1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

-My name is Mallory, I’m a 21 year old fashion design student. I blog over at Mallory Makes Things. I’m obsessed with vintage design, color, and bold prints.

2. What got you interested in blogging, and how long have you been blogging for?

-I started my blog after watching Julie & Julia for the first time in August 2009. That seems so ridiculous, but I needed a creative outlet that would get me away from the stresses of school. Little did I know that it would help me find a way to connect with other fashion and vintage lovers. I don’t think I started finding my blogging voice until last summer, though.

3. Can you tell us about your style?

-My style… hmm… some people may call it crazy. I prefer to call it bold, eclectic, and vintage inspired. I truly wear whatever I feel like even if it seems insane. My motto is: If you act like you’re pulling it off, then you are.

4. You’re a part of the amazing Red Velvet team who has been designing and sewing up the new Red Velvet line that is set to launch September 1st! What has been your favorite thing about this whole experience, and what is your most favorite garment that you’ve made for the Spring or Fall line?

-I think my favorite part of working with Red Velvet has been learning so much. This has been a year of self-discovery for me. This winter I made a whole dress line with my own two hands for one of my role models, Elsie. Beforehand I thought I would collapse from the pressure, but I made it out alive and ecstatic. Now I’m doing it with a team, which is great because and I’m getting to partner with and teach the other interns. I feel like the experience here has made me certain that I’ve found my own place in the fashion world. Elsie and Emma (and the whole team) have done a lot to help me feel like I can make my own dreams come true. They are incredibly supportive and encouraging.

My favorite garment is a really tough one. I am bad at choosing favorites, but from the spring probably the Record Store Jumper and this fall the Flower Shop Dress.

5. What are your favorite trends for fall?

– really excited that high waist bell-bottoms are making a comeback! Unexpected color and pattern mixing always gets me, so I am delighted that more designers and fashionistas are trying it out for this fall.

6. When you’re not busy blogging, what can you be found doing?

-When I’m taking classes my favorite thing to do is nap because sleep is hard to come by. Other than that I love going thrifting and to the record store with my boyfriend. I really enjoy my mom’s cooking, and hanging out with family and friends. In my alone time you can find me internet shopping, fashion drawing, or watercolor painting.

7. With regards to fashion, what do you draw inspiration from?

-I find most of my inspiration in artwork, photographs, music, and those beautiful moments that sneak into everyday life. My favorite designers/brands include Kate Spade, Orla Kiely, and Dior.

8. If you had to pick one outfit to wear the rest of your life, what would it look like?

-High waist jean shorts, a vintage scarf for my hair, a white V neck t-shirt I stole from Brian, and my Darlingtonia mocassins.

9. You’re a fashion design student who is well on her way to making a serious name for yourself (jump starting two collections of clothing is amazing in my book) How has being a fashion design student affected the way you think about fashion, and how has it affected the way you dress, if so?

-College for fashion and growing up in general has changed everything about the way I view all design. In high school I tried to blend in a little too much. I’ve always liked vintage and bold fashion statements but I was afraid. Now, my teachers really encourage us to find our unique style and begin to brand ourselves. I’ve started to dress and design exactly how I want to because of it. Being yourself, even if it makes your stand out, is easy when everyone is telling you that it’s important to do so. We also do a lot of trend forecasting in our design processes. When you do that much research it comes natural to evolve with the trends. I don’t feel as mystified as I used to. The fashion industry holds a LOT of surprises until you do some digging and learning.

10. Do you have any advice for aspiring fashion designers? What about for someone interested in learning how to sew clothing, but really doesn’t know where to start?

-It’s a competitive field, but you can make it if you’re prepared and determined. Do some research and go to a good school. Graduating knowing who you are and with experience and a full set of skills will make all the difference. Whether you want a corporate job or to start your own line I think school is a good idea. I go to the University of Cincinnati and it’s a tough program, but it’s worth it. I will graduate with 6 internships on my resume!

If you want to learn how to sew clothes for yourself start with Elsie and I’s DIY Dress Up E-course. Not everything will be perfect right away, sewing is a skill that you can hone with practice.

Thank you SO much for doing this interview, Mallory! Be sure to check out Mallory’s blog, and also keep an eye out for the new Red Velvet line that is set to launch September 1st!

-Chelsea XO