She lives in Hawaii, she has great sense of style, and most importantly- she is the designer/creator behind Gypsy, a sexy and boho chic lingerie line. Envious would be an understatement.
Read on and learn all about my new virtual friend, and savvy business woman, Kate Ruggiero. She has a fab outlook on how to run a successful fashion line, while still staying true to herself and making time to enjoy the many perks of living in Hawaii. I always say, balance is the key to making it.
Personally, I have never been a “sexy lingerie” girl… fur trimmed teddies and g-strings (sorry to be crude) are just not my thing. Kate has mastered the art of creating sexy lingerie that you will actually feel totally comfortable wearing. Hello perfect cut booty shorts and and stylish bralettes. I want all of you…
+ FL: Tell us a little bit about your biz.
KR: Gypsy is my business name & our studio is based out of the North Shore of Oahu.
+ FL: How did you get started in the business of fashion, more specifically lingerie? Tell us the story behind Gypsy.
KR: I have a background in fashion & photography and when I moved out to Hawaii I spent a lot of time daydreaming and sketching and for some reason felt like learning to sew again. I knew a bit when I was younger but wanted to really learn again. For my birthday, a few close friends gifted me with a cute little vintage machine and I started learning again. I wanted to make bikini bottoms and started working with jersey fabric & creating my perfect pair. I cut apart several different designs & kept testing out the fit until I created a style I loved.
Slowly my friends wanted pairs, and then with the help of my very talented friend, Daeja Fallas, we decided to photograph the pieces for fun for a lookbook. I honestly had no intention of starting a business. I really didn’t decide to do so until I tried them out on a First Friday event in the Arts District of Chinatown. A small boutique called ETown studios did a launch party for the pieces and it was the first time I could see how people would respond.
They sold really well and then sold out within the first few weeks in the boutique. It has been such an adventure and I love that I try to really hold onto the truth of it, that I never really started it with the intention of making money. Simply put, I just want to make beautiful things and enjoy it.
+ FL: What is the most important thing you have learned in regards to working in this business? Do you have any tips for people looking to enter the industry?
KR: Follow your heart. Stay true to yourself. Don’t compare what you’re doing to anyone else & try to remember what you have is what you need to be creative. Focus on yourself & what inspires you and try to always follow your heart.
Also don’t be afraid to ask for help & to take a day off to float in the ocean.
+ FL: How would you best describe your line?
KR: Sexy, feminine, comfortable, romantic. Its best for a date night or for lounging around. I think it’s best to wear sexy lingerie even if no one but yourself is going to see it – it makes you feel as beautiful as you are!
+ FL: Since creating Gypsy, what has been your most exciting “I made it” moment?
KR: I’ve had so many! It’s been such a journey & one I’m excited to continue on. With my first collection we got our first international boutique in Italy which seemed pretty quick and exciting. It’s been a whirlwind and one I could not be more grateful for. I also recently started selling through Free People which has been one of my favorite brands since I was young.
+ FL: What is your typical go to outfit for a day at work?
KR: Living on the beach, things here are much simpler than my previous lifestyle in NY. I like to keep things pretty simple and I tend to wear lots and lots of lace & crochet!
+ FL: How about a night out on the town?
KR: Anything lace with my favorite black boots.
+ FL: What trends do you love for Spring 2013?
KR: I love our new collection, Paradise Found, which is mostly inspired by the place I call home – rich vibrant colors of the jungle and vintage prints of paradise.
+ FL: What are your favorite places to shop?
KR: Topshop, Free People, vintage shops.
+ FL: Tell us all your most sacred beauty and/or fashion secret.
KR: Coconut oil, for everything! (<— ditto)
+ FL: Who are some of your favorite fashion icons?
KR: Kate Moss, Jane Birkin, Daria Werbowy
+ FL: What is the most beloved item in your closet?
KR: My great aunts cameo ring from Italy
+ FL: Tell us your no.1 fashion motto:
KR: Be yourself. That’s whats sexy to me.
–E