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Spotlight on Shoshanna: Designer celebrating a woman’s life through style

posted by ChickSpeak
Monday, March 15, 2010 at 9:03pm CDT

There are not many items that are universal to every woman. Because we come in all different shapes, sizes and backgrounds, it’s difficult to pinpoint one distinct style or look to compliment every lady.

However, some items are absolutely necessary for every woman’s wardrobe: the notorious LBD, a pair of extra-tall high heels, Jackie O-inspired sunglasses, a brightly colored pashima and of course, the Shoshanna dress.

Relaxed, simple to wear, easy to dress down or up and inspired by a New York native whose love of fashion has grown and changed with her life, Shoshanna works to make her pieces great for every woman and the many tranformations of her life.

Her line is loved by Sophia Bush, Katherine Heigl, Kristin Davis, Taylor Swift, Scarlett Johansson, and so many more classy ladies.

The Girls at ChickSpeak also can’t get enough of Shoshanna, and we were lucky enough to have her take the time to discuss her inspirations, lines and plans for the future:

ChickSpeak: You changed fashion with the Shoshanna dress -where did you find your inspiration?

Shoshanna: I was inspired to start my own company out of to my own frustration with fashion. Growing up, I could never find anything age appropriate that would flatter my body. I often looked at fashion like I was in a museum, I could look at all these beautiful things, but nothing would fit me.

Most designers only made clothing for one body type. I saw this as an opportunity to create a line that was inclusive to all body types. I wanted to celebrate a woman and her figure, rather then excluding her.

CS: What influences your fashion the most?

Shoshanna: I’m influenced by my lifestyle and friends. My collection grows with me and my lifestyle. When I first started the collection 12 years ago, I was younger, I went out more. The collection reflected that carefree point of my life. Now, my life is more multi faceted. I’m a mom, a business woman, and I am involved with many charities near to my heart. I still like to have a good time, but my life is more complex. The collection has grown up with me. It’s definitely more sophisticated and refined-but still in a fun way.

CS: When did you fall in love with all-things fashion?

Shoshanna: Growing up in New York exposed me to all kinds of fashion very early on. I’ve always loved everything about it!

CS: If you had to describe your company in three words, what would they be?

Shoshanna: Feminine, celebratory, and attainable.

CS: Other than your own pieces, what designers do you love?

Shoshanna: Vanessa Bruno, Miu Miu, Phillip Lim 3.1, Charlotte Ronson, Jennifer Meyer Jewelery, Nickolas Kirkwood, Solange Azagury Partridge, Isabel Marant, Carolina Herrera, American Apparel, Prada, and Lanvin Jewelry.

CS: What classic items should every chick own in her closet?

Shoshanna: A classic shift dress is something everyone should have- it’s timeless. You can pull it out 10 years from now and still have it look modern. Think of it as a blank canvas-you can dress it up or down depending on where you are going with different jewelry or shoes. A great leather jacket is also something everyone should have in their closet-it pulls a look together and gives a bit of edge to any outfit.

CS: What song do you listen to on repeat on iTunes? What’s the last book you couldn’t put down?

Shoshanna: I listen to James Taylor and Paul Simon a lot, just to relax. I love Jay-Z always. I’m a huge 80’s fan. I LOVE Foreigner, Journey.

The last book I read was When Everything Changed by Gail Collins. It’s the amazing journey of American women from 1960 to the present.

CS: What advice do you have for young women who desire to be part of the fashion industry?

Shoshanna: Follow your gut and listen to your instincts

CS: Are their opportunities for college women or recent grads to become involved with your company?

Shoshanna: Yes, we are always looking for great people to join our team. Please e-mail HR@Shoshanna.com

Lindsay Tigar is the Editor-at-Large for ChickSpeak who first fell in love with Shoshanna while watching America’s Next Top Model. She’s inspired by Shoshanna’s goal to fit every woman’s body, and loves the ultra feminine style.