Meet the Makers: Hadithi Basket Weavers of Tsavo, Kenya Preserving Tradition and Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Fashion Have you ever wondered who made the clothes and fashion accessories you wear every day? In our Meet the Makers series, we take a closer look at the people behind the fashion industry, their traditions, and their communities. Today, we feature the Hadithi Basket Weavers of Tsavo, Kenya. This group of women has been weaving baskets for generations, using traditional techniques and locally sourced materials. In Tsavo, where transportation is often limited and expensive, the basket weaving trade provides a vital source of income for families. The women work together, sharing their skills and knowledge, and supporting each other in times of need. "We help each other. I learned from my grandma how to use a basket," says Hilda, one of the basket weavers. "When it comes from the sisal, it is very green, so you want it to come white. You must use a stick to clean it." The baskets made by the Hadithi Basket Weavers are not only beautiful but also sustainable. They are made from sisal, a type of agave plant that grows abundantly in the area, and dyed with natural materials like tea or coffee. By using locally sourced and biodegradable materials, the weavers are reducing their environmental impact and preserving their cultural heritage. The baskets are so well-crafted that they are being used all over the world, and the weavers are proud of their creations. "When you go to my group, you will see wonders. Taitas like to sing. You'll dance if you like or not. You know it is a passion," says Hilda. We hope you enjoyed getting to know the Hadithi Basket Weavers as much as we did. Stay tuned for more stories from the people behind your favorite fashion items. To learn more about their partnerships & process, visit the main website here Thanks for checking out our maker's stories- Do you know a maker to be featured? Let us know! Know someone who would like this article? Please share! Subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the know and see all our featured makers, along with industry insights & inspirations! Want to find a supportive fashion design community? We invite you to join us! Visit: www.insider.insidefashiondesign.com to see what we are all about!

In today’s, Meet The Makers Series, Inside Fashion Design shares a story about The Swahili Tradition of Dhow Sailing and how a community upcycled the old sails into fashionable bags for designers such as Vivienne Westwood. From the Coast to the Artisan Workshop: The Journey of a Dhow Sail The Kenyan coast is known for its vibrant culture and traditions, and one of the most iconic symbols of this culture is the dhow. Used mainly by communities living along the coast, the dhow (pronounced daw) is a type of sailing vessel that has been used for centuries to transport goods and people across the Indian Ocean. "At Artisan Fashion, we have found a unique way to preserve this Swahili tradition and promote sustainability through dhow sail upcycling. Godfrey Wanjama, our sourcing manager, explains, "I love working with dhow sail bags because it keeps the Swahili tradition alive. It's a long journey. Have to take a train, a piki-piki, collect the dhow sails, then go back to the Artisan Fashion. It is special because we use lots of recycled materials. There is that integration of different people which brings communities together.” www.artisanfashion.com Artisan Fashion: Preserving Tradition and Promoting Sustainability The journey of a dhow sail from the coast to the Artisan workshop is a fascinating one. The sails are collected from the dhow owners, who are often fishermen and sailors themselves. These sails are then transported to the workshop, where they are cleaned, cut, and sewn into beautiful bags and accessories. Dhow Sail Upcycling: An Integration of People and Communities At Artisan Fashion, we believe in preserving tradition and promoting sustainability. By upcycling dhow sails and using recycled materials, we are reducing waste and creating unique, one-of-a-kind products that celebrate the rich culture of the Swahili coast. But Dhow Sail upcycling is not just about sustainability. It is also about integrating people and communities. By working with dhow owners and local artisans, we are creating opportunities for people to come together, share their skills and knowledge, and build a stronger, more connected community. From Vivienne Westwood's blog: MADE IN KENYA – THE JOURNEY CONTINUES. Read the full article here 11.03.2022 - WADMIN Each collection calls for diligence. An affinity towards the craft — but also to its people. In prolonging our engagement with local producers from marginalized Kenyan communities, our ‘Made in Kenya’ collections hold a significant place within the Westwood ethos. With the collaboration of the Ethical Fashion Initiative (EFI), methods of sustainable manufacturing have been used to not only create premium products but ensure dignified work for skilled women, men, and communities. “We are doing this for the love of humanity,” explains Vincent Oduor, Program Management Officer for Ethical Fashion Initiative. “Because every human deserves a better job, a better life, and enjoyment — to live as a human being.” Join the movement towards sustainable & ethical fashion by learning about artisan communities and makers around the world. IFD shares stories of Micro to SMEs so that we can support artisan makers and communities of people who are preserving tradition and promoting sustainability. Together, we can "sail" towards a better future. Thanks for checking out our maker's stories- Do you know a maker to be featured? Let us know! Know someone who would like this article? Please share! Subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the know and see all our featured makers, along with industry insights & inspirations! Check out our Free Fashion Industry Community Want to find a supportive fashion design community? We invite you to join us! Visit: www.insider.insidefashiondesign.com to see what we are all about!

