tess Mann, Fashion Designer

 

Picture provided by Tess 

Intro about wedding dresses fashion design

When it comes to designing a wedding dress, there are many elements that go into making a gown that will create the perfect fit for the bride’s body and unique tastes. 

Take a moment to visualize a dream wedding. Within that visualization, the dress is likely the statement piece. The white wedding dress has been the bride's attire since the beginning of medieval times and was a symbol of purity. 

In modern-day, wedding dresses can be any shade of the rainbow as long as the bride feels confident. In addition to color, the neckline, bodice, sleeves, color, texture, skirt, train, material, waistline, and more are all design techniques used to give every bride plenty of options. 

It can also be difficult to shop for a wedding dress that suits the silhouette, personality, and vision of each bride. Knowing specific techniques and their purposes can help you find the perfect fit.

By identifying different techniques, brides can find individual designs that they love. Here are some techniques to help explain what to look for.

 

Picture provided by Tess 

Hand-Beading

Beading can be a tedious and time-consuming task. Although this is true, it raises the value of your dress for the time and labor put into it. It will allow the bride to showcase their personality through the distinctive design, color, and style of beading. 

Choosing the look of the bead is the first step in the design process, and then moving on to exactly where you would like them placed is next. When it comes to the technique, the best choice is to sew each bead in one by one. 

Though time-consuming to complete, if the bride were to snag a thread and it breaks, the dress would only lose one bead. The important part of beading is being sure each bead and pattern is consistent. 

Beadwork has been around since the 14th century, beginning with the embellishing of beads into Native American clothing, and has only become even more useful when designing.  

Use of Boning

Boning can come in handy when it comes to making a wedding dress secure and sturdy. This is a technique used to create structure in the dress and can be very important when it comes to fit. 

For instance, between the lining of plus-size bridal gowns, construction should include drill/double-mounted interfacing (similar to a strong canvas) as well as strong boning in various locations throughout the bust area, waist, and even down the back. 

There are also several different kinds of boning. Each type of boning material has the ability to give a more flexible structure depending on personal tastes. 

These materials, such as metal and plastic, are placed into seams or casings to become somewhat invisible. Boning originated in the bustles of Victorian dresses in the 1870s. Those queens knew how to get their dresses to create a desired silhouette, and now so do you. 

Hand-Drawn Embroidery

Embroidery allows the designer to add simple or complex designs throughout the fabric using a needle and thread or embroidery machines. 

The most difficult part of this process is mapping out the embroidery design. From simple flowers to intricate patterns, this will be the most important step. 

Often when it comes to wedding gowns, economical designs will have pre-made embellishments that are easily sewn on. 

Hand embroidery has been found to go back as far as 30,000 BC near China with beautiful embellishments and thread embroidery on their shoes and clothing. Embroidery was seen as a special craft and a way of creating art. Today, embroidery still holds that value.

 

Picture provided by Tess 

Adding Buttons

When it comes to a wedding dress, buttons can be very useful. Though useful, it can be hard to make them sturdy and stable, especially for a whole night of mingling and dancing as well as remaining intact through generations. 

Buttons on a bridal gown can be used in many ways: decoration, functionality, and necessity. Buttons down the back or sides of the dress will help a bride not feel so snug when putting their gown on, but perfectly snug when all buttoned up. 

You can also use the buttons to your advantage to create texture and a unique look as they cascade down the back or wrap from one side up to the other. 

High-quality garments will place thread security as a priority. After securing the thread, the needle is looped through the hole(s) of your button(s) and then secured to the fabric before looping through again. This helps the fabric become an anchor for the button and not only the thread. 

Buttons have been in existence for a very long time, not as long as embroidery, but they have been useful to people since around 5,000 BC. Buttons have been said to hold a spiritual symbolism since that time, acting as protection from negativity.

Pleats

Pleats can range from simple to intricate depending on what kind of material is used. Pleats are a type of fold made across the fabric and can be cohesive or vary for unique looks. 

There are different kinds of pleats such as accordion pleats, box pleats, rolled pleats, and many others. This technique of design also has plenty of benefits when used in clothing, especially gowns. 

Pleats are utilized to create texture, depth, flow, and dimension within a carefully-designed piece. 

To pleat, the fabric is folded in a zig-zag pattern at the top of where the pleats begin. This process can be made easier by using a pleating tool to make sharp turns in the fabric. 

