Only One More Sleep!!!

I know I've said this before peeps.....but I'll say it again. I am so excited for Alberta Fashion Week. ABFW started yesterday, but tomorrow marks one of the first event of many! I'll be heading off to the Opening Show at 7pm at the Banke (125 8 Ave. SW - I think you can still get tickets Calgary!), for the Dutch Blonde & alala show!!! Then I'm off to the Media reception at Escoba(624 8 Ave. SW - I've been there before and it's a sweet little spot). Seriously? I can't wait!

In keeping with the theme of fashion, I decided that it would be perfect to include an interview with Morgan Mallett a serious Calgary fashionista! I had the pleasure of meeting her in person at the Portobello West Art Market and I've gotta say, she is a breath of fresh air. I'd say that she is definitely FPP - friendly, personable & passionate. Her jewellery designs have graced the runway at Vancouver Fashion Week, and she was recently showcased in Elle Canada's' "Ones to Watch" editorial piece (October 2009). There's been quite a buzz about the creative genius behind Design + Conquer. So, sit back folks, as I am proud to present another lovely interview on The Creative Mixx.

What city are you based out of?
I’m currently based out of Calgary, Alberta. I visit my hometown of Vancouver quite regularly—people are often confused about where I’m from!

How did you get started? And how long have you been a Designer?
I’ve been designing for myself (and my family) since I was little. Whether that was making jewellery, selling my drawings on the side of the road(instead of lemonade!), or sewing booties for my cats as a child (I wouldn’t recommend this…haha), I’ve always experimented with different materials. I was fortunate to have a family that encouraged this.

Where do you get your inspiration from?
From everywhere—I’m an incredibly visual person, and constantly collect visual information (on scraps of paper,in sketchbooks, and on my computer). I’m also inspired by music and movies—I swear I watch some movies just for the art direction! I’m also always on the hunt for new and inspiring music…I rarely design without music.

Are you ever uninspired?
If so, how do you get over the slump? Sometimes,yes! I love running and being active—this helps me step out of my mind and into my body. By confronting the lack of creativity head-on, you can corner yourself even more, so I find that shifting activities (or doing nothing at all), can help get things flowing again. Also, watching a cheesy fashion movie like Zoolander can help put things into perspective and inject some humour into the situation!

Name one fashion item you can't live without?
Hmmmm…so hard. Besides a pair of D + C earrings, I’d say a good bra!

Have you got any special projects on the go right now?
Yes! I’ll be collaborating with clothing designer Jessica Biffi for her LG (aka Toronto)Fashion Week show. She’ll be using DESIGN + CONQUER earrings for her show on October 23. Am super excited, as I’m flying out for the show!

Any advice for newbies starting out?
Try and avoid thinking of design areas as self-contained, autonomous specialties— jewellery design, clothing design,graphic design, architecture...etc. Design is design, and can be translated into many areas. The more I learn to do this, the more excited I get— design is such a powerful tool. That, and just do it! Get out there and test the waters.

Feast your eyes on these unique & innovative pieces. They're TDF (that's "To Die For" peeps!)

The pieces that you'll find at Design + Conquer definitely make a statement. However, I've gotta let y'all know, these pieces are extremely lightweight (it's like having a feather dangle from your ear-lobes)I've held them in the flesh....

If you are looking to spruce up an outfit that will get people talking, head on over to Design + Conquer. Morgan's on Etsy too! So, you can Click Here to visit her shop.