BHM Featured Artist: Beads In The Belfry

Name: Nina Jackson
Store name: Beads In The Belfry
Website/online presence: http://shopbatty.com

A look behind the scenes:
Ever since I could recall I've been making things…One of my earliest memories is sitting in the living room of my parents' house cutting up frilly socks to make clothes for Barbie. It got so bad that my grandmother started bringing me little frilly girl socks just for that purpose!

So I have pretty much been making art all my life. I like to make all sorts of things but I am focusing right now on jewelry with a focus on wire wrapping and metal smithing. I like the tactile feel of wrapping and bending wire into something that was not there before. Beads In The Belfry is my brainchild to that end. It is the place for those who've gone quite batty for baubles. I make pieces that are more often than not influenced by nature and her organic shapes. Precious metals and semi-precious stones are primarily used in conjunction with wire wrapping techniques. I've just started learning how to solder metal together. Watch out world!

BHM Featured Artist: B So Chic! Designer & Vintage Boutique

Name: Bren Herrera
Store: B So Chic! Designer & Vintage Boutique
Website/online presence: http://www.beesochic.com

A look behind the scenes:
When I was working full-time in DC, I would usually spend my lunch hours shopping and flipping through all my fashion magazines. I had a closet full of unworn pieces that came from major retail chains or couture and designer pieces and accessories. I decided to make money from it! I started selling things on the side and then thought how to cool would it be to have an online boutique doing the same thing. So, I started "buying" for real! I hit every consignment shop, going out of business store, estate sales and smaller boutiques. I would find the coolest and most unique things. I even keep some things for myself--only sometimes!
(clockwise from top: new Tory Burch lucite cuff, new Sascha of London Houndstooth Pump, Vintage, London Fog Cream Trench Coat, circa 1960. Unworn in excellent condition)

I launched B So Chic! in July 2005, just 3 months after I quit my job. I realized I had a knack for finding unique things, both vintage and designer. At www.beesochic.com you will see items like vintage Herme's shoes that are brand new, or a Jackie-O vintage dress. Or how about some 7 For All Mankind jeans and Gucci logo bag priced at 60% less than retail! I carry handbags, accessories, shoe and apparel. This is what B So Chic! is about-- offering women a chic shopping experience that won't break their account! It's about being sexy, chic and frugal, all at the same time!

Through B So Chic! I host monthly trunk shows in the Atlanta area that promotes other local artists and designers. Mostly women, these cool and indie crafters come out in full force with their original works! We have a funky DJ to entertain us, complimentary food, drink specials and most of all, incredible networking. I can't tell you how many of the recurring vendors have benefitted from meeting other women in business! If I can help each of us grow, then I'm happy. I really do love what I do!

BHM Featured Artist: C.B. Herrera Jewelry

Name: Carmen Beatriz
Store: C.B. Herrera Jewelry
Website/online presence: http://www.cbherrera.com

A look behind the scenes:

After many years of running a very successful commercial cleaning business, C.B. Herrera, whose friends know as Betty, turned to relax a bit. She found herself interested in the jewelry her daughters were always coveting. So, to stop dishing out allowances that were satisfying shopping fetishes, Herrera picked up some tools and gems & went to work! "I'm not really inspired as much as I am in love with the peace jewelry designing offers me! A lot of times I get up around 1 a.m. and go to my studio and just start putting my ideas together."

Her pieces are an eclectic, yet fancy fusion of stones, crystals, earthy elements and one of-a-kind pieces she finds along her travels. She loves pretty things and wants to make sure her client is seen that way. A lot of pieces, no matter how earthy, will have a touch of crystal--may not be visible to the on-looker, but it's there! Her line is ever evolving and working toward a distinguishable look. She makes jewelry that any woman will love to wear.

Carmen lives outside Washington, D.C with her husband. She is currently rep'd by her daughter, Bren, in Atlanta, who puts on her designer hat every so often!

