Sunday, 26 February 2023

Interview with Jewelry Designer Rustin Yasavolian

Hi There..... Are you a fan of chunky jewelry, or do you prefer fine jewelry? 


Picture provided by Rustin Yasavolian

You know what that means. It's time for another jewelry designer interview. Perhaps I should skip the first part of my blog post, where I give you a kind of introduction, and jump straight to the interview? 😬

Would you like that? If you said yes, too bad because I have no intention of changing that part. Before you know you will want me to skip the middle part, and while you are at it, let's get rid of the end, too. 😲

Ah, I'm sorry, I was just thinking to myself, and that, you, was just me talking to my brain. It answered, yes, because at the moment I am staring at a blank page, not knowing what to tell you today. 😱

Have you ever had a brain freeze but absolutely wanted to get something written? It's not that hard. You just talk about what you are experiencing at that moment, and before you know it, it filled your blank page with a multitude of words. You should try it sometime. 😁

The point is, never give in to yourself. Does that make any sense? Probably not. The only thing that makes sense today is that this new jewelry designer interview is about fine jewelry. 😍

Picture provided by Rustin Yasavolian

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

My name is Rustin Yasavolian, and I’m the CEO of Masina Diamonds. 

How old are you?

I’m 29 years old

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

I own and operate Masina Diamonds. We are a jewelry store in Atlanta that specializes in custom design of fine jewelry, loose diamonds, and engagement rings.

What made you decide to become a Jewelry Designer?

My family has owned Masina Diamonds since 1984, so I grew up around the diamond industry. Growing up, I was very creative and enjoyed drawing. I knew I wanted to get into a career that let me enjoy that creative freedom. 

After graduating, I joined the Masina team and saw how our fine jewelry creations brought so much joy to our clients. From that point on, I knew that this was the career for me. This path allowed me to look at diamonds artistically, which brought people's ideas to life. 

Is fashion important to you? Why? 

Fashion is important to me; it is like an art. I think it allows people to express themselves without dialogue. Everyone is an artist and they convey their style through their clothing and accessories.

Picture provided by Rustin Yasavolian

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

A few of my successes are winning Wedding Wire’s Couple Choice Award from 2019 to 2021. 
Another one of my successes is being featured in Brides 2023 and holding a Google 5-star rating with over 260 reviews. I believe that if you create something of quality with beauty and attention to detail, the work will speak for itself. 

We have worked with some of the greatest talents on the Atlanta Braves, including Ozzie Albies and Matt Olson. I talked to the CEO of the organization to put in our bid for the 2021 World Championship rings and although they already signed a contract with another organization; it was a great learning experience. 

We achieved these feats by providing excellent service and honest opinions. I am a big believer in only curating or selling jewelry I would offer my family or loved ones. In the end, your clients really become like your extended family. 

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

My future goal is to create Masina into a fine design house that designs accessories outside of just fine jewelry. I want to create a team that can branch into other aspects of luxury, like handbags, colognes, and other accessories.

I also want to continue to work with professional athletes. Unfortunately, jewelers in my industry understand that these people have money tied to their names, so some of them overpay for jewelry. In my eyes, everyone should be treated and educated the same, especially in something like diamonds, since it is not something people typically deal with on a day to day. 

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

Although I believe certain brands are extremely innovative with their designs, brand names are not particularly important to me. I believe that as long as you can make clothing or jewelry work together in unison, that name on the tag is irrelevant.

Describe your personal style of fashion?

I’m very simple with my personal style, especially in clothing. Although I enjoy dressing up, I’m most comfortable in a plain shirt, Lulu Lemon joggers, and a luxury watch. I pay more attention to the detail in accessories. When a person can captivate a room with a simple style, you know it is not what they are wearing but how they wear it.  

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

I found my personal style based on what I’m most comfortable in. The more comfortable I am, the better I can think and operate. My signature look is a plain button down shirt, business casual slacks, two simple gold chains (18”, 20”), and a luxury watch. 

