There’s nothing more I love than hearing about talented people working together in Cleveland. Make that beautiful, talented and fashionable people, and it’s even better.
In interviewing model and designer Devi Crump of the local design team Rock La Chic, I found that fashion is alive and well in Cleveland, even though some may think differently. This fresh face for the local fashion industry took the time to answer a few questions, and I look forward to hearing much more from Devi and the girls of Rock La Chic. Be sure to check them out.
How did you get into modeling?
I’ve always been interested but was just too shy. I entered a modeling contest my freshman year of college. I didn’t win, but I gained a lot of confidence and started working with local photographers in the Akron and Cleveland area.
Tell me about the Rock La Chic design team and how you all got started?
My friends La’Toya, Jazzmine and I decided to put our talents together. There are a lot of talented people who do what we do alone, but how many fashion designers, make-up artists and hairstylists put their talents together around here? So Rock La Chic was born and our talents compliment each other very well. Check us out at http://www.wix.com/DeviCrump/RockLaChic
Where do you pull inspiration for your shoots from? How much say do you have in them?
To me the shoot depends on the outfit the model is wearing. First I create the outfit, then Jazzmine and La’Toya put together great hair and make-up to go with it.
Who is your favorite fashion designer? Who is your favorite model?
Heatherette are my favorite designers, and Adriana Lima is my favorite model.
What inspires you? How do you regain your creativity if you feel uninspired?
Everything around me inspires me. When I get designer’s block, I look outside, watch TV, read, etc.
When designing your clothes, do you sit down and plan it out, or do the designs just happen as you start to work?
I just make it up as I go along – it’s more fun and exciting that way. When I make a custom outfit for a client, that has to be planned out, though.
What do you like about the fashion scene in Cleveland, and what would you change?
Right now I’m not too happy with it. I wish people would be their own person and have their own style instead of copying someone else’s. I think a lot of people don’t wear what they want or like because they are afraid of what others will say.
What is your favorite and least favorite trend of the moment?
Leggings are my favorite, and Crocs are my least favorite. They are just so ugly to me.
What advice do you have for people who want to break into the fashion business?
Don’t be afraid to be different and stand out.
Do you think Cleveland is an untapped market for talent?
Oh yes, I see and know so many talented people here. I hope everyone reaches their goal and captures their dream.
What is one accessory you can’t live without? What is one beauty item you can’t live without?
I HAVE to wear earrings. I feel naked without them - even in my sleep! And lip gloss is the beauty item I need always. No one likes dry lips.
For more information:
www.wix.com/DeviCrump/RockLaChic
www.twitter.com/DeviDev_RLC
www.twitter.com/Rock_La_Chic
