Fashion is a creative outlet, for those who wear it, and those who create it — inspiration works both ways. When fashion designers begin a new collection, they are inspired by a myriad of elements around them. They draw from their experiences and dreams, materializing their senses and breathing life into their designs.

Cooking, for example, inspires designer, Zac Posen, as he finds the two disciplines very similar in their reliance on quality materials and presentation. He enjoys the colors, textures and overall aesthetics of food and brings that inspiration into his fashion designs.

Another designer, Coco Chanel, found her muse, very simply, in women. In a time when fashion was restrictive and uncomfortable for the sake of appearances, she created elegant but simple and extremely comfortable designs. She was inspired by the idea of giving women a sense of freedom, and in turn, her designs inspired women with a new sense of self confidence and individuality.

The exotic nature of coral has been a huge inspiration in both jewelry and fashion for hundreds of years, but recently scientists and designers joined forces to discuss how these influential industries could help the coral ecosystems by not using the aquatic animal in jewelry and clothing. Tiffany’s has banned the use of coral, and they, as well as fashion designers, are creating coral shaped items from resin or glass instead of using actual coral from the ocean. And that’s not the only issue fashion has lent awareness to. The famous pink ribbon supporting breast cancer awareness, for one, has become especially close to many of our hearts, and can be found featured on bracelets, charms, pins, purses, t-shirts, etc.

Madeleine Albright, the country’s first female Secretary of State, is not known as a fashion icon, but she sure has an inspirational accessory collection. Her broaches are her means of personal and diplomatic expression, whether emphasizing the importance of a negotiation, signifying high hopes, protesting the absence of progress, or showing pride in representing America. She even wrote a book titled Read My Pins: Stories from a Diplomat’s Jewel Box.

So as you can see, even the even the smallest details can be inspired by big concepts. On your next shopping excursion, challenge yourself to decipher the motivation behind your favorite new fabulous fashion. Where did it come from, and how does it inspire you?

On the runways, in store windows, and even at a CAbi Home Show, every piece of clothing you see was inspired by something. Just look where some of our favorite trends have come from …

Personal style expression is all about finding clothes that you feel great in, and then adding your special touch to make the look truly your own. Woman’s multifaceted personality is the key to unlocking personal style; it’s the yarn that weaves together a beautifully complex character through clothing. Personal style speaks - and this important factor of fashion is the reason countless women can own the same pieces of clothing and wear them completely differently. As women, we wear many different hats - and why not have a fabulous outfit to complement each one! Savor style, and delight in all that fashion has to offer.

	The Artist - Unlock your imagination with something unexpected like a scarf as a blouse, and a dressier jacket with boyfriend jeans.
 The Athlete - Create a playful style worth emulating, and find cuteness without sacrificing comfort.
	 The Classic Beauty - A perfectly tailored look for day that seamlessly transforms into a more alluring look for evening.
 The Diva - Ultra feminine with a hint of edge, stand out pieces with star status.
	 The Professional - Sophisticated men’s tailoring with the feminine undertone of a classic pencil skirt.
 The Rocker - Try mixing trendy pieces with your staples to add a little oomph to your style standard.

On those days when you feel like coloring outside the lines, add an extravagant twist to your sassiest style with a supersize dose of glam, glitter, and rock! These accessories make a style statement that is anything but demure.

I find inspiration in everything around me; the rich colors of nature, the beautifully unique cultures around the world. Treasured pieces found at flea markets and antique shops inspire silhouettes, textures, and colors. I love blending the past with exciting contemporary prints, fabrics, and yarns — taking vintage pieces and updating them for today without losing their timeless charm. I often get lost in my imagination thinking of the stories behind these special pieces … stories of who and where. More than anything though, I’m inspired to create pieces that make a woman feel beautiful. My hope is that the clothing I design provides women with endless options to create their own personal style.