Funky Buddha & Coffee.

Happy Friday Readers,

 

Yesterday I spent the morning with my best friend Tess. We decided that after a crazy year for both of us, it was time for a detox. Not a dieting detox, more like a people one. The day started with an amazing hot yoga class at the Funky Buddha, which is my new favorite yoga place. The instructors were super helpful and the yoga was amazing. This cleansed our exam stress away and we were refreshed for the day.

After yoga, we headed over to my favorite coffee shop called The Lantern Coffee Bar. Their lattes are my all-time favorite and I love the baristas. At the cafe, Tess and I talked for a couple hours. While talking we decided that we needed to detox our lives from negativity and find more happiness in the world. We began to clean up our follower lists on social media, getting rid of any negative energy.

 

It felt great! Now that the semester is over it opens up more time for adventures and less time for negativity. Detoxing your life goes beyond social media though; if you are feeling stressed, down on your self-image or have a negative outlook on the future, maybe it’s time for you to cleanse your mind and find yourself again.

It’s easy for us to get lost in negative energy and turn down a path that makes us hate ourselves. After losing self-confidence from being around people that made me feel ashamed of my weight and bad mouthed one another on a day to day basis, I never felt like I was pretty or good enough. Then, I made the decision (which can be difficult) to remove myself from the situation and find my happy, go lucky self again.

Sometimes in life you are going to get caught in a negative place but find the strength to remove yourself and learn to treat yourself with the respect you deserve. You are beautiful, smart and enough, no matter what another person may tell you. If you have found negativity in your soul, maybe it is time you hit up a yoga class and grab a coffee and just be happy.

 

Yoga is not only a great workout that improves flexibility and strength, it also improves you mind and spirit. I was so happy to have this morning, it was a great start to my summer and to my new adventures.

Thank you all for reading up on this little adventure. Be sure to check out both places that Tess and I went in the links above. These are both places we love and we know you would too. I hope your weekend is filled with possibility and positivity.

Happy Fri-yay!

xo,

Lyss

Just a Thought From Yours Truly.

Hello Beautiful Readers,

Happy Monday and once again I apologize for my absence lately, it’s been a busy two weeks. But, I am almost finished with my Sophomore year of college and it’s been crazy. So many things have changed since August, it’s almost unreal. This change has been bittersweet, there has been things that I thought would never end the way they did (cheer) and there are things that I could not be more happy to have left behind. (toxic friends)

My life this semester has been quite different, but I have found myself being more confident and comfortable with my life. I am not afraid of others thoughts, I can dance in public and careless about what some stranger has to say. It’s a beautiful feeling. Being confident is not always an easy task, hell I have bad days still. For example right now, finals have got me stressed to the max. I have had hardcore writers block along with bad breakouts, my self-confidence is at 0. But, everyday is a new day to wake up and be optimistic about the day.

But, enough about me, the point here is:

Yes, this quote relates to my story because my life was so different only 6 months ago. Where I am today seemed impossible then. But, this quote also relates to finals week too. Finals always seem impossible until they are complete. Although they seem impossible at times, we are forced to take them and in the end we are okay.

I wanted to share this quote because it relates to both a large and small scale. On a large scale, you could be feeling stuck in a deep rut that feels never ending and impossible but before you know it you will beyond the tough times. On a small scale like finals, it can seem so stressful and terrible, but once they are complete and grades are in you find ease once again.

The moral of the story here is that no matter what the obstacle may be, big or small, attack it head on everyday because although it may seem quite impossible it is truly possible if you believe. That sounds completely cheesy, but if you give yourself the chance to be great you will. Don’t set yourself to the standards of society, be comfortable with who you want to be and believe that you are greater than you know.

I’ve been telling one of my best friends this the past couple of weeks because I often hear her degrade herself based on how other women look, when she is by far one of the prettiest people I know. She does not wear lots of make up and she has such a classic style, I admire that. Girls think they have to cake on make up to be pretty and while she is more worried about her thighs, I am jealous over how pretty she looks naturally. Basically, it’s a never ending cycle.

