Interview with Sarah Radford of Chicago's own Chic Gems

Chic Gems has been a brand I've encountered frequently across the Chicago fashion scene. From trunk shows to fashion shows, I've often found Sarah Radford showcasing her amazingly well made and fashion forward fashion accessories. She's definitely left her mark on the city and as a local Chicago fashionista she definitely deserves some love! I've often marveled at her chic gems and it's only recently I have had the chance to get her to answer some questions for the CFTE column!

Not only is Sarah a kind soul, she's passionate about what she does, incredibly talented and an inspiration to boot! Chic gems started as just a hobby in 2002, but when a corporate shake up changed Sarah's life in 2006, she took it as an opportunity to venture out on her own. It's definitely been worth it. It just goes to show that when one door closes, another door opens and it is up to us fashionistas to make our own choices and create our own destiny!

Chic Gems has the tag line that it is designer jewelry for the professional woman. This is a great addition to the Chicago fashion scene as a majority of the fashionistas in the area are professional women from 9-5. The pieces are great completer items that truly add a pop of fun to any look without feeling like costume jewelry. The jewelry is a great way to add some glam to a simple look or to pull together a look for a night out on the town. If you like what you hear and want to learn more about Sarah and Chic Gems be sure to read the CFTE interview with the designer below:

1. Can you tell us a bit about the line (or site) and who the person is that you create for?

I founded Chic Gems Couture Jewelry in 2002 as a side project while working as a sales representative. I have been a fashionista all my life.

I design affordable fashion jewelry for professional women, brides, and bridesmaids. My site offers a variety of pieces to choose from, many of which are easily customizable with the simple click of your mouse.

Price point ranges from $18-$150

2. What made you divulge your creative energies into launching a business? Had your past experience helped you to undertake running a business?

I have always wanted to be a business owner. I have always been a leader in each career that I have had, so it came naturally to want to run my own business and take ownership for my life's path. I have a background in retail sales and management for fashion companies such as Express, BCBG Max Azria, and Judith Ripka jewelry, so running Chic Gems has used all of those skills.

3. Can you tell us about the inspiration for this season's line?

This fall's collection is inspired by nature and Old Hollywood Glamour. We have incorporated Swarovski Crystal Moon Pendants, several dainty chain and charm pieces, and bold semi-precious stone pieces.

4. Can you share with our readers a little bit about how and where you find inspiration and what your creation process is like?

I enjoy keeping up with Hollywood fashion trends, Runway, and Pop Culture. My pieces always have a feminine edge mixed with everyday chic. I start by envisioning a design, sketching it, and selecting the materials to make it, and then completing the piece. I love nature, so you will see flower or leaf toggles on most of the necklaces and bracelets.

5. Can you give our readers the top 3 key items from the line that you think they should all have in their closet?

Top 3: Glamour Pearl Necklace Couture Quartz Earrings Lock and Key Necklace

6. What do you feel are the top 4 trends for the season that the people who read this column can and should experiment with?

Texture-Choose from python to chain, texture adds an element of excitement Color-Vibrant and Bold-Choose a bright necklace or handbag to add the finishing touch to your look Leopard print shoes-a must have trend this fall Neutrals-mixing neutrals is always chic

7. What are some key color trends you see for the upcoming season and what are the key color trends you are using in your line?

Vibrant colors-I always enjoy using color in my line. When you are wearing basic blacks, greys, and browns, what could be better than adding a pop of color with the perfect necklace Animal prints are on trend for fall 2010, Chic Gems neutral pieces are a great accent to that leopard print top

8. Who are your top 3 inspirational fashion designers? What draws you to them?

Coco Chanel-classic elegance that is timeless Nanette Lepore-feminine and flirty Louis Vuitton-timeless chic

9. Do you have any tips for the people out there who are interested in pursuing a career in the fashion industry?

If you are still in school, get an internship or apprenticeship with a designer in the fashion industry to learn more first hand. Talk to people in the industry and learn what they think it takes to be successful. Read your fashion magazines-my favorites are: InStyle, Lucky, and Vogue.