The origin of pleating is actually quite an interesting one. Coming from ancient Egypt, pleats were used in the clothing of royalty to signify they were rulers and had power and wealth. 

This pleating was usually done on natural materials such as silk, cotton, and wool, which are still some of the easiest materials to pleat.

 

Picture provided by Tess 

Darts

A dart is a simple technique that makes a big difference. Darts are small, folded pieces of fabric that have been tapered and stitched down, which helps flat fabric take shape. 

They can be used to give shape to a shoulder, neck, bust, and even waistline. There are also several different types of darts such as the standard dart, French dart, curved dart, and several others. 

Used to create texture and dimension, this is such a simple way to spice up a design. Darts can be a challenge of trial and error sometimes to get the fabric to lay just how the designer likes it, but it’s a simple technique of lining it up and sewing. 

Referred to as “fishes” in the 19th century, darts were very popular in high-end men’s attire.

Ruching

Ruching is a similar technique to pleating but produces a totally different look. The layers of the fabric create a frill, ripple-like effect. It constructs extreme volume and texture, as well as catches the eye. 

When it comes to ruching, it’s visually similar to pleating, but the technique is done very differently. First, take a long piece of thread, and sew it across where you want your ruching to be. Next, pull the thread and the fabric will bunch up. 

Then the designer can meticulously place the ruches and sew over them to keep them in place. Pins are going to be your best friend as a designer when using this technique. 

Ruching dates back to ancient Greece which used ruching just like we do today, as an intricate design on our clothing.

Pockets

Pockets can add a lot to a design. Not only are they a nearly necessary functional technique to put into your piece, but they can be created and placed in so many different ways. 

Pockets in dresses have become increasingly popular, especially in the wedding dress scene. Pockets have a knack for being able to go anywhere on a dress: the sides or maybe just one side, on the inside by the leg, or a small insert on the sleeve…the possibilities of hiding a pocket are truly endless. 

Pockets can create more volume among the skirt of the dress if that is preferred. They can be placed on any style of dress. Pockets can also be made out of any material if it is hidden beneath an opaque fabric, making it easy to implement something sentimental such as a piece of fabric from a late grandparent or parent. 

They can simply be added to a garment after the design process upon request, as well. Cut out the pocket pieces in the desired size. Figure out placement for the pocket. Open up the side seams on the inside and sew on if you are putting them on the sides of your dress, or simply sew three different sides on if on the inside. 

Recapitulation

There are so many design techniques that can be used to give wedding dress designs that distinctive flare. Couture wedding dresses have become the best way to get the look you want for your perfect day. 

Having an expert fashion designer to work with can give brides a good idea of what techniques are important to implement into “the dress” or designs you might not have thought of before.

Picture provided by Tess 

Thank you so much Tess for taking some time off, but most of all for giving me the permission to share this interesting piece about Wedding dresses. 😍

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

Renata (Seadbeady) 

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Interview With Fashion Designers Jackson Cunningham and Josh Bluman

Hi There..... Are you ready for a new fashion designer's interview? 

Picture provided by Jackson Cunningham and Josh Bluman

https://www.jjsuspenders.com/

Today’s interview is all about men’s suspenders. Did you ever wear them? I haven’t, or at least not as far as I can recall. No, they weren’t a thing when I was a baby, so that’s out of the question, too. 😏

What I have worn a very long time ago is a garter belt. Ah yes, on my wedding day, because my mom talked me into it. Not that I minded, because I found it quite fun, and it absolutely fit the type of dress I wore that day. 😊

Picture by Seadbeady

Romantic, isn’t it? I can’t show you the garter belt anymore, because it got lost somewhere, and after 36 years, we still haven’t found it. Perhaps some jealous broad took it thinking, “If I’m not getting any tonight, you won’t either”. 😂

I’m going to whisper because not everyone needs to know what I'm going to tell you right now. Perhaps we were way too tired to do anything but sleep on our wedding night. True or false, you will never know. 😴

Enough of this whispering time to scream it out about those men's suspenders from the fashion designers on my blog. Ah yes, they came in a package of 2 this time. 😉

Picture provided by Jackson Cunningham and Josh Bluman

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

We are Jackson Cunningham and Josh Bluman, the Founders of JJ Suspenders!

How old are you?

35

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

We are entrepreneurs with a background in marketing and product development.

What made you decide to become a Fashion Designer?

