This past November, I had the honor to have a Shelly Schalamon create me a custom designed for the Colorado Aid’s Project Red Ball event! We had fun picking out fabric and turning my personality into an actual couture gown. My style is very playful and I like to change outfits multiple times in an evening. Shelly created me a dress that went from formal to fun, all in the whooosh of a removable skirt / train! It was so much fun to wear her design on the runway as I emceed the event and over the course of the evening, totally convert the look into something that I could jump into the arms of strong men in 🙂
1) What is your first memory that you were inspired wit
h fashion?
h fashion?I wanted to go into tap dancing because of the costumes. I loved dress up princess parties, I loved doing makeup too. I wanted to be just like Betty Grable in Moons over Miami and wear all of her beautiful clothes.
2) You are self taught. When did you begin to teach yourself?
I was 10 or 11 when I made doll clothes and then in 5th grade, I was cast as one of the American girls in a play and I made myself a replica dress for the show. I also remember making a bikini as a teen and then eventually made a formal dress that I designed with a seamstress. I drew out the design and picked out the fabrics.
Now I do all the sewing myself but at the time a formal gown was beyond my expertise!
3) How have your fashions evolved since you began?
Now, my designs are more sophisticated with more details. I continue to learn every day! I’m drawn to make gowns and couture fashion. I like intricate things, beading, secret pockets, …the artistry of couture. Designing is like a painting with the fabric as my canvas.
4) Who are your fashion inspirations?
Ralph and Russo , Marchesa & Elie Saab. Locally; Gino Velardi, Deedee Vicory, Carlos Melendez, Eddie Rickey, Anthony Heiman of Nicholas Anthony.
5) How would you describe your personal style sense and the style of your designs?
Personal: Comfortable, classic, retro. I love dressing up and being girly when I go out on the town.
Designs: Classic and timeless, versatile and updated. I like to update old classics like creating a circle skirt but cut it down the middle. I also love adding details like lace. I love the unexpected.
6) Where can we find your designs?
Contact directly on FB and Instagram
Etsy store