Introduction: Creating a stunning color palette for fashion designers can be the defining element that breathes life into their creations. The careful selection and combination of colors can evoke emotions, set trends, and establish a brand's identity. In this How To, we will explore the art of building a color palette that will elevate your fashion designs to new heights. When starting to build your color palette, we will assume that you already have Design Direction or a Design Brief, so that you have that in mind when building your palette. This could be from your team, your client, or from your own work. Seek Inspiration: Start your color palette journey by seeking inspiration from various sources. Look to nature, art, architecture, and everyday objects for ideas. Explore color trends, runway shows, and fashion magazines. Immerse yourself in a world of color to spark your creativity and find unique combinations. Understand Color Theory: Familiarize yourself with the basics of color theory. Learn about the color wheel, primary, secondary, and tertiary colors, and concepts like complementary, analogous, and monochromatic schemes. Understanding these principles will help you create harmonious and visually appealing palettes. Define Your Palette's Purpose: Consider the message and mood you want to convey through your fashion collection. Are you seeking a vibrant, energetic vibe or a more subdued, elegant feel? Define your palette's purpose to guide your color selection. Remember, different colors evoke different emotions, so choose wisely. Start with a Foundation: Build your palette with a few core colors to serve as the foundation. These are usually neutral or versatile hues that anchor your designs and allow other colors to shine. Classic colors like black, white, beige, or navy are timeless choices that complement a wide range of shades. Think about who you are selling your collection to; is it a retailer? A wholesaler? Online? If a retailer, think about they will merchandise colors together or how many "arms" on a rack or wall they will allocate to your brand- they may only get 3 styles in a few colors, so what will be your main colors that will be their best sellers? If you are working several colors into a print, what will be the base colors that they coordinate with? Make sure to include colors that can mix & match and work back to your solid core colors. Explore Color Relationships: Experiment with different color relationships to achieve balance and depth in your palette. Complementary colors, located opposite each other on the color wheel, (check out this free color wheel generator) create bold contrasts. Analogous colors, found adjacent to each other, provide a harmonious and cohesive look. Triadic or tetradic schemes offer vibrant combinations for a dynamic impact. Consider Color Psychology: Colors have a profound impact on human psychology. Research the emotional associations (read our color theory blog to learn about emotions) tied to various shades and consider how they align with your fashion collection's intended message. For example, blue conveys calmness and stability, while red exudes passion and energy. Use this knowledge to evoke specific emotions in your designs. Test and Refine: As you build your palette, test the colors in different combinations and contexts. Experiment with various fabric swatches, sketch designs, or even create digital mock-ups. Continually refine your palette by eliminating or adding colors until you achieve a harmonious balance that aligns with your vision. Check out Coolors; a free online color palette generator- its pretty slick! Creating a captivating color palette is a crucial skill for fashion designers. By seeking inspiration, understanding color theory, defining your palette's purpose, and exploring color relationships, you can build a stunning palette that brings your fashion designs to life. Remember, colors can captivate and inspire, so embrace the art of color selection and let your creativity shine on the runway.

Ingredients from Nature In the city of Kabul, Afghanistan, a family of artisans keeps the ancient tradition of natural fabric dyeing for textiles alive. Saleh Mohammad, a natural dyer with a deep-rooted love for his craft, shares his story and the process behind creating vibrant and sustainable textiles. Saleh Mohammad left Afghanistan for six years, seeking knowledge and expertise in silk dyeing and weaving. He honed his skills in neighboring Pakistan, immersing himself in textile creation. Today, he leads a team of dedicated artisans who work diligently to produce exquisite textiles using traditional techniques. The weaving process starts with carefully selecting four types of yarn, each with unique characteristics. These yarns form the foundation for the textiles, providing rich colors that are achieved through natural dyes. Sustainable Practices: Harnessing the Power of Natural Dyes and Traditional Techniques One of their work's fundamental principles is using natural dyes sourced exclusively from Afghanistan. The rich and diverse flora of the region provides an abundant palette of colors. Plants, roots, and other raw materials are meticulously collected and processed to extract their vibrant pigments. This sustainable approach preserves the environment and ensures that each piece embodies natural beauty. The dyed yarns are carefully dried in the shade to achieve the desired hues & allowing the colors to deepen and set. Once dried, the threads are gently reeled onto spindles, ready to be transformed by the skilled hands of the weavers. The weavers, also part of Saleh Mohammad's family, bring the yarns to life, then get meticulously crafted into beautiful clothes and scarves. This family-based enterprise is a testament to the power of collaboration and heritage preservation. By working together, they sustain their livelihood and uphold the rich cultural legacy of Afghan traditions. Through their skill & craftsmanship, Saleh Mohammad and his team embody the spirit of sustainability. They achieve the beauty of natural dyes, honor traditional techniques, and contribute to the global movement toward more sustainable practices in the fashion industry. Their creations contribute to garments with stories woven with care, passion, and a deep appreciation for their Afghan roots. Example of Textiles dyed with Madder: (Rubia tinctorum) is one of the oldest