BHM Featured Artist: Double Stitch

Name: Erika and Monika Simmons
Store: Double Stitch
Website/online presence: http://doublestitchwear.com (Official website)
http://doublestitch.etsy.com (E-commerce website)
http://myspace.com/doublestitchwear (myspace)

A look behind the scenes:
Double Stitch is the brainchild of the multi talented twin designers Erika and Monika Simmons. This collection of fun and flirty hand crochet apparel has it all - one of a kind construction, a limitless use of color, plush fabrication, silhouettes that flatter all body types and twin designers that demand as much attention as the head turning garments they produce. Since the unofficial launch of the line Christmas 2002, Double Stitch has leaped to the top of the 'ones to watch' list. The concept that started as holiday gift giving created a demand that rapidly expanded into a line of fun and flirtatious designs. The newest line consists of daring, new-age concepts that include dresses, dusters, jackets, skirts, shrugs, hats, scarves, sleeves, apron tops, chokers, and ponchos that transcend fads and seasons.












Double Stitch has developed a far reaching fan base from New York City to Los Angeles. Celebrity vocal fans also include, Jennifer Hudson, Floetry, Kindred the Family Soul Artist, Aja, Common, Eve, and the fabulous Patti LaBelle. Actress Rachel True of UPN's Half & Half, Chelsey Cooley (Miss USA 2005), Abiola Abrams, host of “BET J: The Best Shorts” and reality tv star Lauren of Beauty and the Geek , are all Double Stitch fans.

Their very first book of crochet patterns, entitled Double Stitch: Designs for the Crochet Fashionista, published by Interweave Press, is set to release May 2008.

BHM Featured Artist: Brace Yourself Boutique

Name: Myisha Croom-Turner
Store: Brace Yourself Boutique
Website/Online presence: www.braceyourselfboutique.com (shop)
www.myspace.com/braceyourself74 (blog)

A look behind the scenes:
Hello, My name is Myisha and I am a independent jewelry designer from Southern California. I reside in Fontana which is 50 miles east of Los Angeles. I am employed full time and I also design/create jewelry and participate in local fairs. I am happily married, and a mother of one wonderful 8 year old named Myles. I started my business back in 2000 making bracelets for co-workers and family, and realized how enjoyable it was creating wearable art that people actually loved. With an appreciation for nature and uniqueness, I love creating bracelets that stand out and make a bold statement.....'I am not afraid to be different!' I love creating 'chunky' styled jewelry, and this year I have expanded my collection to include earrings.









In 2007, I created a shopping event/vendor fair for women called Sip n' Shop Girls Night Out. I solicited over 30 business owners to participate. At Sip n' Shop women were able to shop from other women designers, boutique owners, and consultants, sip cocktails, view hourly fashion shows, and listen to neo-soul music spun by a DJ all evening. Due to the success of the event I am currently planning Sip n' Shop Girls Night Out for Spring 2008, and I am seeking handmade crafters, and independent artists in SoCal to participate. For information about this years Sip n' Shop event or to view last years pictures you can go to www.myspace.com/sipandshop.

BHM Featured Artist: Smell Good Spa 1998™

Name: Itiel Mcvay
Store: Smell Goods 1998™
Website/Online presence: http://www.smellgoodspa.com (shop)
http://smellgoodspa.blogspot.com (blog)
Smell Goods '98 Commercial (commercial)

A look behind the scenes:
Specializing in signature fragrance body oil blends, signature hand-dipped incense, and gourmet, made-to-order bath & body products. I focus on creating products that are healthy for the skin, that will condition the skin, and of course products that smell good.

Itiel McVay is the chief operating officer and mixologist of Smell Goods ‘98™. In 1998, after hearing her husband’s idea of becoming purveyors of oils and incense, Itiel moved forward with the idea and has made the creative side of the product line what it is today. Over the years Itiel has honed her bath and body knowledge and creative skills. Itiel stays abreast on the latest cosmetic trends, body care treatments, and the pros and cons of cosmetic ingredients.