Picture provided by Rustin Yasavolian

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

I would say I have a slight influence on people’s fashion. I am asked often what goes well together and what we should avoid, especially with jewelry accessories. 

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

My favorite trend at the moment is how yellow gold is making a comeback in the industry. There is something so beautiful and captivating about gold in its natural yellow color. Human history has been intertwined with this precious yellow metal for as long as we have been around, and I think its use pays homage to the ones before us.

One of the most popular trends in the engagement ring space has been the move toward simplicity. We have a lot of clients now that prefer to go with a very simple solitaire band and diamond. They want the focus of their engagement ring to be the diamond itself rather than everything else going on around it.

Another one of my favorite trends is the use of sleek bezel set diamonds. It is a very modern, and contemporary look that again keeps the focus on the center stone. 

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

It is hard for me to say what bad trends are. For fashion and jewelry, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Like art, what one person sees as unattractive, another person sees as captivating and breathtaking.
  

What kind of fashion advice would you give us?

My fashion advice is to stick with simplicity within your realm and taste. A simple style with a matching color palette goes with everything. Again, it is not what you wear but how you wear it. Insecurities are loud, and confidence is quiet. 

Who is your style icon and why?

One of my favorite style icons is the Cartier Family and their story. They were one of the first design houses to introduce platinum in jewelry. They also created the iconic “Love” bracelet in 1969, which is still one of the most highly sought-after jewelry pieces almost 54 years later. The idea is that it needs 2 people to put the bracelet on given the screw mechanism, giving it its name “Love” bracelet. 

Picture provided by Rustin Yasavolian

Thank you, Rustin, for filling in my questions. It's not that I am thinking about getting married again because I love my husband to pieces, but I couldn't help browsing your wedding bands out of sheer curiosity, and they look amazing.

If you are curious about my previous interviews with jewelry designers, here are the links.

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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Sunday, 19 February 2023

Interview With Fashion Designer Charles Fratto

Hi There..... Are you ready to learn more about events in the fashion industry? 


Picture provided by Charles Fratto

Great, then you'll be particularly interested in this fashion designer interview that I have for you today. 

Doesn't it sound great to go to fashion events? Can you believe I have never been to any? 😯

I wouldn't even know who I'd have to ask to get an invitation to an important event in the fashion industry. Humor me, and spill your secret if you know. 😜

Don't worry, I know how to keep a secret. My lips are sealed. Oh my, you don't want to see the image that's locked in my brain at the moment. 😬

I was thinking of a horror movie where a killer sewed his victim's mouth shut. Mind you, that's not what I had planned. 😟

Ouch, perhaps I just planted the image in your brain now. Not what I had planned, either. 😱

Ok, new plan, let's find out what the answers are from the fashion designer I am starring in my blog today. 😉

Picture provided by Charles Fratto

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

My name is Charles Fratto and I am the style director of ILOE STUDIOS, one of the nation’s premier fashion trade show events. 

How old are you?

29

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

ILOE STUDIOS focuses on fostering connections across the entire fashion industry with events that inspire and deliver an outstanding return on investment for both exhibitors and attendees. 

As style director, my role is to ensure we meet these goals while creating an exceptional experience for our clients. I ensure our events resonate with our clients and tell the story of fashion today with trends that are timely and on-brand. 

From a practical standpoint, this means working closely with our operations coordinator to increase the appeal and accessibility of our show floor as well. Our goal is to not only engage our clients but also provide unparalleled business opportunities throughout their experience. 

What made you decide to become a Fashion Designer?

I’ve always been creative-minded. Before I earned my degree in fashion design, I was a professional dancer in Salt Lake City, Utah. My sister had been traveling abroad for two months and I decided I wanted to make her a dress as a homecoming gift. 

I had never even sewn or seen a sewing pattern before, but I took on the idea as a fun challenge and found that I was enthralled with the process. I learned to thread the sewing machine, choose fabric, and ultimately, made her a black lace evening dress with no measurements. Somehow, it all came together and fit her perfectly. 