Find your self-confidence and break out of your comfort zone because that’s when you will find yourself doing things you once thought were impossible. Once again, I’m no expert and I don’t think any of us will ever be. The take away here is just to try. Start each day with affirmations, surround yourself with good people and be inspired by the world.

Remember, what seems impossible today will one day be your warm up.

Thanks for reading today and I hope your Monday was far from crappy. Stay tuned for a post coming later this week about a little downtown adventure to close this wonderful semester. Thanks again.

xo,

Lyss

 

End of the Semester Motivation.

Hello Readers,

The winter semester is finally coming to a close and it’s time to dig up that last ounce of motivation. I did a post similar to this back in the fall semester and I think it is fitting to do a new spring themed one, the weather is changing and it’s time to get back into that happy lifestyle. We have about 2-3 weeks left, depending on your university, and it’s time to buckle down. Finals are fast approaching, along with endless research assignments and last minute quizzes. So…

Where do you begin?

The trick is to “Just Start” somewhere, anywhere. If you sit down and dive right into an assignment, you are one step closer to being done. I really tried to do this technique this past weekend, but the weather made it inevitable. But, this is the best way to accomplish anything. Using this mentality for finals week will make you get ahead quicker than you think. Just keep moving!

Today, I am going to give you best advice to enjoy the weather but get s**t done while you are at it.

Get organized…today

You need to layout your last couple weeks, this will not only reduce stress and anxiety, but it will make you feel more accomplished with each assignment you finish. Hopefully you have been utilizing an agenda, if so then write in all your due dates, along with final exam times. Another thing I do on top of that is make a separate list with everything that needs to be accomplished that week. That way, when I finish something I can cross it off the list.

Take breaks

This is the part where you enjoy the weather. I have never been one to cram in the first place, but I am a true believer in getting out of your study brain and taking a break. For example, a friend and I went to the beach to see the the sunset the other day. It was a simple 2-3 hour trip that allowed me to step back from the week and breathe. Another break idea if you are cramming is to study in 30-40 minute intervals, then take 15 minute breaks. This keeps your mind fresh and makes retaining information easier then non-stop studying.

Find a study spot

I love my library, but during this time of the year it is packed full. Finding a new study spot is key. I enjoy heading downtown to a cozy coffee shop because they are less packed, quiet and there is coffee. I am also the most productive in these settings. You can pick any place really, just make sure you can be productive and comfortable.

Water & Snacks

You’re right in the middle of studying and all of a sudden your stomach growls, you haven’t eaten all day. My best advice is to always pack some snacks and water. Hydration is important always, but even more crucial when you are supposed to be on top of your game. Snacks help you stay focused as well because you won’t have to leave your focused zone to go find food. Pull out your inner soccer mom and pack a cooler.

Sleep

My favorite of all…sleep. Getting enough sleep during these last few weeks in crucial to keeping your mind sharp. Pulling all-nighters is not the key to success. Sleeping will help you be more awake and retain the stuff you are studying better. So, do not follow the crowd  mentality and sleep in the library, go home get your 8 hours and start early the next day.

These are just a few of my personal tips, there are endless ways to prepare for this week but we all know the best is when it’s over. Exams are important but so is our mental healthy and stability. Treat yourself. When you accomplish a large task, celebrate with an exhilarating outdoor workout or a pizza for that matter. What ever feeds your soul, do it. In the end, all the study time and exams will just be the past. Always remember that everything happens for a reason and things will always work out one way or another.

Now I’ll share some of my favorite quotes that will hopefully give you a little mental motivation for the weeks ahead:

Thank you for reading this short post today, once again I will be crazy busy this next week and I will do my best to post. I should have a #GirlBoss at some point this week so keep your eyes open for that. I wish you the best of luck and strength to make it through the semester. Just dig deep to find that last ounce of motivation and focus. Good luck on finals and remember, you can do this!

Happy Monday.

xo,

Lyss

Kendall College of Art & Design Capstone Fashion Show

Hello Readers,

It’s another Friday and that means we are that much closer to the end of the semester. I am so excited for this semester to come to close and be on to summer festivities. The weather is finally warming up here in the mitten (I may have jinxed it just now…) and that means better moods and beach days.

