FashionClub.com Daily

Interview With Interior Design Alumna Pamela Jewell

Name: Pamela Jewell

FIDM Grad Year: 2008

Campus: Los Angeles

Major: Interior Design

Tell us a little about yourself: I am a 24-year old fanciful yet sensible gal living in Los Angeles. I love to thrift shop, garden, refurbish furniture, paint, and when I can, which is rare, I enjoy doing nothing at all.

Where are you working now and what do you do? I am working as a freelance designer in both residential interior design and set design.

Describe a typical work day: Every day is different. On a perfect day I could spend an entire day in my shop redoing my latest thrift find. However, in reality, I generally spend the morning meeting with my client and contractor to approve plans and purchases, followed by sourcing selections and fabrics and visiting vendors—while being attached to my phone like it's an appendage.

 

Pamela Jewell residential project

What do you love about your job? I love the satisfaction of a happy client. Everyone desires the best but sometimes a budget does not really allow for getting everything you want. There is nothing better than finding exactly what your client had in mind at half the price!

What is your proudest accomplishment? As a graduate in 2008, I dove into a very difficult industry in a very difficult time. I have had great opportunities and have established a clientele with little previous experience. In the past two years I have been able to work on international, high-end residential projects, completed a full residential project as Principal, styled/built sets for many photo shoots, was an Art Director for two sets for TV shows, started my own company, and still managed to have a social life!

 

Before

 

After - Set Design by Pamela Jewell

Who is your style icon and why? In furniture design I am enthralled by the sleek and organic flow of Ralph Pucci. 

 

Ralph Pucci chair

A few of my favorite interior designers and architects are Frank Gehry, Jacques Grange, Kelly Wearstler, Ruthie Sommers, Eileen Gray, and nearly every mid-century designer.

 

Jacques Grange living room design

 

Ruthie Sommers living room design

Philippe Starck is someone who I have aspired to be like. He has such a great eye for every facet of design from beautiful interiors to creating everyday housewares into works of art.

 

Philippe Starck product design (citrus juicer)

What's your dream fashion purchase? Well, see as every time I come across a conflict between the vintage dress or occasional chair, the dress loses. My dream purchase would be anything Ralph Pucci or an original Stilnovo chandelier.

 

Stilnovo chandelier

How did you know FIDM was the right college for you? To be surrounded by so many creative and motivated people is perfect for anyone. I was skeptical at first because it was not a four-year but within the first year, I was sure that I had made the right choice. Not only are the people and instructors amazing, living and observing Los Angeles is an entire experience in itself.

How did you decide on your major? No question about that one. I spent many days/nights rearranging my furniture, painting my room, and organizing my knickknacks as a kid. It seemed only natural...

What was specific to your major that set it apart from the other majors at FIDM? The Interior Design Major wasn't as large as many of the majors at FIDM when I started. I was really excited to see it grow by the time I graduated. Our major was similar in concept as the others but the application of the design process is quite different. Interior design, in most cases, is more permanent than fashion.

What was your favorite class at FIDM and why? Principals of Design really taught me a lot about how I approached design which was really interesting. If I had to name one favorite I would have to say Residential Thesis with Bill Merryfield. I have always had a modern minimalist aesthetic but Mr. Merryfield suggested we design a very traditional, high-end, and detailed project. This course helped me learn and do things I didn't know I was capable of.

How do you feel FIDM prepared you for what you're doing now? I wouldn't be in the industry at all if it wasn't for FIDM. I always had an eye for design but FIDM trained me to fine-tune it and apply it.

 

Pamela Jewell residential project

Any advice for current FIDM Students? Stick in there and don't give up! It's hard but it will all seem like a breeze once you're out in the field. Also, take as many extra classes as you can and take the extra mile to do internships throughout the program.

What is your biggest dream right now? I would love to be able to open a shop for my refinished vintage furniture and custom lighting line. I would love to do a set for a feature film as well—someday!

 

Before

 

After - Refinished Vintage Piece by Pamela Jewell

If you could ask a question of anyone in art/design history, who would you ask? I am not sure what I would ask but I would love to sit and have a nice long chat with Dorothy Draper, Eileen Gray, Barbara Bestor, and Zaha Hadid.

 

Check out Pamela Jewell's latest set designs on the FashionClub.com Prom photo shoots: 1920s, 1940s, and 1950s! Soon to come...the 1970s!

Interview With Visual Communications Alumna Christy Maguire

Visual Communications Alumna Christy Maguire is managing the in-house PR and Marketing efforts for fashion designer Lauren Moshi—which largely involves being a social networking guru. She loves the brand and is proud to help grow something she believes in.