Her reaction inspired me to pursue fashion as a career. I wanted to recreate that moment for others. Later I enrolled in the Fashion Institute in Salt Lake City, and now I continue to design womenswear while working as a style director. 

Is fashion important to you? Why? 

Fashion is one of the few aspects of life that is both utilitarian and expressive. Everyone wears clothes – they are functional. But our clothing and accessory choices convey who we are, how we feel, and how we see ourselves in the world. 

It is the seamless connection between function and form that excites me when I think about fashion. I think the same goes for the process of designing and creating apparel, which is why I have found so much satisfaction in my fashion career.  

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

I am always so proud at the end of our ILOE STUDIOS shows because I have the chance to see how the event and the connections that we foster are not only helping our clients but also their employees and their communities through their business success. 

Being able to help someone achieve a great win in business has a ripple effect that is truly mind-boggling. 

Picture provided by Charles Fratto

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

I love to learn and I am always seeking new opportunities to expand my experience, knowledge, and skills. One of the great things about the fashion industry is that it is extremely diverse, with endless facets to explore. 

At ILOE STUDIOS, I bring the same eagerness to learn, to my commitment, to the continuous improvement, and enhancement of our events. 

I aim to be at the forefront of industry innovation so that I can incorporate new ideas and best practices to help our exhibitors and attendees enjoy a more effortless experience. 

I take a lot of inspiration from other industries where client service is paramount. Our goal is to best serve our clients in such a way that they focus solely on their success at the show. We cover all the details so they can achieve, and even exceed, their business goals. 

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

Quality is what I'm most focused on with my purchases. I’m infamous among my friends for turning everything inside out when I’m shopping so I can see how it was made. I also think it’s important to remember that brands create a story and a world that we as consumers aspire to join. 

If the brand inspires me and its products are well-made and with quality materials, then I’m all in.

Describe your personal style of fashion?

Before I moved to Florida, the colder weather in Utah inspired me to lean into layering. Now, I am just a little more strategic and materials-conscious. I wear a lot of natural fibers like cotton and linen, as well as rayon and tropical wool. My overall aesthetic is relaxed yet polished. 

For special occasions, I love to dress up and bring my unique spin to classically inspired silhouettes. For example, I like to pair more formal, tailored items with something unexpected, like a shawl instead of the traditional suit jacket. 

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

My personal style experience has been mostly trial and error, but when I first became “fashion aware,” I really leaned toward classic styling and dressing. Being that I love to design womenswear, I looked for opportunities to integrate elements of those designs into more traditional menswear. 

I’m also an avid knitter, so I would knit large shawls and pair them with my formal looks for various events like ballet or galas. 

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

Whenever my opinion is asked, I love to help others discover their style and fashion awareness. I continue to make dresses for my sister and mother, and I always welcome opportunities to style others. 

Picture provided by Charles Fratto

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

I am fascinated by the element of surprise we are seeing in the luxury space now. Bottega Veneta, for example, recently showed Kate Moss on the runway wearing what appeared to be jeans and a flannel button-down. 

We later learned that they actually made both items of leather. It was an immense surprise, especially considering the way the apparel moved. I’m looking forward to more of these types of surprises. 

Another interesting shift is in sustainability, including both how they make apparel and who is making it. Many people aren’t aware that every item they wear is physically sewn by a person, and it’s important that we respect those individuals. I hope we continue to see more appreciation for the artisans and those who are making our clothes and accessories. 

What kind of fashion advice would you give us?

On the business side, I always encourage others to learn as much as they can and to take every opportunity – even those that seem scary at first – to learn and grow. 

Who is your style icon and why?

I’ve never drawn inspiration from a singular individual because style is always evolving and changes throughout our lives. However, I enjoy seeing how others approach their style. I am drawn to others’ attitudes toward fashion, much more than their approach. 

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

Dress for yourself and tell your own story. Embrace what you like, and what you want to convey to the world in both your style and work in the fashion industry. 

Picture provided by Charles Fratto

Thank you, Charles, for filling in my questions. I think it's incredibly cool what you did for your sister. 

