What profession would you take on if you weren’t a designer?
I always dreamed of being a professional tennis player. I love to play and the cute tennis outfits but since I am not the least bit athletic, I’ll stick to designing accessories. Maybe I can make a cute tennis bag.
What made you decide you wanted to be a designer?
I kind of fell into it, actually. I love to shop and I’m color obsessed…the brighter, the better. So I opened a boutique called Colori, in San Marino, CA where I sell colorful accessories from all over the world. Inspired by these independent designers I’ve met I decided to create my own collection of accessories. I started with just a sampling of wallets and coin purses and they flew off the shelf, so I expanded my collection to include handbags, plus business and travel accessories. I’ve been involved with The Help Group, and I’m always looking for ways to help this wonderful organization, so I am proudly donating a portion of every sale to their autism education and applied research programs. That’s what really gets my creative and design juices flowing.
What do you love most about fashion?
I love the fluidity. It comes and goes and swings back again. It reinvents itself and rediscovers old trends and never gets stale. I love how fashion gives people a canvas to express themselves and show their true colors.
Who is your style icon?
Delvaux. Since1829 this family-owned company has been designing what I feel is the world’s most luxurious handbags. Each handbag is rightly referred to as a masterpiece. It’s inspiring.
What's the most inspiring place for you?
Calalazo Di Cadore, a quaint town in the Veneto region of Italy nestled at the foothills of the Dolomites. It’s unspoiled beauty, rich history, fresh mountain air and spectacular sunsets energize me.
Do you have a specific research process when you start designing new pieces?
My customers are my best resource. Owning my own accessories boutique affords me the perfect incubator to test new designs and find out what colors, features and price points excite my customers.
What’s on the radio when you’re working?
Joseph Calleja, a supremely talented Maltese tenor. I like to end every day on a high note.
What has been the highlight moment of your career so far?
Hands down it was writing my first check to The Help Group. Partnering with the Help group and donating a portion of every purchase makes everything I do more colorful.
Oneoddbird is available on http://modalyst.co/