Erebelle

Meet Erika Kingsbury

Erika Kingsbury is Erebelle's chief designer. She's a native Texan and graduated from the University of Texas with a BS in apparel design. She began her career as an intern at Erebelle.

WHEN DID YOU REALIZE YOU WANTED TO BE A FASHION DESIGNER?

At a young age. I have memories when I was 6 or 7 going to my grandmother's house with my mom and my sister and watching as my grandmother made outfits for us. I loved going to the fabric store and picking out fabrics and ribbons. My mother was the queen of bows. She would make these perfectly beautiful bows for our outfits. They weren't too matchy-matchy, just nicely coordinated. It wasn't long before I wanted to help. My grandmother began teaching me the basics of sewing. She had me start by sewing pillows, mostly small ones for my dolls. It was easy enough, just four seams, but it taught me how to sew a straight seam. If anyone needed a pillow for her doll, I was your girl.

My interest in fashion carried on. I attended a private, catholic high school. We had to wear uniforms. They were plaid, navy or grey skirts with oxford button down shirts. It wasn't horrible but it wasn't long before I was tired of looking like every other girl on campus. So, I did my best to accessorize and make my own style. I would wear knee-high socks in bold patterns like stripes, plaid or argyle with Van's tennis shoes or black Mary Janes. I loved shopping in the men's sock department. I hated the idea of showing up at prom or homecoming wearing a dress that even slightly resembled anyone else's. So, I designed my own. By the time I graduated, I loved fashion.

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR APPROACH TO DESIGN?

There's a vibe in fashion you become aware of -- a consensus about trends. So, the current mood inspires me. However, I also go through my own fashion moods, which can be inspired by a historical era or just people on the street. When I see someone on the street with a cool or unique style, I make a mental note.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE COLORS?

I am constantly researching color trends. Trends evolve slowly over time, one season to the next. Trends are driven by a certain public taste that is seen, not only in fashion, but all over -- from car colors to the color of furniture. In 2008, the trend is saturated color. People are drawn to these rich hues, which are a break from the white, pale color trend of a few years ago. I also draw inspiration from outside sources that get my attention.

NAME A DESIGNER YOU ADMIRE.

I really admire the work of Stella McCartney. She has a simple, yet chic style that is reflected in her contemporary and fitness collections. I love designs that look easy yet fashionable. I draw much of my inspiration from this same idea of easy and chic. Every woman wants to look stylish without all the fuss.

FAVORITE WEBSITES YOU CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT?

I love Style.com. I enjoy reading up on trends, beauty tips and, my favorite, runway collections. Style.com always has the latest collections posted on their site right after Fashion Week.

THE MOST BELOVED ITEM IN YOUR WARDROBE?

Oh, that's hard! I have so many favorites but one in particular would have to be a great, comfy pair of jeans. I have many but my favorites right now would have to be my Genetic Denim. They are probably the softest, most comfortable jeans ever! I have a pretty relaxed and casual lifestyle and nothing is easier than a great pair of jeans with a tank, tee or sweater.

THE ULTIMATE ACCESSORY IS ...

I love accessories. Period. Accessories make an outfit. They can take you from casually dressed down to all dolled-up, with the same outfit. Your choice of handbag, shoes and jewelry (or lack there of) can say a lot about you or your mood. They can show that you're feeling funky, elegant or simple and classic. Accessories allow you to get more than one look from the same outfit.

LEAST FAVORITE FASHION TREND OF ALL TIME:

Shoulder pads! This fashion trend should never be reborn. Who thought the linebacker look was sexy on women? As if the big hair wasn't enough, we had to have the big shoulder thing going on, too. No thanks. I prefer the natural look. Also, the world would have been fine without the MC Hammer pants. The extra volume at the hips, tapered ankles and crotch down to the knees� not flattering, for men or women. Especially not in those jazzy metallic fabrics. Ughh.

HOW ABOUT A CELEBRITY WHOSE STYLE YOU ADMIRE?

I really like Sienna Miller's personal style. Her outfits always look fashionable but comfortable and easy -- like she didn't over-think them. Her style is uncomplicated punctuated with a certain quirkiness.