DESIGNER PROFILE : REBECCA MICHAELS

Have you guys heard about Rebecca Michaels and her line? Because you should've.

It all started 6 years ago when Rebecca began designing fun headbands, under the name Violet Love. She was looking for a headband for herself that could be worn wide or narrow and to the gym or as a fashion piece. Unable to find something like that, she felt the need to fill the gap in the market. At this point, she was actually living on the East Coast and working as a Land Development Engineer - I know, crazy. However, Rebecca knew this wasn't her true passion and believed in herself and her brand enough to leave the 9 to 5 gig. After much dedication and some well deserved recognition, the headbands took off.



Since then, Rebecca has relocated to Los Angeles where Violet Love has continued to grow. After deciding that her headbands needed some company, Rebecca created a self titled new line of apparel and it's pretty amazing. Sticking true to her laid-back vibe, her line's focus is relaxed sportswear.



A couple weeks ago, I made my way to Downtown LA to check out Rebecca's workspace - which is any designers dream setup. Everything is right there at her finger tips. Her office is located inside a working factory where all of her designs are pattern-drafted, fabrics are printed and samples are sewn. She has the privilege to see all of her creations come to life right there on the spot.



Rebecca has such a genuine spirit about her - she is really down to earth. I enjoyed hearing her story about how everything has unfolded for her brand. She is also super generous - she took me to a back corner of the warehouse where her styles are stashed and offered up some pieces. The styles that she gave me are seriously so comfortable, but also cute and really flattering. The designs are well constructed and the fabrics incredibly soft. I highly recommend the Waihee Valley Jersey Knee Patch Pant - I've been living in mine for a few days straight (or maybe a week). To see her whole collection, visit rebeccamichaels.com

HSH X MR. KATE GIVEAWAY



The new Hanger Shortage vid featuring Kate Albrecht, of Mr. Kate, is now up. This girl does it all - jewelry design, spunky DIY videos and interior design. The way Kate ties all of these things together is so cohesive - not to mention inspiring.

Kate and I want to give you something pretty and shiny. So for a shot a winning an 18K gold Gimli Cuff, go ahead and follow @mrkatedotcom and @hangershortage on Instagram and don't forget to fill out the contest entry form on Kate's style interview page.

DESIGNER PROFILE : SAMANTHA GOLDSTONE

Check it out - a couple weeks ago I was roaming Central Cali and made it a point to stop at the Adesso Atelier in Santa Barbara.

First of all this boutique is amazing - it's so well curated. The woman behind it all is jewelry designer Samantha Goldstone. She began designing for her line Adesso a few years ago and as has since grown into this beautiful storefront and workspace.



This vintage doorknocker is just one example of the attention to detail that is shown throughout their flagship store. It has been customized and adorned with matching jewels to resemble a ring that Samantha wears.

In addition to her own line of handmade women's and men's jewelry, Adesso also carries a great collection of curated gifts and crafts as well as vintage home decor items. Samantha handpicks all the items for the store on her various travels around the world - including places like Italy and Mexico City. From what I've seen, everything she comes back with is unique and visually inspiring and I basically wanted to take it all home with me. I really liked hearing the stories behind all of her great finds - that's always the best part about buying vintage pieces.



The Adesso workspace is in the back of shop and all of the accessories are handmade there by Samantha and her team. All of the collections are very well thought out and carefully put together based on a specific inspiration or theme. Samantha designs her pieces using a mixture of materials, like eco-leather and silk threads, then combines that with assorted vintage beads that she also gathers during her travels.



Samantha and I sat down and chatted for a while about the philosophy behind everything she is doing. It was really obvious to me that she has a true creative vision for the brand which is clearly utilized in such a cohesive way. Also, giving back and actively supporting charities is a large component of the Adesso culture which I think is pretty cool.



When I first saw the Adesso line at PROJECT, the jewelry stood out and was unique and different, but when I visited the store I really began to have a greater connection with the product and the brand story. The Adesso Atelier is honestly so well curated, decorated, and filled with amazing one-off artisan type pieces. When you step foot in this store you immediately get the sense that this brand sticks to their guns and is definitely one of a kind. There are so many little treasures hidden throughout the store, you should just be prepared to spend most of your day there.