and most frequently used traditional dyestuffs known to man. It has an extensive history in Turkey, India, and Iran. There, it is still being used for dyeing knotted and woven carpets. The secret for Turkey red, a deep rich red color, was guarded for centuries throughout Central Asia. In addition, it involved more than twenty steps to create this prized shade. Want to learn more about textile dying with ingredients from nature? check out more recommended reading: BotanicalColors.com Botanical Colors Dyehouse: If you are a designer or brand looking for natural dye solutions, we would be happy to discuss your needs. We specialize in natural dyes derived from plants, roots, bark, and other natural materials that are GOTS (organically) certified. We provide garment and short-length piece dyeing scalable from small to high-volume runs. The colors are earthy, brilliant, and non-toxic and meet standard light and wash tests. Dekel Dyes; Suzanne Dekel Deke Dyes offers a supply store for natural dyes, mordants, and blank fabrics and ships materials to a worldwide audience of artists and hobby dyers. ​The DekelDyes Research Lab consults museums, dye factories, and the high-tech food- and textile industry in best practices, technical solutions, and problem-solving. We often host textile and design student groups to teach and inspire about natural dyeing and printing. ​The DekelDyes Studio is where we dye and print commissions for artists and clients. Workshops in Israel usually take place here. Recommended Reading: Natural Color: Vibrant Plant Dye Projects for Your Home and Wardrobe "Organized by season, Natural Color is a beautifully photographed guide to the full range of plant dyes available, drawn from commonly found fruits, flowers, trees, and herbs, with accompanying projects. Using sustainable methods and artisanal techniques, designer, artist, and professor Sasha Duerr details achievable ways to apply these limitless color possibilities to your home and wardrobe. Whether you are new to dyeing or more practiced, Duerr's clear and simple ingredients lists, step-by-step instructions, and detailed breakouts on techniques such as shibori, dip-dye, and block printing will ensure beautiful results. With recipes to dye everything from dresses and sweaters to rugs and napkins, Natural Color will inspire fashion enthusiasts, home decorators, textile lovers, and everyone else who wants to bring more color into their life." from Amazon.com The Wild Dyer: A Makers Guide to Natural Dyes with Projects to Create and Stitch: Natural dyes are colors and pigments that are derived from plants and minerals. They teach us the value of color and how to work sparingly and be mindful of our consumption of water and energy, and fabrics colored with natural dyes have a beauty and subtlety all their own. Nature’s bounty like onion and avocado skins, chamomile and birch bark, and nettles and acorns can produce lovely, ethereal colors and effects. The Wild Dyer demystifies the eco-conscious art and craft of natural dyeing, comprehensively covering topics such as: Foraging and growing dying materials Repurposing kitchen trimmings Making and using long-lasting dyes Creating stitched projects Workspace setup and equipment Fabric choices and care Beautiful accompanying photographs and easy-to-follow instructions also illustrate how to make eight exquisite household items, from a drawstring bag to a gardener's smock to a reversible patchwork blanket, and more. The Wild Dyer is a complete guide for both beginners and experienced artists seeking to expand their knowledge of this increasingly popular craft. Natural Palettes: Inspiration from Plant-Based Color “The plant-lovers alternative to the Pantone color guide.”—Julia Sherman, creator of Salad for President Renowned natural dyer, artist, and educator Sasha Duerr envision a new age of fresh, modern color palettes, drawing from our original source of inspiration and ingredients—the natural world around us. This innovative plant-based color guide includes twenty-five palettes with five hundred natural color swatches, providing a bounty of ideas for sustainable fashion, textiles, fine art, floral design, food, medicine, gardening, interior design, and other creative disciplines. Bring the healing power of forest bathing into your home with a palette of spruce cones, pine needles, and balsam branches. Move past Pantone and embrace the natural balance of a pollinator palette with Hopi sunflower, red poppy, echinacea, and scabiosa. Wild Color, Revised and Updated Edition: The Complete Guide to Making and Using Natural Dyes A practical and inspiring guide to creating and using natural dyes from plants, Wild Color, Revised and Updated Edition, offers the latest information on current environmentally friendly dyeing techniques and more than 65 species of plants and natural dyestuffs. This comprehensive book outlines all the necessary equipment, how to select fibers and plant parts, choose the right methods for mordanting and dyeing, test color modifiers and the fastness of dyed colors, and obtain a range of gorgeous colors from every plant, from alter to woad, shown in more than Back in 2019, we hosted a Wine and Dye event for Portland Textile Month. We had a great time stirring, mixing, and dipping linens in vats of dyes made from bark and pine needles. Kerry Cotter of Belmont Blankets uses natural dying in his products and showed us the ropes! Included is a downloadable recipe for DIY Fabric Dying from the event! Do you have a favorite resource or how-to for natural fabric dying or have tried it yourself? Let us know- we would love to hear. Also, we dug around looking for a resource for textiles from Afghanistan and had no luck- if you know of a resource let us know so we can help support it! Thanks for reading today! Have other suggestions or questions? Reach out to let us know design@insidefashiondesign.net Have you found a supportive online community yet? We invite you! Free and open to all those interested in connecting, gaining insights and inspirations and joining us to make a positive impact in the fashion industry. Know someone who would like this article? Please share! This article contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase through the links in this article, you will be helping support our work here at Inside Fashion Design. This is at no extra cost to you. We appreciate your support! .

