Moda Slavica... Interview With Designer Slavica

Our featured designer this week is Slavica, who presently resides in Hollywood, Florida. When I first saw her line two years ago at Fort Lauderdale Fashion Week, I had simply three words, "wow, that's hot!" Then a couple of months ago, I bumped into her again at an Advisory Board Meeting for the The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, fashion department. Sitting next to her for two hours, I had ample opportunity to catch up with this emerging designer.

Five years ago, a new line was birthed under the unique name of the designer, Slavica. Originally from Macedonia, this dark haired beauty, now a Floridian, pours her personality and sensuality into each of her pieces, as you can clearly see from the pictures! I encourage every girl out there (& guys who enjoy their girls in hot, sexy pieces!) to check out her line and purchase at least one of her suits/cover-ups to wear out on the beach or the pool this summer!

Slavica, you've been designing for 5-6 years now, how much of your childhood influenced your decision to be a designer?

My mom used to be in the fashion retail business for many years while I was growing up. She taught me how to hand crochet when I was little and now I use that skill for my designs.

And what would say is the inspiration behind your current line?

I get inspired by different perspectives, usually, I stay away from the typical fashion trends and what everyone else is doing. I like to look more into nature and architecture...a flower or a piece of furniture! Also, as you said, I pour myself into the line. My collections are ME! I like to own one piece from each of my designs, that's how I know if some changes need to be made. I am very picky in comfort and style, that's why I have to try them all! If I get a lot of compliments on the dress or outfit as I'm wearing, I know it will sell very well.

How do you go about choosing your fabrics?

Fabrics are very important to me. Most of the time, if I see a fabric that I like, I get inspired and start from there to design the line! So, I'm always on the hunt for what moves me!

Tell us a little about your boutique, Boutique Lavi.

Everyday is an adventure! I meet different people, men and women, as well as designers and sales reps! Currently, in my showroom I carry my line and mostly local designers, we have some incredible talent in Florida! I carry European styles in apparel and accessories for both men and women, everyone should come in and see me or visit me on the web!

How would you describe your own personal style and who is your all-time favorite designer?

Stylish and trendy, I love jumpsuits, which are back in style! My favorite designer is Roberto Cavalli because of the fabrics and prints he uses.

Slavica, where would you like to see your career in the future?

I would like to have my own production company and be able to sell my line wholesale to a large number of different retail shops and boutiques.

Do you have any advice for young designers?

Yes, fashion is a hard business, like any other. It is a lot of competition too. You really need to be different and stand out so people will notice you as a designer and recognize your work. Any designer with passion and the willingness to work hard will make it.

Slavica, thank you so much for sharing a little about yourself with us, and for the remarkable talent you have for making a woman look and feel beautiful!

To view more of the line Slavica or Boutique Lavi, visit www.BoutiqueLavi.com. If you are in the South Florida area, you're welcome to visit the showroom where you will most likely meet the designer herself! Boutique Lavi is located at 1928 Harrison Street, ste A, Hollywood, FL 33020.

To read more, please visit our full blogzine at http://SouthFloridaStyle.blogspot.com