FIDM Grad Year: 2009

Campus: Los Angeles

Age: 22

Tell us a little about yourself: I grew up in Seattle and graduated high school there. I went straight to college at Chapman University in Orange County majoring in International Business. I began working for a designer in L.A. producing her fashion shows and being her brand representative during the summer. It was then that I realized I wanted a future in fashion, so I moved up to L.A. and started at FIDM. I used to visit the Career Center often and take any volunteer opportunity I could get. I worked at L.A. Fashion Week, Vanity Fair events, Burberry, Teen Vogue, and others. I then decided I wanted an internship, so my counselor, Cindy Patino, sent me some opportunities. I was an Entertainment Marketing intern at Richemont (luxury group of companies such as Chloe, Van Cleef & Arpels, and others) for eight months. It was really a great experience—I learned a lot and had so much fun. I'm glad I did it. It definitely made my transition to working after graduation easier.

Where are you working now? I work for the designer Lauren Moshi. I do her in-house PR. That entails handling all of her social media, and tracking and creating as much press as possible. And I also do her website.

Describe a typical work day: Get to the office around 9am, sit at my desk, turn on my computer, check my work email. Then I'll pull up the Lauren Moshi website, Twitter, Facebook, and blog. A lot of our sales are generated by celebrities wearing her clothes, so making sure they get to the right people and finding those new images are daily tasks. Next I'll pull up Photoshop and create mock blogs where I play around with images and press. I probably do about five of those per day and we'll have weekly meetings where they tell me what they like or don't like, and we come up with new ideas. Once I have a final draft on Photoshop, I'll upload it to the blog. Right now I'm working on updating our website with current collections. Every once in a while she'll send me out to pull fabric samples, or we'll have a photo shoot for a new collection; but other than that, I'm at the desk most all day.

What do you love about your job? My office—it's so nice! They gave me a big desk and I have a huge MAC computer to work on. Job-wise though, I really love working for Lauren and Michael Moshi—they give me so much creative freedom. I also love the brand, so I'm happy to be helping grow something I believe in.

What is you proudest accomplishment? I'd say graduating college and landing a job I'm happy and secure with. I'm exactly where I hoped I would be at this time in my life.

Who is your style icon and why? That's such a tough question. She would be a combination of Victoria Beckham, Sienna Miller, and Carrie from Sex & The City.

What's your dream fashion purchase? Right now I want the Black YSL Pumps with the blue sole. The entire Spring 2010 Versace collection would be nice too.

 

How did you know FIDM was the right college for you? I knew what I wanted out of an education, what classes I needed to take, and what I wanted to learn. I knew FIDM would provide me that as well as connections afterwards. The first college I went to wasn't creative at all and location-wise I knew I wanted to be in L.A.

How did you decide on your major? I had taken Business before and I wanted something creative. I loved fashion show production and styling, so that's originally why I chose VCOMM.

What is specific to Visual Communications that sets it apart from the other majors at FIDM? It takes a certain type of creativity. I think you need to be confident and risk-taking. It's about production and presentation, not necessarily design or number-crunching. I like it because it ties so many things together; it's a very broad major.

What was your favorite class at FIDM and why? Any of the Digital Imaging classes. I could sit on Photoshop and Illustrator all day!

Any advice for current FIDM Students? Go to the Career Center! Even if it means stalking your Career Counselor—they're busy but it will pay off to utilize them.

What is your biggest dream right now? Just to be happy, to never be bored, and to love what I'm doing every day. I want to move up in my career and continue to feel successful.

If you could ask anyone in fashion history a question, who would it be? Edie Sedgwick. She was a style icon. I love fashion of that era. I'd just make her tell me stories about Andy Warhol and The Factory.

 

Interview with FIDM Grad Michael Abe of Issue Collection

Michael Abe and Business Partner Jon Rhinerson in WWD

Name: Michael Abe

Hometown: Pasadena/ Los Angeles CA

FIDM Major: A.A. Apparel Manufacturing/ B.S. in Business Management

FIDM Grad Date: Mar 03/ Oct 08

Company Name: Atlas Collective/ Issue Collection

Title: Creative Director

URL: Issue Collection

Describe a typical day? Wake up, Meditate, Read the Trades (WWD, blogs, ect.), Start emailing. Check in with Contractors, Runaround factories, Conf calls in the Afternoon, Check in with consulting clients/ projects, more emails. go home relax for a bit, maybe do some emails and design concepts or other catch up work. 

Who is your typical customer? Strong modern women. Someone who is starting to take risks with her wardrobe but not looking too over the top. Wears a fair amount of black or mostly neutral colors.