Looking for more inspiring interviews from fashion designers? Check out some of my previous blog posts:

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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Wednesday, 15 February 2023

Where To Find a Clear Handbag - Margo Paige - Sustainable Fashion

Hi There..... Are you into sustainable fashion? Have you ever seen or bought a clear handbag?


Picture by Seadbeady

I am not saying we should all buy vintage. There are new sustainable fashion items you can buy. 😊

I thought it wouldn’t be bad for bloggers to set a good example, so a story around this clear handbag could be a great idea. 😎

Ok, I have another question for you. Don’t you just hate it when you spill something on your new handbag, and it’s damaged without repair? No matter how hard you try, the spot won’t come off. 😬

Oh yes, I’ve had this happen to me, and my clothes have had their fair share too. No need to worry, though, because spilling is what I do best. 😂

Ok, maybe not the best, but I’m pretty good at it. Especially when we are eating out. If I dare to order something with a sauce, I can guarantee there will be stains after. 😋

I’m not one to brag, but this is something I am better at than most. Hey, I am not suggesting there is no one better at it. Let me know if you are, I am desperate to know. 😏

High time to tell you some more about the clear handbag I received from Margo Paige in exchange for my honest opinion. 😍

Picture by Seadbeady

About Margo Paige

I founded Margo Paige as a response to the moral dilemmas I encountered in my life. Although I've always had a passion for handbags and fashion, the industry itself clashed with my personal values. I observed a prevalence of people and brands indulging in excessive consumption of bags, clothing, and more.

In addition to the industry's wasteful practices, I couldn't ignore the frequent news stories highlighting poor labor conditions and environmental pollution within the fashion world. After delving into this issue, I uncovered some concerning facts:

- Research indicates that consumers bought 60% more clothing in 2014 compared to 2000.
- An astonishing 85% of textiles produced by the fashion industry end up in landfills every year.
- The fashion industry contributes nearly 10% of the world's annual greenhouse gas emissions and ranks as the second-largest water consumer among industries.

Terms like waste, excess, and negative environmental impact have become synonymous with the fashion industry, especially fast fashion.

As I witnessed other industries I cared about, such as food and events, taking steps to improve their practices, I felt inspired. Organics and Fair Trade products were becoming standard on supermarket shelves, while football games and concerts were adopting zero-waste policies and providing attendees with reusable options to reduce waste. This progress was encouraging.

However, the fashion industry, while showing some efforts from industry leaders, wasn't making the necessary strides to address the pressing social and environmental challenges of our time. I realized that I could contribute to the solution by establishing a handbag brand rooted in sustainability. For me, this meant creating versatile pieces that matched my lifestyle.

Our designs, like the transparent handbag that facilitates event access and seamlessly transitions to brunch or nightlife, were crafted with multifunctionality in mind. These pieces not only catered to various lifestyle needs but also embodied a commitment to minimizing waste, sustainable fashion, and timeless design.

Though the realms of sustainability and event bag guidelines are intricate, our mission is straightforward. Margo Paige produces sustainable, multifunctional, and stylish products that enable your lifestyle to align with your values.

Picture by Seadbeady

Clear Handbags

Introducing the most elegant and environmentally conscious clear handbags available today. We've introduced four timeless transparent handbag designs that will become essential pieces in your collection for years to come.

These handbags effortlessly enhance any ensemble, regardless of the season. What's more, they are all manufactured with sustainability in mind, from the materials used to our workforce, all the way to your doorstep. We trust that you'll take as much delight in our latest release as we do!

Picture by Seadbeady

Cut Out Crossbody Clear Handbag

Material

GRS Certified Materials 
Recycled PU is 40% Recycled Post-Consumer Polyester + 60% Polyurethane
100% artificial renewable and degradable properties PVC

Care

For the proper maintenance of your handbag, gently clean the product using mild soap or detergent combined with warm water. It's best to use a non-abrasive towel, such as a microfiber or soft cloth. Alternatively, anti-bacterial wipes can also be used. 

Sustainability

Clear Recycled PVC boasts impressive longevity and durability, effectively extending the lifespan of this handbag and preventing it from ending up in landfills prematurely.

Utilizing Recycled PVC not only conserves resources but also diminishes the need for virgin fossil fuel-derived materials, all while maintaining the same high-performance characteristics.

The incorporation of faux detailing not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also aligns with principles of animal welfare.

Moreover, this handbag provides an end-of-life recycling solution, contributing to a more sustainable lifecycle.

Crafted with an eco-conscious approach, it is designed by women and produced ethically using eco-friendly materials.

Picture by Seadbeady

My opinion on the clear handbag

As some of you know, I love to give you a head up about sustainable fashion, so this is a big plus if you ask me. 😍

Most of you know I am more the fall-type kind of chicken, but I wanted to point out to the spring chicks reading here that you might need this type of handbag to get into some festivals this summer. 😉

Another big plus, as I mentioned at the beginning of this blog post, is that you can spill heaps of food on it without having to throw it in the waste bin. 😃

However, there are some negatives about this clear handbag too. It is anything but safe from pickpockets, so you'd have to be very aware of this when you use it. 😞

The other problem is that you can't adjust the length of the large strap, but you can solve this by using the gold chain as a shoulder strap. 😊

Still, I think it looks pretty cool, and the size is good for festivals, events, or concerts. As you can see, it easily fits a small wallet, a cell phone, a pair of glasses, and some other minor items. 😍

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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Sunday, 12 February 2023

Interview With Fashion Stylist Kriena Nederveen

Hi There..... Are you curious about what goes on behind the scenes in the fashion industry? Perhaps my new fashion stylist interview could shed some light?


Picture provided by Kriena Nederveen

I often wonder what my life would look like if I would be in the fashion industry. You know, I just love fashion, and shopping, so a career as a fashion stylist sounds like a heavenly job. 😎

The fundamental question, however, would be how my clients would look when I am finished with them. 😏

Different for sure. I remember drawing girls and separate clothes as a kid, together with my younger sister. Then we would cut them out to fit the clothes on the girls. 😄

Imagine doing this for real. Except for the cutting-up part, of course. I wouldn’t want to trim too many edges. 😜

Perhaps it would be safer to leave it up to a genuine fashion stylist and ask her what the fashion industry is like. 😍

Picture provided by Kriena Nederveen

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

My name is Kriena Nederveen, and I own a business called CleD’Or, where I both function as a fashion stylist and personal shopper.
 

How old are you?

56

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

I work as a fashion stylist and personal shopper for my business.

What made you decide to become a Fashion Stylist?

I spent over 3 decades in the fashion industry in sales, marketing, and merchandising. As a result, I styled many celebrities, shows, and individuals. I decided to style full-time because I love it and it brings people a lot of ease and happiness. 

Is fashion important to you? Why? 

Yes. We eat with our eyes first. How people see you is the first thing they know about you. Fashion is art, a way to make an impression if you use it correctly. 

Picture provided by Kriena Nederveen

What are your successes and how did you achieve them?

I have successfully navigated the fashion industry for a long time. I worked with teams to bring outstanding collections to the US from Italy, to place amazing American brands in stores all over the world, and worked with some of the most amazing designers to do so. 

I have styled people who later achieved amazing things. 

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

I would love to style people who are truly making a difference in the world. 

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

Yes, and no. I love certain brands and use them a great deal. If a no-name brand gets the job done, then I use it. 

Describe your personal style of clothing?

I love a rocker chic style of dressing. Classics with a twist. Everything with just a little edge. 

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

It has grown over the years. I still love the correct white t-shirt and a great pair of jeans. When I am getting dressed up, I want to make a statement. I want people to remember. 

Picture provided by Kriena Nederveen

In what way do you influence other people’s clothing style?

In my job as a fashion stylist, I try to have my clients go at least 10-15% outside of their comfort zone. I want them to get comfortable wearing things they did not think they could. That's the way I try to lead them. 

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

The best trends at the moment are: 
High-waisted jeans and pants
Longer dresses and skirts
Faux Leather
Wide leg pants
Chunky loafers

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

See-through clothing
Logos
Sky high platforms

What kind of fashion advice would you give us?

As CoCo Chanel Said: “Before you walk out the door every day, take one thing off ”

Who is your style icon and why?

Bianca Jagger
She epitomizes Style, Grace, Class, and Edge all at the same time.  

Picture provided by Kriena Nederveen

Thank you, Kriena, for filling in my questions. It's so great that you also offer low-key fitting and style sessions.

Feel like reading some more? Here are a few of my previous fashion stylist interviews:

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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Sunday, 5 February 2023

Interview With Fashion Model Alissa Musto

Hi There..... Have you ever dreamed of becoming a fashion model? Do you think you’ve got what it takes to do modeling jobs?


Picture provided by Alissa Musto

I can’t say I never dreamed of it, but since I am only 1.65m and wasn’t the skinny type, I never pursued it. Doesn’t almost every young girl want to be admired by everyone? All just by looking pretty and glamorous? 😎

Now that I’ve grown up a little, I know it’s not all shimmer and shine. You need thick skin and lots of patience. 😊

Those modeling jobs can take long hours in uncomfortable working conditions. I’ve seen it in a few series where they look for the next best fashion models. 😳

They don’t just get to do what they like. They have to take directions from the photographer, or his crew, who can criticize them over their looks. 😩

Nah, that wouldn’t have been good for me. I was an incredibly shy girl with low self-esteem. 😢

Hard to believe, I know, but I swear on my mother's grave it’s true. Hmm, I wonder if I can say this since she got cremated. 😕

You know, I would have been a perfect fit if they would need a tomato impersonator. Red is still my favorite color. 😂

I suppose this next fashion model on my blog didn’t have problems with being shy. Or would she? Let’s find out what she answered to my questions. 😍

Picture provided by Alissa Musto

What is your name? How old are you?

My name is Alissa Musto and I am 27 years old

Are you on Social Media? How many followers do you have?

Yes! My Instagram is @AlissaMustoMusic and my Facebook page is www.Facebook.com/AlissaMusto
I am at about 10k followers on Instagram and 13k followers on Facebook, and I’m at the beginning stages of TikTok (better late than never!)

Do you work Full-time or Part-time as a Fashion Model?

Part-time! I am a full-time performer, and modeling jobs are only a part of what I do. I also sing, play music, and act.

What made you decide to become a Fashion Model?

I first got introduced to the world of modeling when I started competing in pageants at 20 years old. 

At the time, Miss America's competitors participated in both evening gown and swimsuit modeling portions of the competition. I was crowned Miss Massachusetts 2016 and went on to compete at Miss America, where I placed in the Top 15. 

Being Miss Massachusetts opened the door to several modeling opportunities: I participated in photoshoots, sponsorships with clothing brands and boutiques, and bridal and formalwear showcases.

Prior to this, I always assumed you had to be tall to be a professional model! I’m only 5’4 (1.63m). Pageants gave me an opportunity to get my foot in the door with modeling and even after my reign, it continued to be part of my career.

How many hours do you spend modeling?

It depends on the gig! Some modeling gigs can be an all-day affair, but usually, I’m on set for 4-5 hours for a shoot. When I was preparing for pageants, I would practice my walk for a couple of hours a day.

Picture provided by Alissa Musto

Is fashion important to you? Why?

I believe your clothes should be the least interesting thing about you, and the person wearing them should be what truly shines. However, I believe fashion is important because it gives individuals an opportunity to express themselves and their creativity. 

Having my own unique sense of style is something that has set me apart on stage, in pageants, and in my day-to-day personal life. It’s an opportunity for me to showcase who I am and make an impression.

What are your successes and how did you achieve them?

Aside from being crowned Miss Massachusetts, my biggest successes in the entertainment industry have been appearing in projects for household names like Delta, Marriott, Jerome Alexander Cosmetics, Home Shopping Network, and House of Wu, also my accomplishments in the music field. 

I'm a lifelong musician and have had the opportunity to perform around the world as a guest entertainer on luxury cruise ships, sing at major professional sporting events, appear on national television, and open for country artist, Maren Morris.

I believe I’ve been able to achieve these successes because I don’t let setbacks or being told “no” discourage me or phase me. I grew up in this industry and every success is preceded by dozens of rejections. 

It’s a tough pill to swallow initially and it can be emotionally draining. However, I’ve never looked at quitting as an option and I know if I don’t go out and pursue opportunities, they won’t fall in my lap.

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

I’m always open to new opportunities and experiences, so if something I’ve never done before was thrown my way, I’d probably be down to try it! 

I actually just started taking the first steps towards something that has secretly been on my bucket list; designing a clothing line! I have a few designs ready and am setting up my shop and preparing to fully launch in 2023.

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

A gig is a gig! The name of the brand is not important to me when I model unless I have moral/ethical objections to the brand, which in that case, I simply won’t apply for or accept the modeling job. 

I admire every designer because like myself, I consider them creators. It doesn’t matter if their creations are the most expensive or popular in the world; I just love being part of the process of someone’s vision materializing and becoming art. 

Working with bigger brands is always an exciting experience on set because I have an immense amount of respect for the designers and their entrepreneurship and success. However, the name of the brand does not solely determine whether I accept the gig or my experience on set.

Describe your personal style of clothing?

I actually buy most of my clothing from thrift and secondhand stores. I have an appreciation and love for vintage and retro clothing and also feel a responsibility to make sustainable and resourceful clothing choices in a world of fast fashion and ethically problematic production methods.

As a stage performer, I like a bit of drama in my wardrobe: bold prints, sequins, rhinestones, and interesting colors. Music is also a huge inspiration in how I dress, so my style definitely incorporates influence from rock n’ roll legends and pop icons.

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

I believe our personal styles are always growing and evolving. My signature look depends on what I’m doing! I think costumes are an important part of an overall concert experience, so if I’m performing, I like to be on stage in sequins, rhinestones, and unique pieces. 

If I’m in an interview or a more subdued setting, I like vintage dresses and bold accessories. However, on a typical day, I’m most likely black jeans and combat boots and one of my many eclectic jean jackets. I found my personal style through many of the musicians and performers I look up to.

Picture provided by Alissa Musto

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

I hope so! If I’m wearing something that I bought second-hand and someone compliments my outfit, I will always use it as an opportunity to tell them I bought it at a thrift shop to encourage sustainable and environmentally-friendly clothing choices.

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

I love that some of the best looks from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s have made a comeback. I’m personally a huge fan of flared pants, platform heels, windbreakers and bomber jackets, and high-waisted mom jeans.

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

Fast fashion.

What kind of fashion advice would you give us?

Invest in a few high-quality timeless pieces that you absolutely love and you’ll wear all the time, rather than filling your closet with junk you’ll wear once or even worse---will sit in your closet for months with the tags still on. It’s a waste of space, resources, and money.

Who is your style icon and why?

Elton John! I love the feathers, the sequins, the colors, the sunglasses, and the “wow” factor he always seems to have. Throughout his very long career, he has remained unapologetically himself and his style aligns with that mindset. His style is bold, but it works because it compliments his confidence and dynamic performances.

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

I think there are a lot of misconceptions about what a “model” is. I know professional, working models of every size, shape, race, height, and color. 

While everybody isn’t going to be the right fit for every project, there are modeling opportunities for everyone, especially as the entertainment industry becomes a more inclusive and toxic culture, and practices are increasingly getting called out. 

I’m glad I didn’t let my own insecurities about my height prevent me from ever pursuing modeling. I’m looking forward to it becoming an increasingly important component of my career and gaining the skills and experience to grow.

Picture provided by Alissa Musto

Thank you, Alissa, for answering my questions. I love your point of view on pageants in the blog post below that I found on your Facebook page. 😍

If you still have some time left, you could check out my previous fashion model interviews:

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

Renata (Seadbeady) 

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