Hello, Darlings . . . some of you may know that I am currently enjoying a visit to beautiful, Alaska. Internet service has been slow and sporadic, but I have a lot of wonderful projects in the works. Right now, I'm especially excited about a fun collaboration with Australian, fashion label -- Goddess of Babylon. To start, check out this inspiring, interview with their designer, Chantel Barber. This gorgeous, line offers flirty playsuits, cozy cropped jackets, as well as pretty, romantic, dresses -- perfect, for us boho-luxe, girls. Life just keeps getting better. Their spring pre-orders just dropped, and I want everything! Best of all, they are kindly offering Charcoal Alley readers a 10% discount
on any items in their store -- just enter coupon code: goddesslove at checkout.
Artist / Designer : Chantel Barber
Star Sign : Cancer
Online Boutique : goddessofbabylon.com.au
Instagram : @goddessofbabylon
Describe Goddess of Babylon in five words:
— Unique, Feminine, Handcrafted, Textural, Exotic.
What’s the best thing about creating in Byron Bay? And Bali?
— Byron nurtures and supports the process: stunning landscape, beautiful beaches, inspiring friends and a hub of artists, creatives, and like minded people. The friendly pace of life here allows design ideas to expand and evolve. Bali is more the place where the ideas become realized. It’s a hectic time of printing, dying and sampling. Bali is in my heart; I love the people, and magic of the island, and what it provides creatively, but it is changing rapidly due to development and money.
When did you know you wanted to be a fashion designer?
— It was honestly more a necessity at first, I was traveling constantly and needed to support the habit. Being inspired by the artisans and markets in Europe, I started designing on my travels and would then sell the creations at markets in London or Australia, and then . . . off I’d go again!
What inspires you?
— My friends: evolved, loving, open, supportive, wonderful humans.
I draw a lot of inspiration from traditional textile artisans from around the world. My creations are glimpses into my travels, a life of creative journeys — from the Medinas of Marrakech, to the vivacity of Mexico, from the fashion and food of Paris, to the majestic colour of Rio de Janeiro. My inspiration is drawn from places rich in culture and wreathed in smiles.
Do you have a philosophy that you live by?
—It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.
Do you believe in trends?
— Yes, trends exist, but they are more controlled by the big players than the people. I have never really followed trends; my creative process is more personal and I have to keep true to that.
Day or night?
— Day! Most definitely. Arlo (our 3 year old son) culled any night time escapades quite quickly. Mornings are blissful . . . we see the sun rise over the ocean each morning from our home.
What’s your dream adventure? Dream shoe? Dream breakfast?
— I have an endless store of adventures. This month, I will escape for a couple of weeks with the girls to Ibiza, and then, Paris . . .
One thing that makes you laugh?
— Arlo, the kookiest man in my life!
Best advice you have ever received?
— Kindness . . . it doesn’t cost a damn thing. Sprinkle that shit everywhere.
Peace, Love & Good Chocolate
PARIS
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