We actually never originally intended to become fashion designers, rather it just kind of happened when we entered the suspender business. Basically, we saw an excellent opportunity to make a higher quality product and to deliver on that promise we had to learn fashion design. Luckily, it worked out well!

 

Picture provided by Jackson Cunningham and Josh Bluman

Is fashion important to you? Why?

Absolutely. It's how you present yourself. The vibe you want to give. It's how you represent yourself and identify with others. A form of art. 

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

We're very proud of our company, jjsuspenders.com which was successful right from the start. It was the first time we designed our own products, and we put a lot of effort into making sure every detail was perfect.

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

It depends. You can buy a brand because they have a reputation, and therefore you don't have to think about the purchase as much or evaluate other options if you trust them. Or the brand could represent something you want to be a part of. I think both can be important depending on the type of clothing. 

Describe your personal style of clothing?

Minimalist!

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

I enjoy going with what’s easy and consistent. So these days, a crisp white tee shirt and jeans.

Picture provided by Jackson Cunningham and Josh Bluman

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

I don't try to. But with our business, jjsuspenders.com, for sure. Lots of people are inspired by the styles of men's suspenders and the options we present in how you can wear them.

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

Over the last few years, seems to be organic and rustic colors (dark greens, browns, reds). But I suspect more bold and bright colors are on the horizon. Cottage core is also interesting. You should check out my friend Natalia (https://www.instagram.com/wandwoodsstudio/) who just launched a brand aligned with this trend. 

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

Nothing comes to mind, really. Style is so personal, and we should be careful not to judge others.

What kind of fashion advice would you give us?

Be yourself. Wear what you want. But consider best practices and your audience. For example, if you're going to a rustic wedding, you may not want to dress overly formal. But, maybe you do? As long as you're aware of your own style, and your audience, you'll be golden.

Picture provided by Jackson Cunningham and Josh Bluman

Thanks so much, Jackson and Josh for answering all my questions. I love how refined your men's suspenders are. 😍

Would you mind asking your friend if she would care to be on my blog because I also love her style? 😁

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 

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Where can I find amazing phone accessories

Hi There..... Do you like to live in Luxury?

I don't think I will ever have the luxury to really live in luxury 😀

But then again who needs luxury..... When you got love..... As the Beatles sang 'Money can't buy me love'..... Although a little bit of luxury never hurt anyone 😁

And as iDeal of Sweden says 'Embrace everyday luxury with our exclusive phone accessories'..... I beg your pardon.....Oh sorry..... It just surprised me that you don't know iDeal of Sweden since they are a very popular brand 😄

They are a global fashion and lifestyle brand and they create the most amazing phone accessories..... Well, not only phone accessories but also phone wallets, charging cables, power banks to clutches and other fashion pieces..... Their designs are inspired by the latest fashion trends and interior..... Really they are the prettiest I have ever seen 😊

And on top of that, they are known for their commitment to outstanding quality and high standards..... Every product of theirs is handmade and 100% vegan and cruelty-free 😍 

What can I say I am a huge fan of handmade..... And don't tell me that's it's not amazing..... What did I just say now..... I said don't tell me..... If you say so I probably won't believe you anyway 😂

Let me show you a few things from their website 😊

https://idealofsweden.co.uk/p/fashion-case-iphone-11-pro-scarlet-satin

https://idealofsweden.co.uk/p/fashion-case-iphone-11-pro-sparkle-greige-marble

https://idealofsweden.co.uk/p/kensington-clutch-iphone-11-pro-beige

https://idealofsweden.co.uk/p/fashion-qi-charger-golden-rusty-marble

https://idealofsweden.co.uk/p/magnetic-ring-mount-antique-roses-w

https://idealofsweden.co.uk/p/ideal-x-glacial-bottle-golden-jade-marble

They are pretty cool..... Don't you agree 😎

And I have a great opportunity for you..... And this time..... Happy me..... There is something in it for me too..... A freebie 😄

You can use my code ID15-721505 at checkout to get 15% off your entire purchase at iDeal Of Sweden! idealofsweden.com

Or maybe you would like to be an ambassador too - I am pretty sure you will love it - just follow this link https://api.brandbassador.com/s/7nm0aa

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

Renata (Seadbeady) 

Behind every unique handmade piece is a lot of hard work. It's a labor of love and every piece you buy will make someone's day a happy day. 

Follow me on Bloglovin https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/seadbeadys-fashion-lifestyle-blog-19062377 

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