Wednesday night I had the opportunity to attend the Kendall College of Art & Design Capstone Fashion Show: UnEarth that displayed collections from seniors at KCAD, which were inspired by the elements of the Earth. The show was all around outstanding, from the venue to the collections, my expectations were definitely exceeded. When I got to the show I ran into some familiar faces, such as the ladies from Parliament and designers I had met at the previous show. I am so thrilled to be getting involved with such a growing community.

The venue for this event was at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market on the second floor in one of the green houses. It had that NYFW feel, which was super fun. It was such a beautiful spot to hold the show. The show began at 8:00 pm, beginning with some of the underclassmen’s designs, which were representing Peaks, Valleys and Coast. These were very unique pieces, they incorporated a lot of different textured fabrics and 3D aspects. I loved how these young designers combined the earthy tones and theme with high-fashion, wearable pieces. These garments were tailored so well, it was truly unbelievable to think these are my peers creating such amazing garments.

Picture by Briana Morell | Follow Bri @brianamorell

After a short intermission, it was on to the main event, Capstone Collections. There was a total of 7 collections; all bringing a different style to the runway. Eva Chen was the first designer to display her collection, which was called “Conglomerate”. She mixed earth tones and textured fabrics with this poppy red material, they were unique and memorable pieces. Next was Alexis Troxell, her collection included 3D knits, mixed media and ready to wear pieces, she called her collection “Dreamstate”. One of my favorite collections in the show was Audrey Langejans. Her collection, called “neo-luxe”, included neoprene sportswear and handmade footwear. Emphasizing on the footwear aspect, Audrey is the first KCAD student to make shoes and to create a line for her collection. I was able to interview Audrey after the show, which I will share her specific thoughts below.

A few of the other designers, including Rose Stone, Rachel Krause and Layla Jones, experimented with styles like bridal collections and hand fabricated textiles. Rachel Krause not only put out at stellar collection, but she also did her models hair and make up for the show. Out of all the models, her models definitely had the most unique make up. (Top image is one of her models)

Nicole Cruz-Flores was the last designer in the show, but her collection definitely left a lasting statement on the crowd. Unlike all the other designers, Nicole made the risky decision to showcase a lingerie collection. She mention that this was opposed by many but she did not care she wanted to make a statement. I really loved her for having this attitude because in the fashion world you have to be willing to defy the odds to be successful. I also had the opportunity to interview her on her future career plans and this particular collection.

Here are my interviews with both Audrey and Nicole:

What was your favorite part about this specific project?

N: Nicole decided to change her collection half way through the semester to lingerie, she took a risk in order to pursue what she truly wanted to design.

A: Audrey not only created a collection for the show, but she also created all the marketing for the event. Things such as the fabric programs we received at the show and the banners inside the building. She said she had the most fun with this project. She also mentioned being a senior has been a fun journey and creating her line of shoes was another highlight.

How did you prepare for this collection (Sketches, fabric choice, etc.)?

N: Nicole said she always starts with picking fabrics and then she moves into the sketching process. For this project she said she dived into sewing as quick as she could.

A: Earlier in Audrey’s schooling she had taken a footwear class at KCAD which had prepared her and inspired her for this footwear collection. Another influence was her industrial design class, she really wanted to incorporate industrial design techniques and styles into her capstone collection. To start, she examined the fabrics she wanted, specifically neoprene and then she worked on her designs. For the shoe collection, she had to work on refining the leathers and creating 3D prints. One of her favorite pieces out of the collection was the couture jacket she had made in a previous class.

What were some difficulties you had with this collection?

N: People being uncomfortable with the idea. Nicole mentioned how creating the lingerie was very risky because many people told her it could be offensive to some people in the audience. But, she disregarded these thoughts and pursued the collection she wanted to create.

A: The shoes were the most difficult piece in Audrey’s process. She explained the long process to me. She has to start by making prototypes and use a 3D printer. She has to test the prints to make sure they are the right size and shape they need to be. She wanted to make the shoes look handmade without making them look handmade. She wanted people to ask “Did she really make those?”

What are your future plans?

N: In the future, Nicole would like to start her own brand of lingerie and swimwear.