From l. to r.: 4 in 1 - Almond Whipped Cream Scrub, Rub Down multi use oil and Chai Soap (vegan friendly!)




Itiel is also an active member of online crafting communities and online indie business communities. Since childhood, Itiel’s life has centered around a healthy way of living. Mixing up goodness for beautiful conditioned skin and educating others about the Smell Goods ’98’s™ line, comes naturally to Itiel. Itiel’s creative inspiration comes from gourmet desserts and gourmet beverages.

Itiel is a home-school mother and resides in Charlotte, with her husband and their two children.

Smell Good Spa is currently celebrating its 10 year anniversary with a “Don't Be Ordinary 48 HR
Sale!” tonight, Thursday, February 7th at 12 am through Saturday, February 9th to 12 am. The entire site is 45% off! No redemption codes needed, just simply shop your hearts content.

BHM Featured Artist: La Vonne’s Knot Just Knits

Name: Angela Best
Business name: La Vonne’s Knot Just Knits
Website/online presence: http://lavonneknotjustknits.com (shop)
Blog: http://lavonneknotjustknits.com/blog/ and
http://crohooker.livejournal.com/

A look behind the scenes:
Toronto, Canada based designer of Crochet/Knitted Fashion Wearables was born in England then migrated at an early age to Canada. Crocheting and knitting have always been a very important part of her life. Angela taught herself to crochet and knit which meant she had no preconceived ideas and therefore let her work focus on the exciting use of color, unusual construction approaches and simple yet elegant garment shape. Her love of the unusual is evident in her dramatic fashion pieces of crochet, knit or the latest art called “mix” which combines both knit and crochet in a single garment.

Angela was busy running Toronto’s Shelly’s Yarns for 6 years, designing for several local yarn manufacturers, along with selling her crochet designs from her website La Vonne’s Knot Just Knits, http://lavonneknotjustknits.com. Not only did she teach knitting and crocheting at the shop, she is also an expert finisher and with her keen eye and artistic sense excelled at helping customers pick out color and texture combination for their creations or custom designs.

The former and second President of Toronto’s Downtown Knit Collective knitting guild, she was affectionately know as the crochet queen, she is also a member of the Toronto Hookups Crochet Guild. Angela loves to keep busy with pattern designs, teaching and publications for the crocheter/knitter who is searching for something different. She is a walking encyclopaedia of crochet knowledge and takes great pleasure in sharing her knowledge and creativity as she works with hooks, needles, and yarns. All of these experiences have given Angela a great appreciation for the importance of clearly written instructions. When asked if she can knit or crochet she answers. “Yea kinda” then “I’ve designed everything from bikinis to wedding dresses and then some”. Her designs have been featured in many newspaper articles and yarn companies for many years.

BHM Featured Artist: Uzuri Designs

Name: Sharonda Crome
Business Name: Uzuri Designs
Website Name: www.UzuriDesigns.net, www.uzuri.etsy.com



A look behind the scenes:
Who am I: Sharonda Crome a Wife, a mother of 3 great children and a self taught jewelry designer.
I design unusual handcrafted beaded and fine silver jewelry using a mix of gemstones, wire, and my new medium silver art clay. After being introduced to jewelry making by a friend, I found that I was absolutely in love! I love combining unique colors and shapes and mixing stones to create fabulous pieces of jewelry

BHM Featured Artist: Abelee's Handcrafted Jewelry

Name: Lee Weal

Store Name: Abelee's Handcrafted Jewelry - a FivetonineDesign Production

Website/online presence:

http://www.fivetoninedesign.com (shop)

http://fivetoninedesign.blogspot.com (blog)

A look behind the scenes:
Executive assistant by day, sister with a crafty soul by night. I've always been involved with some sort of art or craft. Growing up, my brother and I spent most of our allowance on crayons and construction or tracing paper. I knitted little sweaters and sewed little dresses for my Barbie Dolls, and much later, made some of my maternity clothes and some of my baby daughter's clothing as well (some 28 years ago!). I haven't left the house with naked ears since I was 12. Sporting a small afro and a fairly flat chest at the time, I wanted to make sure people knew I was a girl so I wore the biggest hoops I could find. :-) I started making earrings early last spring and fell in love with the craft. I have no formal training; I just make what I like to wear and what I think others will enjoy as well.

