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Q1 Could you tell us what's a highlight of your recent design career?
There's a popular nightclub here in Chicago called The Underground that held a design competition to help outfit the waitresses in new uniforms. My jewelry is going to be included and I'm very excited because the nightclub, along with our local entrepreneurial center, has been a big driving force behind promoting local fashion/artistic talent. I'm looking forward to it. |
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Q2 What did you get the concept for Summer2008 collection?
I've always wanted to make really big, really bold pieces. I think jewelry should be noticed and should be fun and loud. I kind of just went for it – taking risks with very substantial pieces and chains. If people said a piece was too big to wear, it made me want to use it that much more. I love the outcome.
Q3 What is the one must-have article of clothing for women this spring/summer?
I'm obsessed with cropped leather bomber jackets right now. It's perfect for the winter/spring crossover and if you buy a lighter-weight one, you can wear it almost year round. I think they go with almost everything and add a tough edge to most outfits. H&M has some great low-cost options.
Q4 What are you working on now?
I'm trying to get into more stores. That's always the goal. |
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Q9 Music to live by
Jazz. Of all kinds. I recently discovered Christian Scott and I love his take on the genre. I'm kind of across the board and am always excited when people introduce me to new sounds. I've been going old school lately though – Fleetwood Mac, Etta James, Billie Holiday. It changes everyday. |
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Q10 What do you see people wearing on the streets that you think is not tasteful?
When things don't fit, it drives me crazy. It's sad because I think most American women are so swayed by the size of the garment they're wearing and will squeeze themselves into a certain number when it clearly doesn't fit. We'd all be a lot happier if we cut the tags off of our clothes and just bought what fit our body type! In terms of jewelry, I loathe the Playboy bunny. I think it's the grossest thing you can accessorize with. I'm all for sex appeal but not with a rhinestone-studded Playboy bunny hanging from your neck.
Q11 What is your favorite cuisine? Could you tell us a good restaurant in your area?
Again, lots of stuff! I've been into Indian food lately and there's a lunch buffet in Chicago at a place called India House. Really rich flavors and very delicious! |
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Designer Nicole James began designing and selling jewelry a few years ago. "My mom took me to New York and while in SoHo, I saw this street vendor selling handmade leather clutches. They were beautiful and I was so inspired to see a young person like myself trying to get their art directly into the hands of the public. I knew I could do it, too."
Each piece of Nicole James Jewelry is handcrafted in her studio space in The Art District in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood. "I love it here. I'm located near all of these really great art galleries and a lot of cool people. It motivates me to keep designing and evolving my aesthetic."
Focusing heavily on antique brass chain and filigree paired with extra shiny glass beads, Nicole's idea behind jewelry is celebration. "Jewelry should be seen. It should be fun and loud and exciting. My pieces are for risk-taking ladies who appreciate fashion, take whiskey shots, and talk to strangers." |
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Q5 If you were to dress one person, who would that be?
I'm sure everyone's saying Agyness Dyen at the moment and I've fallen under the spell too! She gets a lot of fashion credit, as she should, but she's also a model so she's exposed to really great design all the time. I would love, love, love if Rachel Bilson, Ashlee Simpson, Kate Bosworth, or Mary Kate Olson wore my designs. These ladies take risks and are far from boring and would look quite lovely in my pieces, if I say so myself!
Q6 Do you have any mentors and if so, who are they?
There's a great program in Chicago called Stitches, which is part of the Chicagoland Entrepreneurial Center, and they are constantly hosting seminars and workshops to help local designers. I wouldn't have had a lot of the opportunities I've had if it wasn't for their program. |
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Q7 What do you offer to consumers different than others?
I've been told that my designs are off the beaten path from most fashion jewelry available. As mentioned, I just really like large, loud, out there pieces.
Q8 Favorite cocktail and where to drink it?
Captain & Diet (Rum & Coke). It never does me wrong. And I prefer it in a dark little corner bar with hardly any people except good friends. |
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Q12 How do you deal with your success?
My main concern is keeping my finances in order. I'm still at the point where even the tiniest of decisions regarding money is very important. As far as exposure, I try to take most of the opportunities I can at this point because it's crucial that I make my presence known in order to start selling in larger markets.
Q13 Would you like to add anything for your fans?
I am in love with everyone who's ever bought a piece from me. Seriously. And I never ever though that a fashion magazine all the way in Japan would be contacting me! I'm just so, so glad that people "get it" and like it and that maybe my design can add a little spring to someone's step. Also, don't ever let anyone tell you that you can't wear something or shouldn't wear something. As long as it fits, just wear it, rock it and tell them to shut up. |
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