10. Where can we learn more about you and your line/e-retailer?

Visit my website at www.ChicGemsCouture.com or call me at 888.801.8265

ABOUT SARAH:

Sarah Radford has quickly created a following of fashionistas nationwide by the name of Chic Gems. The tagline for the stylish company is “designer jewelry for professional women,” and the woman behind the chic and affordable line of jewelry knows exactly what professional women today want. Sarah has spent many years in sales and management for companies such as Express, BCBG Max Azria, and Judith Ripka Jewelry. Sarah grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. After graduating from Wittenberg University, her professional life brought her to Chicago where she fell in love with the City. Sarah founded Chic Gems, etc. as a side-project in 2002. But when a corporate shake-up rattled her professional path in 2006, Sarah realized it was the perfect opportunity to turn her passionate hobby into a lifestyle and to take life into her own hands! Sarah's lifelong interest in fashion began early.

From modeling her newest dress in pre-school to designing her own string bracelets as a young girl, interest has finally blossomed into the development of her own brand in Chic Gems, etc. Sarah is inspired by Old Hollywood Glamour including icons such as Audrey Hepburn and Coco Chanel. Sarah’s love for nature is obvious in her use of flower and leaf toggles for most of her pieces. She mixes classic and modern designs to create a new exciting twist for the woman who loves to be fashionable without being overly trendy. Stylish, sophisticated, and affordable, these gems are perfect for everyday wear and will instantly transform any wardrobe.

Sarah’s goal is for each woman who wears a piece from her collection to instantly feel glamorous and confident. Sarah has always designed her collections from materials that excite her such as quartzes, semi-precious stones, pearls, glass, and crystals. Her line incorporates bright colors, neutrals, and silver or gold accents with clean lines and a sleek sense of style. Featured in many stores and counting, Chic Gems, etc. also supports a number of charities by hosting and supporting benefit events. Sarah supports: The Brain Aneurysm Foundation, My Hope Chest, The Red Pump Project, The Aparecio Foundation, PAVE, CASE, among others - often by creating custom pieces for charities to sell to raise money.

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JLee Silver gives the Fashion Files an insider view on the latest trends for 2010

One of Chicago's own JLee Silver took a moment out of their busy fashion lives to answer a few interview questions for the fashion trend followers that read this column. JLee Silver is one of the hottest brands around and is taking fashion to the next level. Due to their impeccable taste, it is only fitting that they be the kind of designers that regular fashion diva's look to for trend forecasts! The JLee Silver line can be found at the brands online run boutique, Fashion Heist is an online shopping boutique designed with every woman in mind. Carrying all of the essential pieces women need in their wardrobe, fashionheist.com is a one-stop-shop to fill your closet with the must have trends of the season. It's a great homegrown line that can be found at many a local Chicago store, to find out more and learn about JLee Silver, read on for the one on one with JLee Silver!

1.Can you please tell us your name, company name and the type of design you do and people you design for, also what made your pursue fashion?

Designer: Jenna Lee Fowler
Company/Brand: JLee Silver
Target Consumer: Professional Urban Woman
Why Fashion? I have always wanted to be in the fashion industry. I knew I loved fashion and clothing when I was 5. My favorite shirt said "fashion victim" across the back.

2. What kind of design aesthetic do you keep in mind when designing for your line?

I like clothes that are functional and can be worn for multiple occasions, pieces that can take you from the office to dinner with your girlfriends by removing a jacket and adding some jewelry. We do not focus on trends, but rather on lifestyle appeal, comfort, and functionality - clothes that you can transition from season to season.

3. Can you name 3 key fashion trends that our readers should keep in mind when getting ready for Spring Summer 2010?

1. Boho chic, especially tie dye
2. Cropped jackets
3. Shift Dress with pockets (functionality is key!)

4. Can you name 3 key color or pattern trends that our readers should
keep in mind when prepping their wardrobe for Spring Summer 2010?

1. Watercolor prints
2. Pastel colors
3. Gray, white and navy as your summer neutrals

5. Can you give our readers some key tips creating new looks with their every day wardrobes?

White jeans! Everyone must find a flattering pair of white denim to match existing pieces in their closet. Just make sure they’re sturdy and not at all see through. For the final touch, throw on your favorite blouse and strappy sandals, and you are ready for a warm summer evening!

Another great way to transform your look is with a great layered chain necklace. It can jazz up any outfit.

Additionally, a stylish blazer or jacket you can throw over a tank or dress is a must-have as you can transition from season to season. This should be an investment piece!

6. Can you give our readers some key tips they could use when organizing their wardrobes/closets?

I think it’s best to organize by style then color - pants, skirts, dresses, jackets etc. This helps you see what key pieces are missing and what pieces you have too many of. Most women have too many pairs of black pants. Figure out what you have that works, what you have that isn’t working for you, and what you need. Keep this list with you so when you're shopping you are buying with a purpose.

