Q&A with Designer Rachel Leigh
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Below find our exclusive Q&A with designer Rachel Leigh, and shop her Fall 2009 Collections here at Rilee and Lo!
Lo: Happy 5 year anniversary! You’ve come a long way in the past 5 years, what do you think has been your biggest accomplishment?
Every year brings new challenges and accomplishments but I would say our biggest accomplishment as of recently was being recognized by Oprah’s O List! It is such a tremendous honor and opportunity.
Rilee: What's been the most rewarding part?
The most rewarding part of growing our business has been ….
Lo: What inspired your latest collection?
I am always inspired by what my friends and I want to wear. It all goes back to styling. Whether it’s the central part of your look or a finishing touch – jewelry should complement your clothing. There is a fine line between perfection and just so so and it all comes down to the perfect combination of the colors, materials and proportions.
Rilee: Do you have a favorite time to sketch, favorite drink to pair with sketching, favorite sketch pad or item to be wearing?
Inspiration comes to me at the most random times – in the middle of a yoga class, during a run or when I’m falling asleep. Most of my inspiration sketches are done on random scraps of paper and then have to be re-done so that my production team can bring them to life.
Lo: Do you have a favorite piece or style in the collection? We loved the addition of the fringe pieces- Rilee made sure we pulled those.
My favorite new piece in the collection is the Gunmetal Crystal Fringe necklace. It’s the perfect combination of girlie sparkle and edgy layering. I usually wear it with a white t-shirt which always completes my look. Keep your eye out for the bracelet version for holiday!
Rilee: We noticed you came from YSL handling publicity, do you think having a background in marketing/PR has helped you become more successful as a designer?
Absolutely. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the endless support from all of my friends that are editors.
Lo: Do you have any advice for up-and-coming jewelry designers about the industry?
It is critical to be hyper-conscious of your customers. What do they wear, where do they go out, what do they read, what music do they listen do, where do they shop, what inspires them?
Rilee: Now for the fun questions, Blackberry or iPhone?
Blackberry. I have iPhone envy – I wish I had the white one – but the blackberry is more realistic for all of the emails that I send daily.
Lo: Tutu or motorcycle jacket?
A motorcycle jacket with ruffles is ideal. I have this amazing camel Philip Lim version that I am obsessed with. I wear it everywhere.
Rilee: Cold shower or hot?
Hot. Always with Bumble and Bumble products.
Lo: If you could have a cocktail with anyone, who would it be and why?
Each time I have the opportunity to have drinks with a fellow entrepreneur – whether it is someone well known or someone just starting out – I am challenged and inspired.
Rilee: Are there any specific metals, styles or concepts you're feeling for fall/winter?
I’m really into the combination of bright colors with crystal and gunmetal - very rock and roll with a girlie twist.
Lo: What's in the future for Rachel Leigh?
We are collaborating right now with Emmy Rossum on a very special pendant necklace that will launch in October for Breast Cancer Awareness month. Emmy and I designed the piece together and it is a labor of love. A portion of the profits will benefit the Susan G. Komen foundation.