A: Audrey’s dream would be to start a handcrafted footwear company in West Michigan. She really wants to start with shoes.

| Follow Audrey on Instagram: @aglongjeans |

| Follow Nicole on Instagram: @Bon.Nicole |

More pictures from the show:

Photography by The James Morton Company.

Check out more pictures from James: @jamesmortonco

Overall, the show was well organized and the collections were beyond expectations. These young designers are sure to go far, keep your eyes open for their names in the future. I was so honored to be able to attend another KCAD event and I hope to continue attending. It was also such a pleasure to be able to interview some of the designers. I am so excited to see what their future brings. Be sure to catch more pictures on my Instagram account and news about my next event on my Twitter.

Instagram: @betweenvogue_vangogh | Twitter: @Vogue_VanGogh

Thank you all for reading today. This event was so fun to attend and I hope you all are enjoying these local coverage posts. It is super fun for me to do them, so let me know your feedback. If you do like these posts, subscribe below. I also have to give a huge thank you for James Morton Co. for being my personal photographer at the event, your time was greatly appreciated. Just a quick reminder that my next two weeks are busy so I may not be posting as much but don’t forget about me. Stay connected with me through the links above. Thanks again.

Happy Friday.

xo,

Lyss

UICA Color of the Year

Hello Cuties,

It’s the start of a new week and that means new possibilities. This past weekend I attended the X-Rite Pantone Color of the Year event at Urban Institute of Contemporary Art (UICA) in downtown Grand Rapids. Prior to the event I was able to interview two featured designers, which helped me gain a perspective of what was in store for the event.

Check out the interview with Parliament here…

Description from UICA: “Color of the Year is a group exhibition of original art works each utilizing the 2016 Pantone Color of the Year as a majr component of execution, and as a point of departure. The show recognizes the influence that fine art has on a color in the realms of fashion, interiors, graphic design, and industrial design. Color of the Year leads viewers on a journey from inspiration to realization with work by local, national and international artists including:

Susie Ganch, Chun Hui Pak, Kyd Kane, Matthew Kirk, Nobuho Nagasawa. Michael Peoples, Megan Roach, Tiffiany Smith, Brent Stirton, Elyse Welcher, Danielle Wyckoff, and many more.

In addition, Color of the Year will explore color use in interior, graphic design, fashion, and industrial design.”

At the event, multiple works of art were on display utilizing the colors of the year. The chosen colors of the year this year include Serenity and Rose Quartz. These colors are so beautiful, they exemplify such a light and airy vibe that is perfect for the spring season. The color of Serenity (shade of blue) represents truth and Rose Quartz (shade of pink) represents love and peace. In a chaotic society, these colors could not be more fitting. The world is in need of more love and truth.

The works of art on display at the gallery were amazing, they scaled from canvas paintings to large hung silks. The colors were represent so differently, yet they tied together so well. I was impressed with all of the displays. These displays took many long nights and early mornings to prepare for this gallery opening, but you can see the skill and creativity put forth in the projects. The artists on display came from all around the country; photographers, designers and artists. Below I am going to share a few of my favorite pieces, and if you attended please feel free to share your with me.

Processed with VSCO with c1 preset

Processed with VSCO with c1 preset

 

Being the Fashion lover I am, I was drawn to the clothing collection that utilized the featured colors. The garments were the perfect display of how the colors of the year influence the fashion world. The dress above was one of my favorites and now I want it. Another piece I loved was the dyed silks that scaled from the ceiling to the bottom floor. I liked this piece because I felt it was a really unique and bold work of art. Overall, all the pieces were well-designed and they each represented the colors of the year differently.

I was also able to finally see pieces from Elyse and Megan’s collection, from Parliament. They created some fantastic designs. In our interview they explained this was their first time really working together in the studio and creating pieces together, which the pieces turned out amazing. The ways they utilized each of their talents pulled the whole collection together really well. Remembering the fabric is naturally dyed adds difficulty and skill to every piece. This aspect made curating the colors of the year a little harder but after seeing the final product, they were up to the challenge. I’ve said it before but their pieces are truly unique. If you have yet to check out Parliament, now is the time to contribute to a truly authentic company.

