For the smallest state in the union, Rhode Island is brimming with talent. Tiverton’s own Nicole Lebreux personifies our creative spirit with her line of funky, fresh, globally-inspired design, which turned heads at January’s StyleWeek Providence. Here’s what Nicole had to say about the experience and what she has in store moving forward:
What inspires your design in general, and what was the inspiration behind your StyleWeek collection? My main inspirations for design are the female form, nature, bright vintage fabrics, bold prints, comfort,
and simple utilitarian silhouettes. I took these main ideas a step beyond for my StyleWeek Fall 2012 collection by furthering my study on ancient Egyptian dressing techniques and surface design. I spent some time at the local library but also the MET in NYC looking at Egyptian pottery and carvings. I used a lot of their “organic geometric” shapes of zigzags, swirls, and hard edged florals and incorporated them into the silhouettes of my garments, but also into the design of the original screen print that I created and printed onto organic knit fabric. That fabric was an experiment for me but it was a huge hit!
Your line’s signature may be unexpected patterns that meet in feminine silhouettes—pieces that make women look beautiful. Would you describe your work as a celebration of the female form? Absolutely! The female form is one of the most beautiful of nature’s creations. Every woman should celebrate the physical traits that make her feminine as well as the characteristics that make her different. When you start exploring, accepting, and flaunting what makes you unique you can really let your personal style shine through!
What can we find you wearing on a comfortable, relaxed Saturday afternoon? A pair of my signature long leggings with a fitted tank or tee and a long thrift store cardigan accessorized with vintage jewelry and my bright red Toms.
Where do you source your fabrics? I find my spectacular fabrics in a million places from basements to midtown Manhattan fabric showrooms, from mills in California to the thrift store a block away from my house. Most of my vintage fabrics come from yard and estate sales, thrift stores, and auctions while some are donated by people who want their collections to be put to good use. My organics come from California mostly and mill surplus comes from a few old mills in RI and MA.
Where do you dream of taking your line? Your closet!
Shop Nicole Lebreux on Esty by CLICKING HERE and follow Nicole Lebreux Original Apparel on Facebook.
To see more of Nicole Lebreux’s designs, click the MORE link below!
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