7. Where do you find inspiration for your designs and outfits(websites, magazines, books etc.)

I find inspiration all around me. I'm especially inspired by the young girls in my showroom. They put things together I would never think of, they are so adventurous! Sometimes, I try to improve on some of my favorite pieces. Not too long ago, I added pockets to my favorite dress. Another thing I love to do is figuring how I can translate runway to reality.

8. What are your top 3 designers and what draws you to them?

1. Alexander Wang - he is so innovative in how he uses fabric. For instance, he will use gray jersey for a cocktail dress. He is so innovative and thoughtful.
2. Chanel - Karl Lagerfeld has done a great job of keeping this classic brand fresh and relevant with today's fashionistas.
3. Theory - for their wardrobe staples and classic pieces.

9. Do you have any tips that you could provide our readers who may be interested in starting their own line or pursuing a career in fashion?

http://www.fashionheist.com.
Just do it. This is really a ‘learn as you go’ business. Definitely find a great sales team; you can make a beautiful dress but if you can't sell it you won't be able to make another beautiful dress. Anyone interested in fashion should definitely network within the fashion community - photographers, models, boutique owners, they’re all relevant!

10. Where can our readers learn more about your line and are there any Chicago stores that they can find you in? Website to visit??

We have a showroom/design studio one block north of the apparel mart.
225 W. Hubbard Street 6th Floor. There are several boutiques who currently carry our collection including: Hunny Boutique, Le Dress, Handle With Care.

You can also buy JLee Silver online at www.fashionheist.com.

Be sure to keep up to date with the Chicago Fashion Trends Examiner by becoming our fan on Facebook!

Holiday Gift Guide-classic fashion trends

This one is for the Classic Fashionistas..

Gentlemen, if your wife has the classic sensibilites of a socially elite New Yorker, Downtown Chicagoan or loves black and white, she is what we dub the classic fashionistas. She loves all things Chanel, all things timeless and seems to always look put together.

The classic pieces showcased here last well into the future and are timelessly chic. They are relevant for years to come and will always be fashion foward because they have staying power. When it comes to the classic looks, you can brighten them up by adding sparkle and glam to them with great accessories. Nuetrals mixed with black and white are always a great combination.

Incorporate a complete look from head to toe, with accessories and a personal scent for a great put together look. This season, layering items such as a black tee, grey cardigan and cream and black chanel style tweed sweater with chic leather tights and "haute" pumpa like the recent additions to the Stella McCartney line!

Check 'em out below!

Fall Fashion Is Underway

Hello fellow readers!

Sorry it has been a while since I have made a post. It has been quite a busy few months for me in terms of work! I have been interning for a few magazines as well as working full time so I have not had a lot of time to research good stuff for you here on blogger, Although I am still putting up weekly trend reports via my fashion column in the Chicago Examiner! Check them out here!

In honor of the season premier of Mad Men, I have posted some great old school vintage fashion illustrations that showcase and highlight the chic 60's style that the show has become infamous for! You can find more at fashion-era.com! Make sure to check out my recent examiner article for a vintage how to!

As you all can already tell, Summer's end is fast approaching! Soon the chilly fall air will hit Chicago and with that comes Chicago Fashion Focus and NY Fashion Week! Needless to say, Fall is my FAVE season! I just love the chilly weather and the great transition in my wardrobe!! I will be utilizing the blog to showcase top trends over the course of the year as well as pointing you to some of my personal vintage recreations and personal designs.

I will also be steering the blog into more of a professional direction in terms of showcasing my trend researching ability, my styling ability and will use it as a tool to reach out to people who have fashion questions and need direction!

So please start sending questions and requests! I will be more than happy to showcase a question and answer it with great visuals and step by step direction! I also just created my website with my portfolio for your view! check it out here!

Adios!

Jen

Burda Style

For the love of the Fashion Gods! I think I've stumbled upon fashion design nirvana and it is called: Burdastyle.com! It's like a myspace and limewire for fashion designers! It is a great tool for young aspiring designers to share and download free patterns and get free tutorials on sewing as well as a forum to ask fashion design and sewing related questions!

It is manned by a team of professionals with backgrounds in computer science, fashion design, sewing and patternmaking! I have found it quite blissfully helpful and I would reccomend it to all my fashion friends and professionals! Take some time and check it out: http://www.burdastyle.com/!

Happy Sewing Lovelies!