Today's Friday Feature is the brand YesAND. Here at Inside Fashion Design, we like to seek out fashion brands with sustainable and ethical practices. I discovered Marci Zaroff a while back and ordered a few pieces, which have become my favorite comfort staples in my wardrobe. Where it all Began: Marci has spent the past three decades working with a close-knit team of Indian farmers, mills, and collaborators. Her vision for YesAnd was born from the deep love she has for India and the family of co-creators that she has built there over time. Marci Zaroff has been revolutionizing fashion since the 1990s when she coined and trademarked the word “ecofashion.” Like many of us, she had an “a-ha” moment when she realized that the fashion world was largely excluded from sustainability conversations. YesAnd is her vision-- bringing together both style and sustainability so we can all wear the change we wish to see. Some styles by YesAnd Sustainable Brand How they do it: Proud of Doing the Right Thing "At YesAnd, we believe business not only has the ability to be a part of environmental solutions, but also a moral responsibility to address them." YesAnd GOTS certified We certify our organic cotton products through the Global Organic Textile Standard, which evaluates the entire supply chain. Low impact dyes We use inks that are free of harmful chemicals. That means no chlorine bleach, acetone, formaldehyde, or heavy metals. Fair labor Our supply chain follows stringent labor standards, including payment of a living wage, safe working conditions, and absolutely no child labor. One for one We offset some of our carbon impacts by planting a mangrove tree for every order, the best and most efficient variety of trees for climate change mitigation. Learn more about Marci and how her fashion brand is making a positive impact! Explore the collection and consider supporting the brand to keep her good work going. Visit the shop here to view the full offerings. Thanks for reading today and supporting Ethical and Sustainable Brands! This article contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase through the links in this article, I will make a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you.

Hello Dear Reader, Today marks the 6th Anniversary of my SCAD heart attack. SCAD is a type of heart attack I had never heard of until it happened to me. I am sharing this story with you to build awareness and share resources to gain an understanding of the signs and symptoms as this could happen to you or someone you know. It all started with these mysterious chest pains that plagued me for several years. I went to countless doctors, desperately seeking answers, but none could provide a diagnosis. It was frustrating, to say the least. One day, on my way to a cardiologist appointment, something scary happened. As I parked my car at the hospital and started walking towards the building, I suddenly had to stop. I couldn't breathe, and the pain in my chest was unbearable. I doubted making it even into the building—should I head to the emergency room instead? But I managed to gather myself and made it inside. When I described what had happened to the doctor, he thought it might be Pericarditis; (swelling and irritation of the thin, saclike tissue surrounding the heart (pericardium). Pericarditis often causes sharp chest pain. Chest pain occurs when the irritated layers of the pericardium rub against each other. Pericarditis is usually mild and goes away without treatment.—a condition involving inflammation around the heart.) Wikipedia But the truth is, he didn't know for sure. He suggested I take ibuprofen to reduce the inflammation and said I should feel better within a few weeks. Little did I know that those weeks would turn into three long years of endless pain and frustration. No one seemed to take me seriously due to my general good health. I went through numerous medical tests in search of answers. I did sleep studies, wore a heart monitor for 30 days, and even got an Oximeter to measure my heart rate and oxygen levels. Yet, all the results came back inconclusive. The pain persisted, taking a toll on me physically and emotionally. There were days when the pain was so intense that I couldn't even drive. I'd be on my way to work, and suddenly, I'd feel this crushing pressure in my chest, forcing me to pull over, wondering if I should call 911, or continue driving to work. Walking any distance became a challenge, leaving me breathless and exhausted. Even during bedtime, as I lay down, it often felt like an elephant was sitting on my chest, making sleep elusive. Living with this constant pain caused great anxiety and affected my daily life. I struggled to focus in meetings, and simple tasks became overwhelming. The fatigue and low energy levels made it difficult to get through workdays. It felt like my body was betraying me, and I couldn't find relief. It wasn't until later that I learned about a condition called Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD). SCAD is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition where a tear forms in one or more coronary arteries, disrupting blood flow to the heart. It can present itself in various ways and is often misdiagnosed or overlooked. The Hidden Heart Attack: What is SCAD One day while I was working, feeling relatively normal when suddenly, I felt an excruciating pain in my neck that went up to my jaw. It was familiar, but this time, it was much more intense. I started sweating, and the pain became unbearable. I took some baby aspirin, hoping it would provide relief, but the pain persisted and decided to call 911. The fire department arrived first and quickly gave me an EKG, and realized the severity of the situation. The results surprised them, and they rushed me to the hospital. Everything after that became a blur. I found myself being rushed into the operating room. It was a flurry of activity. The surgeon explained they would perform an endoscopy to explore the issue and possibly put a stent in my heart. Only afterward did I realize I had suffered a heart attack—a shocking revelation that left me in tears. For more SCAD Information, visit https://www.scadresearch.org The road to recovery hasn't been easy. I faced more pain, battled side effects from medication, and underwent months of cardio rehab. Even simple tasks like walking were still a challenge. Fatigue persisted, and it felt like an uphill battle to regain my strength. The Facebook group I now belonged to, kept encouraging me, saying this was my "new normal" and eventually I would learn to live with it and things would get better. I am fortunate that I was able to be seen at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota and the leading SCAD research group. Dr. Sharonne Hayes is leading the way in SCAD research, which I am now a patient and included in their on going studies, Dr. Sharonne Hayes is the lead SCAD researcher at Mayo Clinic- to learn more about her research and latest findings, visit: https://www.scadresearch.org Today, as I reflect on my journey I know I have come a long way. I feel better than I have in a long time. The chest pain and pressure still linger, very often being heartburn due to past medication side effects. But I've learned to listen to my body, recognize warning signs, and seek help when in doubt. I believe I have been back to the emergency room about 8 times since my heart attack- the Drs continually tell me it's better to be safe and get checked when symptoms arise- than to be sorry. I found a Facebook group of SCAD survivors, which became my support group- I am grateful for the women I connected with there as one of the best ways