The Color of the Year is important because it inspires many things around us, as mention above it inspires fashion, art and design across the world. After learning about the colors of the year, I began to see it everywhere. It’s in the sunset, it’s in my closet and its all over campus. I bet after reading this post you too will be more mindful of seeing the colors.

It was such an honor to be able to attend and cover this event a UICA. I was able to talk to many wonderful people thanks to Katie, the marketing and communications coordinator at UICA. I am looking forward to attending many more future events and bringing you all the info. If you missed out on the opening reception on Saturday, no worries the event goes on now through July 31st. It is something that you should definitely check out, it’s free for members and only $5 for the public. I highly recommend it! It’s fun for you and good for the community.

Monday Motivation:

Subscribe today to catch every review and post! I am working on really getting involved with the art community in GR and I hope you will follow me on this journey. If you attend this gallery please share your personal thoughts with me on Twitter or via E-mail. (alyssawaid13@outlook.com) This Wednesday I will be attending the Un.Earthed Fashion Show put on by Kendall (KCAD) with Simply Tess. I hope you tune in on Twitter for an update on the show. Thank you for reading on this sunny Monday.

Happy Monday.

xo,

Lyss

 

Trend Forecast: Spring Inspired Outfits

Hello Readers,

Today I wanted to bring you some of my favorite spring inspired pieces, the weather is slowly beginning to warm up in Michigan and I cannot wait to begin Spring festivities. I will also be attending another fashion show this coming Wednesday, be sure to check back next Friday for more fashion inspired posts.

This will just be a brief style post covering some of the current trends I have noticed and I will continue to post similar posts when I feel as though there is a new trend occurring. I would really love to hear your favorite trends too, so please share them with me on social media or in the comments.

Let’s Begin:

Starting with shoes, I am absolutely loving these three styles of shoes for the spring/summer season. They can be paired with anything from ripped boyfriend jeans to flowy summer skirts. I honestly, do not own any of these but they are definitely styles that I will have on my radar for spring shopping.

I really like these styles as well, especially for warmer spring days. They are utilizing the style of denim in different ways; denim is really a versatile fabric for the spring. I was shocked to see denim skirts making a comeback earlier this year but I am starting to like the button up styled ones. I feel as though they are a classic All-American style.  I am also really feeling dresses for this season, although I have yet to wear a dress in Michigan, I think they are a great spring/summer outfit.

I am planning on wearing a lot of dresses while I am in France. Jean shorts are another classic style, but I am really disappointed to see girls wearing them past their booty cheeks, it’s unflattering. I think a classy length is more suitable. Pairing these outfits with tennis shoes or trainers will give these outfits a more casual feel. Perfect for a busy spring day!

I have always loved street style and that is partially why I love the spring season, you can start to break out your spring pieces but spice them up with layers. I really like the middle outfit above because I feel as though it is really fitting for those of us in the northern states because it’s still in the 40’s throughout April. This is a perfect little outfit to wear your favorite kimono with jeans and a sweatshirt, stylish yet warm. Ripped boyfriend jeans are also a great touch for the spring. With the fluctuations in temperatures, ripped jeans are a great way to ease into the weather change. I am really into a “minimalist” look for the spring, wearing lightweight fabrics and pastel colors make for a classic style. A simple white button up will never be “out-of-style”.

Street style is perfect for season changes because as your closet begins to change you can just pair just about anything and call it street style. Mixing winter favorites with spring favorites could not be a more perfect way to maximize your clothing choice but also expand your style.

These three bags are ones that I have been adoring this season. The pink one sticks out to me for my trip to France because it’s a cross-body that is small enough to carry as an everyday bag and through airports and train stations but it also zips for safety from pick pockets. The second bag is not the exact one I want but I plan on going to local farmers markets a whole bunch this summer and I really want a big bag that I can take with me to stuff full of veggies and fruits. The last handbag is just a simple style I have always loved, it’s versatile for all seasons and it’s a large bag that can hold a lot. I love handbags because they can really make a simple outfit more complex by adding a pop of color.