Black History Month

Hi all!
February, Black History month is here and since 2008 is a leap here there is a extra day to the usual 28. To honor Black History Month, Style Conspiracy will be spotlighting a designer/crafter/artist of African decent each day.

Hopefully this will generate buzz across the internet about artisans of African descent within the indie movement. Please feel free to pass along the word about Style Conspiracy and about the spotlights on your own blogs, sites and such.

If you are interested in possibly being featured, please send the following information to styleconspiracy [at] comcast.net:

Your real name
Your store name (or the name your art is produced under)
Website/online presence address (include http:// )
A brief description of who you are, what you do, and why you do what you do.
3 photos or links to photos of work you are most proud of and would like featured with a brief description of them (PLEASE do not send huge files. Scale them back to under 1000 pixels).

I will contact each person who will be featured and let you know what day you will be featured.

Everybody's Working for The Weekend [Store]

Up at the Renegade Craft Fair, Brooklyn last June, I had the honor of meeting Oakland, California designer Adjowah Brodie of The Weekend Store. She was one of the RCM booth neighbors, so we chatted a bit and I got to oogle her wonderful jewelry up close.

Her jewelry collection features old school typewriter keys, which I love! Does anyone else besides me remember typing on type writers and having to retype a whole page because of all the liquid paper spots? Smith Corona, anyone? (And no, I'm not that old!)
You can pick your keys to personalize, which is so great for gifts.

In addition to running The Weekend Store full time, Adjowah is also one of the organizers of Maven: Urban Design + Craft Fair in San Francisco, California.

What a cute girl...

Mignonette (cute girl in French) delivers just the right dress that will have you feeling like "the cute girl" in the room this summer. Handmade in Brooklyn, NY and with a newly revamped website, designer Kpoene' Kofi-Bruce offers lovely flattering dresses in sizes 2 to 16 and showcased by real bodied models.
Check out the sweet pockets on the waitress dress. Love it!!

Cecilia, you're breaking my heart...

Just like the old Simon and Garfunkel song goes, Cecilia Jane designer Simonair (si`-mo-naire) is breaking my heart ( in a good way!) with her wonderful designs. A St. Thomas Virgin Islands native, she is based out of North Carolina where she creates her eclectic womenswear, handbags and accessories.














Her winged leather tote and "The Pocket" pouch are just 2 of my favorites. Be sure and browse her site and check out her newly launched Spring clothing line.

Stylistic Stitchery

Since being a full time indie designer is pretty solitary, attending and selling at craft shows is one of the few opportunities to meet face to face fellow artists with indie businesses. This past weekend I had the opportunity to meet designer and seamstress, Artina Slaughter at the Spring Bada-Bing craft show. Her business Mashulu, which means stitches in Swahili, features her stylish designs of handbags and fashion accessories.


My favorites from her collection are the "Bones n' Roses" and "Fi-Fi" bags. I wonder where she found that pink paisley fabric? Love it! :-)

All the right elements...

Collective Elements is an online boutique celebrating independent style and designs. Quality handmade products from home decor to fashion accessories and bath/beauty items can be found there. Owner and stationary designer, Danielle L. Green's shop motto is "Never trendy...always indie!" and it shows through her diverse lineup of indie designers and artists showcased.

Bracelet by Denise Downward and note card by Danielle L. Green, available at Collective Elements.

Why Style Conspiracy

People of color have a long history of grass roots businesses and entrepreneurship, but I seem to only hear about these businesses after they have become well-known, bought up by mega conglomerates or have sadly gone out of business.
So, the goal for Style Conspiracy is to get the word out about cool indie designers, crafters and artists of color.
Showcasing indie style in full color!