to get through life's challenges is to find a supportive community that understands what you are going through. I was fortunate to be referred to Mayo Clinic and Dr. Sharonne Hayes and the SCAD Survivor Facebook Group. Each year they host a series of SCADADDLES, an annual 5K, and talks featuring the latest research & findings. Read Donna's story and how she launched her business to support SCAD research: SCAD: How One Survivor is Healing Through a Love of Jewelry Design Solsiss Jewelry Shop I want to encourage everyone, especially women, to trust their instincts and never hesitate to seek medical attention if unsure about unusual symptoms. SCAD is a silent threat, often presenting itself in atypical ways. Don't ignore those signs or let anyone dismiss your concerns. Your health is worth fighting for, and you deserve answers. Understanding SCAD: Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection primarily affects women, often during or shortly after pregnancy. However, it can also occur in men and individuals who do not fall into these categories. SCAD differs from other types of heart attacks because it typically affects younger individuals who do not have traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as obesity, high cholesterol, or smoking. Causes and Risk Factors: The exact causes of SCAD are still not entirely understood. Research suggests that hormonal changes, including those during pregnancy, may weaken the arterial walls. Other risk factors associated with SCAD include intense physical exertion, extreme emotional stress, connective tissue disorders, and certain underlying vascular conditions. Signs and Symptoms: SCAD can present symptoms similar to a heart attack, including chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, sweating, and nausea. However, it is essential to note that SCAD can manifest as atypical symptoms, such as fatigue, dizziness, and fainting. This variation in symptoms often leads to a delayed or misdiagnosis, making SCAD challenging to detect. Diagnosis: Given the unique nature of SCAD, accurate diagnosis requires specialized tests and procedures. Cardiac catheterization, where a dye is injected into the arteries to visualize any dissection or blockage, is a common diagnostic tool. Intravascular imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), can provide more detailed information about the artery's structure and identify the presence of a dissection. Treatment Options: The treatment for SCAD is individualized and depends on the severity of the condition. In some cases, conservative management, including medication to manage symptoms, is sufficient. However, suppose the dissection causes a significant blockage or leads to a heart attack. More invasive procedures like percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) may be necessary. Cardiac rehabilitation and long-term follow-up are essential components of the recovery process. Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection is a complex and challenging condition that predominantly affects women. While the exact causes of SCAD remain elusive, ongoing research is improving our understanding of this condition. The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience any unusual symptoms related to the heart, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. With continued awareness and research, we can enhance our knowledge of SCAD and improve the care provided to individuals affected by this condition. Thanks for reading today and gaining awareness about SCAD. Please share this with others. If you have any questions, please reach out via email: design@insidefashiondesign.net

"Here's how I see it. These aren't your typical 'Design Principles', but nevertheless guiding forces to design excellence, whether you know it or not". Lee Calderon Greetings, Fashion Fans! In this exciting blog post, we have the pleasure of featuring the extraordinary Lee Calderon, a Creative Director, Art Director, Designer, and Illustrator extraordinaire and his thoughts on design excellence Lee's work is a captivating blend of vibrancy and energy that instantly uplifts the spirits. Just a glimpse through his website is enough to put anyone in a good mood! I deeply connect with Lee's unique style, as it resonates with my past swimwear designs. Many of the successful prints share similarities with his work, featuring dynamic movement, vibrant colors, and striking graphic motifs. That's why I'm incredibly eager to delve into Lee's creative process, explore what inspires him, and gain insights into his unique perspective on design principles. Join me as we embark on a fascinating journey with Lee Calderon in discovering "The OTHER Design Principles." Welcome to the world of drama, layers, intent, vibe, and finding the "God" in your design! 'The OTHER Design Principles'. By Lee: DRAMA: Creating moments for the right moment LAYERS: One thing leads to another INTENT: Kiss me like you mean it VIBE: Make me feel something GOD: What's the 'God' in your design? Lee says: There’s nothing I love more than bringing places, spaces, products, and brands to life with my bold, vibrant, layered art. My art is design-driven with the intent to bring joy and a sense of style to a surface or space, celebrating a particular world. Whether the focus is on creating abstract designs or engaging narrative landscapes, my work typically consists of modern shapes, movement, striking colors, layers, symbols, patterns, and unbridled joy — all brought together to bring visual drama to surfaces, tell a story or enhance an experience with design. Artwork from Lee Calderon Over the years, I have worked as a Creative Director, Art Director, Designer, Illustrator, and, even briefly, as an Architect — gaining well-rounded experience and insight regarding concepts, brand narratives, art direction, spaces, built environments, products, print and digital considerations in various market segments. I studied architecture, graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Cal Poly Pomona in California. Inevitably, my innate curiosity led me to the world of art and design, where I graduated from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA. Looking back, my work is a testament to how I see the world and my passion for integrating art, design, and the human experience. I guess you can say that I’ve always been a bit of a daydreaming visual guy. In fact, I recall growing up constantly hearing my mother snap her fingers in front of my face and say, ‘You’re on the moon again.’ Drawing from my love and background in art, design, and architecture, I enjoy setting a vision and creating art for: Placemaking Projects Public Art Mixed-use Developments Retail Spaces Restaurants Hospitality + Resorts Higher Education Science + Technology Market Healthcare Facilities Corporate Spaces Branded Environments Brands Textile Designs Window Displays Products Packaging Art Licensing Artwork applications by Lee Calderon To meet and chat with Lee, attend our free Community Conversation on June 8th, 10:00 AM PDT. Free and open to all. Learn about Design Excellence and using the "other" design principles in your work How do you stay relevant in today's apparel industry? Whether an early-stage workers or a seasoned pro, we all need tools to stay relevant in this fast-paced industry. Join IFD Connect to gain access to community support and resources to bring you up to speed, and brush up on your skills and knowledge so that you be relevant in today's fashion world Like this article? Please share. Know someone who loves fashion and would enjoy connecting? Please invite them! Thanks for reading today! We appreciate you!