From the Issue Collection Lookbook

Where can your line be purchased? Eva in NY, Dish in SF, Isetan in Japan

What is one of your proudest accomplishments? Doing what I do and making a living.

What was your first job after graduation? Assistant to the Owner of Private Label co.

What did you learn at FIDM that still helps you today? To not dismiss any aspect of the industry and learn as many elements as i can. Whether it be pattern making, design conceptualizing or cost analysis.

What did you like most about attending FIDM? The teachers are very supportive of the students' ideas.

Anything else you'd like to add? Disclaimer- Overnight successes are hardly realistic, there's always a real story and history to a new brand's success. Coming out of FIDM I felt like I knew everything, today I feel like I'm still trying to learn as much as possible.

Monique Lhuillier at NY Fashion Week

We loved the Far East inspiration present in pieces from FIDM Grad Monique Lhuillier's collection, and, as usual her evening gowns that took our breath away.  See the show in its entirety below.  --Angel

  

Interview With Footwear Design Alumna Kim Dingman

Name: Kim Dingman

FIDM Grad Year: 2006

Major: Footwear Design

Campus: Los Angeles

The last time FIDM caught up with you, Lynn Collins wore your footwear line to the premiere of Wolverine. Catch us up with what's been happening with Jen + Kim. We were just featured in Footwear News last week. They did a designer profile on Jen + Kim Shoes as we recently launched a customizable bridal collection. We've been pushing the line and have attended the upscale Wedding Salon Show in Los Angeles which has opened up numerous doors for connecting within the bridal community. Our newest ventures are in the world of blogging: http://yourglassslippers.com.

What inspires you in your designs? It depends. Sometimes I find a great material and a whole collection spins around it. For my Spring/Summer '11 Collection I gained access to a trend forecasting site. One of the trends was something that I really "got" and as I started going through my collection of swatches and hardware, it all made sense. I had been subconsciously collecting all of these things and I just needed something in life to show me how they all fit together. That's why it's important to have a very open mind while designing. You never know when the swatch that has been sitting on your desk for 4 months will all of a sudden be useful.

Here are some recent Jen + Kim styles:

 

Tell us about your design consulting business. Since I come from a start-up background it kind of came naturally to me to offer my help with others who want to break into the industry. I currently have two clients—a handbag line and a new shoe concept. They need a line designed; they need to know where to source materials and where to manufacture; and they need to know how much it will all cost. I try to keep my small businesses producing in the U.S. so they don't need big factory minimums and can sample quickly. Little manufacturing gems are what keep me in business as not a lot of people know where to find them.

What are the hottest trends for spring and summer this year? Nudes. I think they are so hot because they are an extension of the leg. No color to break up the lines so you get the "Barbie-esque" look. And any snake and reptile is also super trendy right now. I think the look of natural and glamorous is one that is recession-proof since you could easily wear a nude pair of python pumps with jeans or an LBD.

Who's your favorite designer and why? Marchesa (silhouettes and material usage) and Roberto Cavalli (splashy prints and sexy shapes) for dresses. Giuseppe Zanotti for shoes simply because he does not compromise his style. I love when he unveils an entire collection of 4" and higher heels. I'm sure a million people have asked him to make lower heels but he always showcases his steller stilettos because it's his style. Plus, I met him once in Italy and he is a super nice guy.

What's your favorite fashion websites? Polyvore is great. I love Gucci.com for the layout and the way they showcase accessories. I just found ustrendy.com which is pretty cool too. Luckytoes.com is fun. And when a client is paying for trend forecasting services, I'm all over: Stylesight, Mudpie, and WGSN.

How did you know FIDM was the right college for you? The Footwear Design Program is one of a kind. No other American university offers the same intensive curriculum as FIDM's. Plus, I come from NY and had suffered through one too many winters.

How did you decide on your major? I went to school in NY at a state school first and then to F.I.T. and received my Bachelor's in Merchandising and Management. While I was in school I was fortunate enough to intern at both Harper's Bazaar and then Ralph Lauren. What I learned from both of these experiences was that I wanted to be more creatively involved in whatever it was that I did. At that exact same time Jen [my business partner] had an idea for a shoe line. We started working together and I knew that I needed more experience. That's when I found FIDM.

What was your favorite class at FIDM? Footwear Illustration with Nancy Riegelman. I think it's very important to have an artistic foundation in order to bring new and interesting shoes to the market. If you just keep pumping out what the shoe dogs tell you will sell, you'll never be able to break new ground.