Stop by and visit my girl Samantha - The Adesso Atelier is at: 1209 De La Vina Street, Santa Barbara, CA and also check them out at their site: adessoshop.com

MERMAID OUT OF WATER

Hey, Happy Halloween! I don't know about you but I don't think you can ever be too old to celebrate and transform into character for the day.

For a few weeks now I've been debating on what to dress up as this year. To be honest, I usually just default to wearing the flapper dress that I've had since middle school. Yes, I'm still a very similar size - mayyyybe a bit taller :)



I've actually been inspired a lot by the mermaid hair color trend and since I have a few mystical mermaid photos floating around in my inspiration folder, I decided it'd be pretty fun to give that a try this year. Not only that, but to also design and create the costume myself.

Sometimes I have no idea why I add these extra random projects to my already flooded scheduled. I call it a 'creative curse' - it's all good though. I like playing with fabrics that I typically might not. I picked up both the sequined and burlap fabrics at the Fashion District and created a quick bralette and skirt pattern, sewed them up and 'Bam' - instant mermaid - minus the seaweed. Ew.



So, as far as the hair goes - I've never ever dyed my hair and I wasn't about to. But I also really liked the idea of trying out the mermaid hair for fun. Luckily, I came across this stuff called Color Rub. It's basically like a chalk that is applied by rubbing it onto the hair. The best part is that it washes out the first time around. Best of both worlds.

31 BITS HQ LAUNCH SHINDIG

31 Bits recently grew into a fancy new headquarters and their crew threw a little party to celebrate.

I seriously love the story behind 31 Bits and the way they've structured their brand. The jewelry company is based right here in Costa Mesa. Back in 2007, founder Kallie Dovel met a few women in Uganda making beautiful jewelry using paper beads. Wanting to help the women find an opportunity to sell the handmade accessories, Kallie spent time conceptualizing a brand that allowed them to do just that.



31 Bits gives back to the women in Uganda by providing them with more than just an income but also the opportunity for further education. In a country filled with poverty, 31 Bits empowers women and allows them to support their families and friends. What originally started out as 6 women designing and handcrafting this unique jewelry has now turned into nearly 100.



The entire headquarters was opened up for everyone to check out. The event had a lot of exciting stuff happening - food trucks, drinks, and a little bumpin' and grindin'. There was also the chance to take a gander at their new collection.



It's definitely a cool, local, inspiring story - find out more and take a peek at more of the goods at 31 Bits.

RETNA

Over the weekend I headed up to LA and stopped by to see Retna's gallery show.

I first learned of Retna last year when I checked out MOCA's Art in the Streets exhibit. I really like his style and since then it's sort of stuck with me.



This skull is a small portion from one of his pieces - I thought it was pretty cool and different from his usual style of abstract graffiti hieroglyphics.



I was surprised and also loved that fact that he revamped the exterior of the Michael Kohn Gallery with a mural of his art.



So if you're going to check it out, do it soon - the exhibit is closing Oct. 27th. But you still have time, so go.

HANGER SHORTAGE : MR KATE : TEASER

Last month, as soon as I finished filming with Kate Albrecht of Mr. Kate, I knew her video was going to be a tough one to edit.

There's simply too much good stuff. I'm not even sure how I made it through the style interview - Kate had me cracking up the whole time. In the midst of editing the vid I started pulling some clips aside and put together this little teaser to get everyone all excited - I know, I'm such a tease.



Anyway, it won't be long until you get see my full visit inside Kate's closet.

CRAFTED

Soooo, I may have done a little shopping over the weekend.

There's this place in San Pedro called Crafted and that's where my cash disappeared. Anyway, it's actually a really cool warehouse that holds a bunch of artist booths selling things like jewelery, home decor, plants and art.



I really liked some of the set-ups and different ways that this stuff was displayed. It made me want to go thrifting and make a bunch of DIYs or something.



After wandering the 100 booths I picked up some art, succulents, and a few cookie cutters - including a dino cut out. Yeah, I know, I was excited too.



Outside there's this cool rustic vintage jeep turned flower planter - see, again more DIY ideas.



I obviously really enjoy places like this, where I can find something different and unique - and to me it's cool that it's a permanent set-up and open every weekend.