Several excellent time management tools are available to help individuals and teams effectively manage their time and increase productivity. Here is what we found as top recommended options: Todoist: Todoist is a popular task management tool that allows you to create and organize your to-do lists. It offers features like due dates, reminders, priority levels, and project management capabilities. Toggl: Toggl is a time-tracking tool that helps you monitor how you spend your time on different tasks and projects. It provides detailed reports and insights, allowing you to identify time wasters and optimize your productivity. RescueTime: RescueTime is another time-tracking tool that runs in the background of your devices and tracks your activities. It provides a detailed breakdown of your time, including time spent on specific websites, applications, or tasks. Google Calendar: Google Calendar is a versatile tool for scheduling and time management. You can create events, set reminders, share calendars, and integrate them with other agencies for better organization and productivity. Evernote: Evernote is a note-taking app that helps you capture and organize your ideas, tasks, and information. It allows you to create and manage notes, attach files, set reminders, and search for content across multiple devices. Asana: Asana is a powerful project management tool that enables teams to collaborate and manage tasks effectively. It provides features like task assignments, due dates, progress tracking, and integrations with other tools. Pomodoro Technique Apps: There are several apps based on the Pomodoro Technique, a time management method that breaks work into intervals with regular breaks. Examples include Pomodoro Timer, Focus Keeper, and Forest, which help you stay focused and manage your time more efficiently. Trello: Trello is a visual task management tool that uses boards, lists, and cards to help you organize and prioritize your work. It's beneficial for teams and allows for easy collaboration and tracking of tasks. Microsoft OneNote: OneNote is a digital notebook that lets you create and organize notes, to-do lists, and reminders. It offers handwriting recognition, web clipping, and synchronization across devices. Notion: Notion is an all-in-one productivity tool that combines note-taking, project management, and task tracking in a flexible and customizable interface. It allows you to create databases, boards, and calendars to keep all your information and tasks in one place. Have you used any of these? One of my personal favorites is Evernote- it's straightforward and simple, and Google Calendar for keeping meetings and tasks organized. Do you have a favorite or experience with these? Let us know so we can learn more. Remember, the effectiveness of a time management tool depends on your personal preferences and work style. Experimenting with different tools is essential to find the ones that best suit your needs.

In the breathtaking region of Herat, Afghanistan, a delicate and vibrant flower known as Crocus Sativus, or Saffron, is the source of the world's most expensive spice, saffron. The cultivation of saffron serves as an alternative to opium production, provides a livelihood for women & supplies eco-friendly ingredients for several uses. Saffron, often referred to as the "red gold," due to its high cost, demands precision and careful attention to cultivating, the majority of which is done by women. The delicate nature of saffron harvest is done by hand, making their work a vital role in production. Beyond its cultural significance, saffron harvesting and production is a source of hope and empowerment for Afghan women. As the production of opium, with its detrimental consequences, gives way to saffron cultivation, women find new economic independence & positive impacts on their local communities. The magic of saffron extends beyond its vibrant appearance and delicate flavor. Its distinct perfume-like aroma evokes a sense of joy, and Its versatile nature allows for its use in not only culinary delights but also the creation of a natural dye, adding vibrant, natural color to textiles. In this article by Saffron supplier, Zohre Farzanegan, she explains how when the Crocus flower is used to produce saffron, there is considerable waste. However, it was discovered that the "waste" can be used as a natural fabric dye, creating a beautiful golden yellow color. Read more here Hasinaa, a dedicated member of the Saffron Quality Division, feels empowered by her work. She contributes to producing high-quality saffron and knows that through their work, they are enriching the lives of her families and her community. As we dove into the history and impact of the amazing flower, we wanted to learn more about the use for fabric dying, so did a little more digging! Image from Textilelearner.net In the article: Eco-Friendly Dyes for Textiles, from Textilelearner.net they state: "Saffron, a bright rich yellow dye obtained from the stigmata of the ‘Crocus Sativus’ plant, was not only used as a textile dye but also, as a coloring and flavoring agents for foods and as a medicine. Monks of the middle ages discovered that by combining saffron with an Iron mordant they could produce ink for their illuminated manuscripts, which resembles Gold. Saffron was the most expensive yellow dyestuff of the ancients due to the fact that 4000 stigmata were required to produce one ounce of dye." Here is a beautiful yellow swatch showing the results of saffron dye, from sewhistoricall.com Want to try your hand at dying with saffron? check out this tutorial here from slofoodgroup.com Finding saffron powder for dying is not easy, but we found a source out of Australia, with their instructions below: image from kraftkolour.net.au We celebrate the labor of love behind saffron, where women's skills are transforming lives. Watch for more in our Meet the Makers series, where we shine a spotlight on makers areound the world, working towards a more ethial and sustainable future. Thanks for reading today! Do you know a maker thats local? Are you a maker yourself? Let us know....we may feature you! Dont want to miss out on future makers stories? Subsctibe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date