Check out Kate Spade for these styles.

*Disclaimer: These pictures and outfits are taken from Pinterest. These are only my personal suggestions based on what I have seen thus far this season. Everyone has different styles, these are just my all time favorites. Feel free to share your favorites with me.

Thank you all for reading this little post, I know it probably seems like I continue to hint around spring in my recent fashion post but spring has not officially sprung here in Michigan. (It was snow today!!). I cannot wait until that day. Tune in tomorrow to my Twitter account @Vogue_VanGogh to catch some shots from the opening reception of Color of the Year at UICA. I will  be sharing that post early next week. Enjoy your weekend!

Happy Fri-YAY!

xo,

Lyss

#GirlBoss [Heather Winia]

Hello Lovely Readers,

It’s that time again…#GirlBoss! This is my fourth #GirlBoss post in the series and I want to know everyone’s thoughts so far, what questions do you have for these powerful women that I have not yet included?

This weeks feature is a spunky fitness instructor and energetic mother, who truly encourages and empowers other women to be confident & positive. I am so excited for you all to get to know her. She has been my amazing dance for fitness instructor this whole semester and she helps me start my Monday’s & Wednesday’s on a positive foot. So, I present you with the wonderful Heather Winia:

What’s your story? 

WHO AM I?  Such a great question I think we all ask ourselves many times throughout our lives.

Here’s what I can tell you.

My name is Heather Winia and I am a proud mama of three beautifully, unique and amazing daughters.  I am an educator and Master Trainer for The World GROOVE Movement, which has connected me with a tribe of conscious truth seekers and speakers from all over the world.   I am a part-time professor at GVSU inspiring health and fitness and I am full-time lover of all things that feel really good.  Some of those things for me are spending time outdoors, getting my feet in the grass/sand and my face in the sun!   I enjoy moving my body in deeply nourishing ways and YES, I also enjoy my body, which hasn’t always been the case and is hard for most women.   I LOVE food, do NOT restrict my eating or my choices and I am all the better for it!  I consider myself a flexitarian, which means I get to eat whatever I want, whenever I want…so flexible and freeing!

I have experienced great loss in my life, first my husband left this physical world 4 years ago followed by my sister a year later.   Yet, each day I know I am blessed to wake up.  It is a gift given to me and I have gifts that I get to share with this world.   People say to me often, “I don’t know how you do it”, and all I can say is I have two choices: to NOT participate in this amazing life while I am here or to FULLY engage in this amazing life while I am here.  One of those sounds much better than the other and that is what I choose every day.  Life is too short to waste on negativity, living in ways that don’t feel good and holding onto “shoulds”, “have tos” and ‘musts”.

Favorite Quote?

One of my favorite quotes is “If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.”  So many people keep trying things the same way expecting different results.  Another name for that is insanity.  I hope that I can inspire others to live fully the way that feels good to them without any rules or regulations.  This is YOUR LIFE and you only get one, so choose things that feel INCREDIBLE each and every day!

Daily or morning routine?

A regular practice of feel good activities is important.  For me, before I go to bed each night, I set my alarm and reflect on a positive affirmation.  My alarm app is Spirit Junkie (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/spirit-junkie/id574867953?mt=8) and it gives me a new affirmation each day.  I am passionate about getting a good night sleep (bed by 11pm) so that I wake up refreshed.  In the morning, before I open my eyes, my mind becomes conscious and I begin my gratitude practice.  Simply running through things in my mind I am grateful for, people, events and even situations that don’t seem great, but are teaching me something and helping me grow.  I then begin to stretch my body, being grateful for all it does for me each day.  When my feet hit the floor, I am aware that today is a gift and I get to create it!  I drink a glass of room temperature water before anything else and then I’m off and running.  Kids, school, house cleaning, bills, the dog, friends, groceries and an attitude of gratitude for it all.  If I didn’t love it and it didn’t feel good, it would be my job and my pleasure to change it until it did.   Lyrics from a really good song say it best. “Life is short to play silly games.” (Perfect by Fairground Attraction https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/fairground-attraction/id2931272)  This is a great song to sing at the top of your lungs and of course we DANCE to it in GROOVE sessions all the time.  And I cannot forget, DANCING and SINGING are two priorities I schedule in EVERYday to make me feel amazing!!!  It is my hope that everyone dances through life, using their voice for truth and confidently knowing you cannot get your life wrong, just try it and see!  If it isn’t working, make a different choice.  It really can be that simple!  No drama, confusion or expectations, just simplicity because SIMPLICITY FEEDS YOUR SOUL!

