As a young fashion designer I’m always being asked who or what inspires me. What other designers would I compare myself to? I love releasing myself to new ideas and experiences but I’ve always looked outside of my home state of Texas for such things, until now.  

Recently I have been introduced to Texas’ own Elaine Turner, and I have to say I am loving her! Since settling in Central Texas from exploring Europe with my parents (who are missionaries) in 2011 I had heard whispers of the Elaine Turner but hadn’t thought much of it until now. So, like any good artist I began studying her work, her life, her influence. When I think about her particular style I see all of the places that she’s travelled to and her eye for color and architecture in each item. Having lived in Europe as I child I believe I understand Mrs. Turner’s brain as a designer. When one travels outside of their community to learn and experience new things, their way of thinking changes as a result of their surroundings. There aren’t any creative boundaries for an artist who has travelled.

 

In Elaine Turner’s designs I see the places she’s been. In her Isabella Hibiscus clutch I see the sandy beaches of the Bahamas and the bright exotic flowers that surround it. If it’s one thing I love its color! From

Isabella Hibiscus clutch

Being a missionary’s kid I understand quite well the value of using your resources and supplies and in Elaine Turner’s designs – bags especially – I see a great use of natural resources. When reading about her life found on her website and about how she got her label started I laughed out loud!

“Elaine's first handbag was inspired by raffia, which she was using to re-paper the walls of her Houston home. Jokingly, her husband Jim suggested she cover a handbag in raffia and viola-the Jackie bag that launched her fashion empire was born.”

Jackie Bag

I thought, “How extraordinary and unassuming first beings are!” All it takes is a dream, a little faith, and using what God gives you and making the best of it.

Needless to say, I was extremely excited to hear that the next Created Woman Foundation event would be held at Elaine Turner’s newest boutique in the Round Rock Outlets this June 26^th. Not only do you and your girlfriends get to sip and have a lite bite while you shop in this fabulous new boutique but discounts will be offered and 15% of the proceeds will go to the Created Woman Foundation as well. I don’t know about you, but I am looking forward to this!

Join the party on Facebook!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jade Moffett - Check out Jade's own designs at http://www.jademoffett.com