“Explorers depend on the North Star when there are no other landmarks in sight. The same relationship exists between you and your right life, the ultimate realization of your potential for happiness. I believe that a knowledge of that perfect life sits inside you just as the North Star sits in its unaltering spot.” -- Martha Beck Like many of us, I often get distracted and lose focus with too many things vying for my attention. I get drawn in by exciting articles, design trends, inspiring blog posts, and the desire to keep up with others in my field. As a result, I often feel overwhelmed with information overload and waste time and energy. While I know living life is not a straight line, I want to avoid big zigs & zags. Recently, a friend asked me, "What is your North Star?' and I had to pause and think about it. I took this as an opportunity to evaluate how I spend my time and energy and solidify my ultimate goal. Now, I keep my North Star in my line of vision and remind myself to use my time and energy to progress toward it. If I'm getting distracted (which I still do!) I ask myself, Is this the most important thing I can be doing right now? Is it leading me toward my long-term vision? What is the one thing I can do right now that will make progress toward my goal? If you're unsure about your North Star, don't worry; you're not alone. Here are some suggestions on how to help you determine yours: First, think about that ultimate goal that you're striving towards. Focus on that as your finish line, and avoid getting distracted by what others are doing. Then, consistently remind yourself of where you want to go, even when it feels challenging. If you get off track, it's okay; it's human. So get back on the road and keep going! Additionally, I believe your North Star can be holistic, applying to your personal and professional journey. Align your work, personal life, and projects with your values and beliefs. You may have individual career goals and personal goals, but you can apply the North Star concept to both, and they will align, making it even more powerful. The spring season brings in a renewed sense of optimism and opportunity. It feels like New Year's, except with more sun and blooms everywhere! I am using this time to dig deeper and invite you to do the same. With your long-term vision (Your North Star) in mind, how will you get there? What tools & strategies do you need to achieve it? Achieving this requires understanding additional factors, such as your values, mission, and purpose. So, let us step back for a moment. Before you finalize your North Star, ask yourself the following: 3 Key Factors needed to define: 1. What are Your Core Values? 2. What is Your WHY? (which in turn creates your Mission Statement) 3. What is Your Mission Statement? With that said, I'd like to invite you on a journey- We are kicking off this Season with not only this idea of working towards our personal North Star but how that applies to our profession as Fashion Design industry professionals. How can we use this same thinking in our work? If you are familiar with Inside Fashion Design, we advocate for "Conscious Fashion Design". This means that everything we do, we do in a thoughtful and considerate manner. This incorporates our values so that we can achieve results that make the best, most significant positive impact we can on people & planet. What does this journey entail, you ask? I understand- you would like to know what you are getting into. Just like when my business partner and I decided to take an eight-day trek to Macchu Pichu- we were excited but wanted to know what we were signing up for! This Conscious Design journey is broken down into phases to make it digestible and manageable. There are five phases, and each includes modules with actionable steps, including a checklist, design tools, and resources to guide you along the way. Just like a good roadmap (remember the old school style?), this will keep you moving forward in the right direction. To set the foundation of this journey, we want to have our Core Values, our Why & our Big Purpose in place- that is the beginning of our journey before we get into any design & development work The 5 Phases are: By joining us on this journey, you can utilize tools and resources like the design and development journey/process list to evaluate where you are in your design journey and where you need help. Every small step makes a difference. We will set aside time each quarter to assess our progress and use our supportive community of peers to hold us accountable. Join the IFD Team & a community like Inside Fashion Design Connect, where you can confidently work towards meeting your values, goals, and North Star. Are you interested in following along on this Conscious Design Journey? Take 2 minutes on the link below to join us and we will keep you in the loop!