I was so thrilled to be able to have Heather be a feature on #GirlBoss this week. I have been so inspired and empowered by her this semester and I know through her line of work she has done this to hundreds of women. She is the perfect example of why I started this #GirlBoss series, to find women who empower and inspire other women to be their best self and not judge one another.

In our dance for fitness class, we test our fears and break barriers to find our most free and happy self. I LOVE this aspect, it really starts my day in an amazing, positive way. This class has taught me to be more carefree about what others are thinking about me, and I think that is what the point of GROOVE is. Besides being an awesome way to get fit, I think it is a program that teaches people to free themselves and express themselves through dance. It really is a freeing experience if you allow yourself to be fully engaged. If you are a GVSU student I highly recommend her as an instructor, and if you are not I encourage you all to try a GROOVE class sometime. It is such a fun experience!

Today’s Quote from me:

I picked this quote because I felt like it went well with my #GirlBoss feature. We as people, especially women, often feel as though we need to be like everyone else because we fear that if they act different, we will be weird. I wish we could break this norm and realize that being the same is boring, the world is more beautiful when people act like themselves and be who they want to be. Women are constantly held to this standard, we have to have this “perfect” look to impress guys and we have to wear expensive clothes to fit in with the other girls, but we absolutely do not have to. So, if you are finding yourself trying to fit the norms of society…STOP! Be yourself, don’t be the same be better. Being the same is boring; be bright, “weird” and most of all be yourself.

Thank you all for reading this weeks #GirlBoss, I hope you all love it! Remember to share this post with friends and family, if you like it.  Also, subscribe to keep getting all my newest posts. This weekend is the UICA Color of the Year event and I will be attending the opening to bring you a review on the works of art.Also, next week I will be attending another Fashion Show with Simply Tess, so be sure to tune in for an amazing post on that. Thank you again for reading today.

Happy Wednesday.

xo,

Lyss

 

Sneak Peek of Parliament the Boutique’s New Collection

Hello Readers,

This past weekend I was able to meet with two of the amazing and talented designers at Parliament the Boutique in downtown Grand Rapids. This shop carries work from many different designers, but I had the pleasure of speaking with two of the co-owners, Elyse and Megan. Elyse, the owner of the LittleWings Designs brand, she curates many of the handbags and leather work within the shop, and Megan, owner of Adventure Textiles, works with fiber arts and natural dyes.She works with a lot of the fabric related work with in the shop. Parliament will be having not only an in-store display during Art.Downtown but they will also have an exhibit at the UICA X-Rite Pantone: Color of the Year event on April 9th.

Megan and Elyse started out as roommates after college, they began each of own their own individual brands during this time but they began to outgrow their space. Jake, another part owner at Parliament and husband to Elyse, also outgrew his creative space. The trio began to conspire ideas and along came the first ever store front location “Parliament”. They all still have their individual brands, but all within Parliament. They expressed that they really wanted to make Parliament it’s own thing. (Store front pictured above)

I was so excited when Elyse responded to my message about setting up an interview with them. It was really amazing to talk to them about their creative process and how they find inspiration for a new piece. Talking to these two, I was able to pick up on their passion for not only the business but the art side. They don’t just make something because they have to, they make each piece with love. Elyse even mentioned being offered a job in New York, where she would be making Dora the Explorer backpacks. She decided against the opportunity, with a little persuasion from Megan, because she realized she would be forced to create one product over and over again. With her own brand she is able to change and create anything she wants. I found this to be important because although a job may seem perfect, be sure it does not damage your worth and creativity.

 

During Art.Downtown, Parliament will be releasing their newest collection and I was able to interview them on this process. I’ll share their responses below.

What are you most excited for with this collection release and Color of the Year event?

For this project Megan and Elyse were able to work collaboratively and that was a new experience for them. They usually are not at the studio at the same time nor are they working closely together on projects. They stated they liked this experience though because it was nice to have the other ones opinion at hand. Artists can be very critical of their own work and having that second opinion to reassure their confidence was helpful. They were able to influence one another to prevent this self-judgement.

It was also exciting for them because they features at the UICA event. Their display will be a fiber instillation of dyed silks with product display in front. Parliament (the store front) will also be having its very own display for the Art.Downtown event to showcase all of their designers. The new collection will display the colors of the year: Rose Quartz and Serenity Blue.

What was difficult about designing these new pieces?

They stated they struggled to constantly achieve the colors of the year since they use natural dyes in many of their pieces. Although, they did mention it was easier for them to achieve these light, airy colors than it is when they work to achieve fall harvest colors. These colors took a lot less dye, whereas the dark fall colors must be dyed multiple times to achieve the desired colors. They mention that the process of dying is a lot of “trial and error”.

Elyse told me that she often works with earthy tones and that made this particular project a little more difficult for her. They also mention Jake struggled to utilize these colors through his pieces, due to the fact that he often utilizes the color black in his work. This is because he works with a company called Victor Ax & Tool, where they collaborate leather designs with customized Ax’s. Therefore, adding pink and blue to this design was difficult.

The creative process for this new collection:

They mention how this collection was a little different than their usual collections because they were given limitations. They usually let their designers work freely and create however they wish, but for this collection they added the limits of using the colors of the year. They were worried their designers would be resistant to the limits, but the turnout was positive. It gave the new collection a path and allowed the pieces to mesh together well.

Once again, they worked hard to achieve the colors of the year within their dyes, which was a long but fun process to work with the new colors. They worked closely with their designers to brainstorm ideas for this collection.

A business model you admire:

imogene + willie

Elyse talked about how this jean company appealed to her because they were creating a unique piece in the market. They were similar to Parliament before they went big with Anthropology. They worked on creating custom fit jeans for men and women. Elyse said this brand admired how they stuck to their designs and business idea.

Others: Billykirk & Makr

 

The future of Parliament:

Both, Elyse and Megan have been invited to the Renegade Craft Fair, which is a huge expo within their industry. They are hoping this large event will give them some exposure to a new audience to further grow their brand. They are also prepping for a summer tour, where they will travel the country and do multiple pop-up shows. Plus, they are looking at creating a catalog, in which their customers can purchase if they are unable to purchase one of their pieces. This will also help them appeal to more artists and designers, connect with more customers and create a memorable piece for their brand. Creating a catalog will give people a piece of Parliament they can carry with them.

Elyse stated she wanted to work on creating more high-end looking handbags in a later collection. She has noticed her audience demands her bags that resemble this style. Jake also takes custom designs, which creates many more customers because they are able to get a seriously unique piece. Megan works with a loom as well, her designs are extremely unique because of the natural dyes she is using.

Lastly, Parliament is in-search of hiring some interns to work closely with them and learn how the business works. This is a new addition since most of the business has been run by the designers. You can check out all of Parliaments upcoming events and projects by adding them on Facebook or Instagram. (Links below)

A final note from me:

My interview with these designers was amazing, I was so humbled by the opportunity and I cannot wait to return to their shop. I also loved the company of shop cat Amadeus. They are so genuine in their work and their lives. They work hard on breaking the mold of the industry and creating a really unique brand. Their pieces are so unique and they are a refreshing brand in the market. I am excited to see their new collection, as well as their display at UICA Color of the Year.

Parliament on Facebook | Parliament on Instagram | Color of the Year Event

Website: Parliament the Boutique

This is only a sneak peek of what’s in store from Parliament, be sure to check it out yourself next Saturday at Art.Downtown in Grand Rapids, Mich..

Thank you all for reading this interview/ sneak peek. Don’t forget to check out some of their work and share this article. Let me know your thoughts on this new kind of post in the comments. We are slowly growing, so subscribe now and don’t miss any of the action. Thank you again for reading and sharing.

Happy Friday.

xo,

Lyss