How do you feel FIDM prepared you for what you're doing now? Without a doubt, it gave me the confidence to interview. I had more knowledge than most of the other applicants for entry level positions because only a handful of people are trained so intensively each year.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about going to FIDM? Start drawing now. And don't stop. Because if you have a library of designs, you are never empty handed when the time comes and you need inspiration.

Liz Fields: Behind the Scenes of a Fashion Photoshoot

Here's a peek into the world and work of FIDM Grad Liz Fields, a bridal and special occasion gown designer.

Read more about Liz Fields and find out how to contact her at Prom Advice.  --Angel

New Interview With Fashion Design Alumna Giovanna Huaycochea

Fashion Design Alumna Giovanna Huaycochea is a freelance fashion designer and illustrator who recently launched her own business. She also finds time to write the Boho Market blog, which focuses on things that inspire her, her work, and fashion trends.

FIDM Grad Year: 2009

Campus: Los Angeles

Job Title: Freelance Fashion Designer and Illustrator

Tell us a little about yourself: I was born in Perú and have had a passion for fashion since I was a little girl. I remember designing outfits for my dolls when I was seven years old. I love the creative process of designing because it allows me express myself in an artistic way. I'm a free spirited girl, gypsy bohemian at heart and a dreamer. I love fabrics!! I can spend hours in a fabric store, I love getting inspired by the different textiles and textures. I appreciate art and photography, enjoy music, films, and I can't live without chocolate, coffee, and cozy places.

Describe a typical work day: I have a big table full of different things that inspire me such as fabric swatches, trims, photos, different images, magazines, books, and all my materials. I try to keep close to me anything that I find interesting and eye catching! Those things help me to start developing my own ideas. Then, I start sketching until I end up with something that I really love! I'm a perfectionist so I keep pushing until I feel completely happy with my design. I also love to create a nice environment when I'm working with pleasant music, my cup of tea or coffee, and maybe a piece of chocolate.

What inspires you? I get very inspired by people who pursue their dreams. In terms of fashion, I find inspiration in many things such as art, photography, fabrics, flea markets, nature, vintage, films, etc. Inspiration can be everywhere.

What is your proudest accomplishment?  That I followed my heart and came to the U.S. to study what I love and never gave up no matter what.  

What are some projects you've worked on? As a freelance designer, I'm involved in different projects, and I especially love to work on commissioned illustrations, designs, and artistic things. I recently finished some illustrations and designs for fellow fashion bloggers, which I'll be posting on my blog for everyone to see.

What is a skill that is most valuable when owning/launching your own freelance business? I think it's very important to know your strengths and make the most of them. I also think organization and commitment are essential when owning your freelance business. I pay a lot of attention to details and customer service is very important to me. I treat my clients the way I like to be treated.

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you? I did my research before coming to California and visited different schools. It's hard to explain, but the first time I went to FIDM, I knew it was perfect for me. Every detail at FIDM is impeccable, from the lovely Advisor who helped me, to the environment.  

What was your favorite class at FIDM? All the Creative Design series and draping. I love the artistic part of this career and I was lucky enough to have the best instructors on those classes. They were an inspiration for me!

How has what you learned at FIDM helped you in your career? FIDM opens your eyes to new things and new opportunities, and you see things from the fashion designer's perspective. You get involved in the process of designing and that makes you understand how the fashion industry works much better.

Any advice for current FIDM Students? I absolutely believe in following your dreams and taking the opportunities that life offers you. Keep pushing and never give up on your dreams even in difficult times. Difficult times should always make you stronger and if you really love what you do, you're going to see that difficulties are just part of the journey, and at the end of the day the satisfaction of doing what you love is the best feeling. Take advantage of all the great things the school offers and most of all enjoy every single day at school.

Style Scoop Interview: Adrianna Kinal

Name: Adrianna Kinal

Grad Year: 2003

Major: Fashion Design

Campus: Los Angeles

How did you find out about FIDM and what went into your decision to go here? 

My art teacher had let me know about FIDM, so when I looked into the program I was really excited about every single class offered and taught by fashion professionals. Then, there was the fact that this was a "fashion" school as opposed to a university that offers fashion classes. Also, with the campus being in the heart of the garment district in sunny California, far away from home in Canada, definitely made it the final choice for me.

How did you decide on your major?

I decided that I wanted to be a fashion designer while I was in high school and FIDM offered that major so I went for it.

What types of things did you learn that has prepared you for your career?

Every class I took has prepared me for my career in one way or another. For example, even though I don't make patterns, understanding if a pattern is made correctly is essential. Everything comes down to production, when I'm trying to find out why a garment is not fitting correctly, it's important that even though I'm not physically doing the work, I'm able to detect the mistake.

What was your favorite thing about going to FIDM?

Other students who had boundless creative energy like me and the tremendous resources and knowledgeable people at the library — they really are amazing.

You are a fashion designer, illustrator, and artist. Tell me more about these aspects of your life. How do they all relate to each other and your jewelry line?

As a fashion designer working in the garment industry, it's given me the experience in taking a design to a finished product to selling that product. It's very similar to how I structure my jewelry business. I have always been an illustrator and artist in one form or another, constantly changing the medium and refining my style. Currently I choose jewelry to be my medium by fusing my design skills together with my experience.

What is the name of your jewelry line?

AA Kinal. It stands for my name, Adrianna Aleksandra Kinal.

Describe your line.

The pieces have a lot of character. The aesthetic is bold and sophisticated with a tough edge. It's made out of an array of semi-precious stones like onyx and agate combined with metal beads, spikes and steel chains.

Who would you love to see your jewelry on?

I like to see it on women who are confident, fashion-forward, and fearlessly living life without apologies.

What inspires your creativity?

I hunt through a multitude of visual and auditory sources that convey a certain attitude—of strength, rebellion, and individualism, and I formulate it into my jewelry that is relevant for the woman of today.

What is your must-have accessory right now?

Chunky earrings, '80s style.

What advice would you give someone who is thinking about going to FIDM?

I would speak to industry professionals about the pros and cons and see if you can get a glimpse into their everyday work routine to see if that's ultimately what you want to study and make a career out of. Also, always keep in touch with peers, mentors, and teachers.

What is the next big trend in jewelry?

Jewelry everywhere—on your shoes, your bag, on your pet!

What is your biggest dream right now?

It would be very cool to carry on having the means and freedom to design jewelry that is accepted and respected. To leave my mark in this world through something I've created or that makes another person inspired, happy or somehow betters this world would be my ultimate dream.

Alice in Wonderland and OPI

Check out these fantastic new nail polishes from OPI!  They're inspired by Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland, due in theaters this March.  With names like Mad as a Hatter and Off With Her Red, these colors are as charming and whimsical as the film is sure to be!  --Angel

Read about FIDM Grad Michelle Liu, a Key Costume Designer for Alice in Wonderland!

 

Interview with FIDM Beauty Program Grad Working for Smashbox

Name: Jenna Daunais

Major: Beauty Industry Merchandising & Marketing

Job Title: Associate Manager-Retail Administration, Smashbox Cosmetics

Tell us a little about yourself: I grew up in Lowell, Massachusetts. In 6th grade, I got a paper route so I could buy fashion magazines (I had to sneak them in my house because my Mom thought you had to be 17 to read Seventeen).

Were you always into beauty? I was obsessed with beauty advertising and used to recreate Cover Girl ads using a camera my parents gave me and my friends as models. My interests stayed with me and when I was 19, I moved to LA to attend FIDM to pursue a corporate career in cosmetics.

That's Jenna playing with makeup at age 4!

What do you love about your job at Smashbox Cosmetics? The company culture. Smashbox is a unique company because it has a creative and organizational culture. In apparel, cosmetics, and fashion, this is rare and hard to come by. I think ultimately this combo fosters the innovation in our products, which of course I love as well.

What is a typical day like? No such thing! On my favorite days I attend idea labs, coordinate national sales meetings, coordinate company outings and parties, create analytical reports, attend LA Fashion Week, appear on Good Day LA, and create reports. I enjoy every aspect of it. 

What is an accomplishment you are most proud of:  Not knowing a single person in Los Angeles and creating a life here for myself that I enjoy.

What inspires you? My mom, Kelly Wearstler, Flower Market in Downtown LA, The Selby, entrepreneurial couples, and people who are passionate/happy at work.

How and why did you choose your major? FIDM offered a specialized major specifically for working in the beauty industry. I was also intrigued by Visual Communications, Footwear Design, and Interior Design.

What did you expect to gain from attending FIDM? Connections.

What was your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM?  Creative Director for a cosmetics company.

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? Live in Downtown Los Angeles while attending FIDM because it is a mecca for all things wonderful:  libraries, food, interesting people, garment, trim, and jewelry district, nightlife, and the architecture is insanely gorgeous. 

Favorite designer: Vena Cava and I blame Blake Lively for my obsession. She is always wearing their stuff. Their clothes are soft as butter and the textures are amazing!

Cosmetic product you cannot live without: Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Light

Dream purchase: Prada flower heels or anything vintage Anna Sui.