Defining a mission statement for both your personal and professional brand is essential for any individual or organization to clarify its purpose, values, and goals. Here are some steps to help you create your own mission statement: Define your core values: Before crafting your mission statement, you need to identify your core values. These are the guiding principles that drive your actions and decisions. Start by brainstorming a list of values important to you or your organization, such as honesty, integrity, teamwork, or innovation. Identify your purpose: Next, think about why you exist or what you want to achieve. What problems do you want to solve? What kind of impact do you want to make? This will help you identify your purpose or your "why." Consider your audience: Your mission statement should be relevant to your target audience. Who are you serving? What do they care about? Ensure your mission statement resonates with them and communicates how you can help them. Craft a concise statement: Once you have a clear understanding of your values, purpose, and audience, it's time to craft your mission statement. Keep it concise and easy to remember. Ideally, it should be no more than a sentence or two. Use clear and straightforward language, and avoid jargon or buzzwords. Refine and revise: Don't expect to get your mission statement perfect on the first try. Refining and revising it over time is essential as you gain more clarity and experience. Please share it with others and get feedback to ensure that it accurately reflects your values and purpose. Grab our Handy Mission Statement Worksheet here to define yours Remember, your mission statement should clearly and concisely communicate your purpose and values to your target audience. It should serve as a guidepost for your actions and decisions and help you focus on your goals. Check out related posts: Top 6 Ways to Define Your Big Purpose & Discover Your WHY Do You Know What Your North Star is? 3 Key Factors to get you there and How to Apply to Design Work Spring Forward: Time to Refine Your Values, Mission & Your Big Purpose for Success Thanks for reading today! Have other suggestions or questions? Reach out to let us know design@insidefashiondesign.net Know someone who would like this article? Please share! Subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the know and see all our featured makers, along with industry insights & inspirations!

In the heart of Rongai County in Nairobi, Kenya, resides a family dedicated to the art of brass casting. Benta Awuor and the Art of Rangau Brass Casting Benta Awuor, a skilled brass caster, and a family matriarch, takes immense pride in her work. With a focus on ethical fashion and sustainable practices, their craftsmanship has garnered local and international attention. Benta and her extended family have been honing their skills as brass casters for over a decade. The art of brass casting has been passed down through generations, rooted in tradition and cultural heritage. By training the artisans within their own families, they ensure this ancient craft's preservation while empowering their loved ones with economic opportunities. Benta and her family firmly believe that quality naturally follows when one loves their work. This commitment to excellence is evident in the exquisite brass pieces they produce. Images of Vivienne Westwood Logo Brass Trims, The Rangau Brass Casting business not only upholds the highest standards of craftsmanship but also embraces sustainable practices. The process of brass casting involves meticulous attention to detail, from the preparation of the molds to the pouring of molten brass and the intricate finishing touches. The Brass comes from upcycled metals that are melted and reformed into new designs, including jewelry and trims for accessories. Every step is carried out with care, resulting in stunning brass creations that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kenya. How is Brass Casting done? Brass casting is a process of creating objects by pouring molten brass into a mold and allowing it to cool and solidify. Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is often chosen for its durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Brass casting is commonly used for manufacturing a variety of items like sculptures, decorative objects, jewelry, and hardware. From https://blog.viviennewestwood.com Empowering Artisans: Training and Sustainability in the Rangau Brass Casting Business In our ongoing research about artisan makers around the world, we stumbled upon this great online resource called: Open Sourcemap. where you can learn about where things come from & browse the world’s largest database of supply chain maps. You can register for a free account to start your own supply chain mapping. Check it out here. Open Sourcemap states: The Rangau Self-Help Group is a brass workshop run by husband and wife duo, Anton and Benta. The workshop recycles scrap metals to make the brass pieces (locks, engine parts, valves, etc.) Artisan Testimonial from Benta Awuor: "I am a 38-year-old mother of seven and have four orphans whom I take care of. I decided to join my husband in performing this order so I could supplement the family income. I worked mostly in the furnace. I was very happy to work on the Vivienne Westwood order as it gave my family the money we need to settle legal fees for our son who is in his final year of secondary school and was involved in a serious indiscipline case. I pray that Vivienne Westwood continues to send us orders since all that we own now was largely procured through Vivienne Westwood's orders." "The handmade nature of our accessories brings a natural variation to each product. In looking beyond the aesthetic qualities of the materials we use, we consider their social and environmental impacts, by means of ‘re-imagining waste’. For these pieces, local artisans recycled old car engine parts, taps, and padlocks from the local scrap yard. These metals were then melted down and cast into a mold to form the Vivienne Westwood logo, hardware, and buckles. The hardware used to finish the Made in Kenya accessories was handcrafted by Rangau Designers – a community team of brass artisans, based in Korogocho, one of the largest slum neighborhoods of Nairobi.“I am a blessed father of 4 children, and I have been part of the Rangau community for almost 3 years”, explains Artisan, Edwin Ochieng. “This job changed my life and the life of my family. I thank Artisan Fashion so much for providing us with work and I am looking forward to receiving more orders to create employment for more people.’’ From Viviennewestwood.com We honor the artistry and craftsmanship of Benta Awuor and the Rangau Brass Casting family. Their work serves as a reminder that fashion can be a force for positive change, honoring tradition while embracing sustainability. Thanks for reading today! Have other suggestions or questions? Reach out to let us know design@insidefashiondesign.net Know someone who would like this article? Please share! If you enjoy our Meet-the-Makers series, I invite you to check out our Ethical Makers Marketplace, where we showcase brands working towards positive change within the industry and making a social and environmental impact. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the know and see all our featured makers, along with industry insights & inspirations! Know someone who would like this article? Please share & Follow us. You can find us here: