ONA REX- Week #12

What a way to end my internship semester--with a photoshoot!!!  "It was a day to end all days!"

First of all, we met at Weld in Nashville for the shoot.  The space was absolutely gorgeous!  For today, there were three goals:  1-to shoot pictures for the e-commerce site,  2-to shoot editorial shots that are magical, and 3-to have maximum fun!!!

While Brett set up the lighting and camera equipment and Jessica did Raena's hair and makeup, I prepared, along with Ashley, the clothes that would be shot during the session, by steaming them and checking for lint--just making sure that the clothes were in top-notch condition. I continued doing this during the photography sessions; because during the course of the shoot, various things can happen to clothing.  You have to continuously check for lint, wrinkling and folding, makeup smears, etc. I was also on the lookout for the drape of each garment and the way tops were tucked.   

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       This set that Brett created was incredible. It felt like Ona Rex went to Mars! Seeing the way that Brett and Ashley worked together in this shoot was awesome! They both have great communication skills and an amazing eye for creative shots. For the second half of the shoot, Raena's hair looked amazing!!! The braids that Jessica created were jaw dropping! Raena was able to play with the braids in some of the shots, and I loved it! 

The Base Collection will drop on December 11th! Make sure you check it out on www.onarex.com!

XOXO

-KENDRA-

ONA REX- Week #11

What do you do with a measuring tape, scissors, fray check, and a mallet?  Apply snaps, of course!  This week, Ashley was working on a custom garment for her good friend Hunter Claire to wear to the 2017 NFA Honors Night. This custom piece had a detachable cape that could be snapped on for different looks.  I had never applied snaps to a garment, but this was the perfect opportunity for Ashley to teach me.  Also, it would have been a missed opportunity if I had not taken detail shots featuring her freshly self-manicured nails!  Later that night, Hunter Claire came by the studio for a fitting; and of course, it was perfection! 

On another note, this was a really goofy day!  The sky turned so dark at around 3:30 p.m.; it was the first day of the season that the sun set so early.  To welcome such a momentous day, Ashley and I spent time intermittently listening to upbeat music and dancing while I was sewing for the Base Collection, and just telling jokes and acting silly--all while we did a mountain of work!  

The day came and went in a blink it seemed.  On Thursday night, November 16, Marathon Music Works in Nashville is the venue for the 2017 NFA Awards event, and Ashley is a nominee for "Women's Wear Designer of the Year."  I am so honored to be associated with a designer of Ashley's essence.  

Because of the full week ahead, I am taking home with me wrap dresses to sew over the weekend. I have a hectic life, but I would not have it any other way.  Doing what you love and loving what you do--my definition of happiness!!!  

             ** "Hmmm...Do you love the hem finish on this Detachable Cape in the signature Ona Rex lilac as much as I do?"**

To finalize my week, I would like to congratulate Ashley Balding as Nashville's 2017  "Women's Wear Designer of the Year!"  I knew you would win!  Yaaaay!!!

XOXO

-KENDRA 

ONA REX- Week #10

This week was consumed by pinning, cutting, sewing, and pressing. Primarily, I sewed in order to fill orders for the Winter showroom pop-up.  I cut out numerous outfits and pinned together fabric pieces for Ashley to sew also; it just expedites everything. I pressed garments as they were sewn.  We really knocked out a lot of garments this week that needed to make it onto the showroom floor.

I really love the seam finishes on these twill Ona Rex Palazzo Pants! 

XOXO

-KENDRA-

ONA REX- Week #9

  This week was a week of finishing what is started and starting something new. I finished the Trapeze Dress, and I worked on the Camel Wrap Dress, as well.  Ashley and I had our own little Halloween party, too, listening to Halloween music, sipping on pumpkin spice lattes, eating out at a local haunt, and enjoying the change in the season! Also, Ashley treated me with a latte and a cornbread muffin from the Calypso Cafe. She’s the best!

The Trapeze Dress

 The Camel Wrap Dress

I HOPE you all had as much fun on Halloween this year as I did!

XOXO

-KENDRA-

ONA REX- Week #8

The beginning of this week was filled with a variety of tasks—all in preparation for the future pop-up at Jamie in Belle Meade. Jamie is hosting the pop-up of fashions for all the nominees of the 2017 NFA (Nashville Fashion Alliance) Awards to be held on November 16. Ashley, I am so proud to say, was nominated for “Women’s Wear Designer of the Year.” So, this week, I spent time checking each garment to insure that it was in perfect condition, adding hang tags to merchandise, and steaming each garment.  Afterwards, Ashley and I took the garments to Jamie and ran additional errands. 

After we delivered all the garments safe and sound to Jamie, we spent the rest of the day running “top secret” errands.  All I can say is:  Get excited for the holidays, because Ona Rex may have some surprises up their sleeve for you!

I finished off the week by working on the Trapeze Dress, and I did something that I have never done before:  Ashley taught me how to french seam sleeves.  It was a little tricky at first due to easing the sleeve cap, but I succeeded!  No puckers!  Just a gorgeous finish! A perfect week in my opinion—hard work, fun, and learning something new!!!

XOXO

-KENDRA-

ONA REX- Week #7

I started the week by cutting out red Cape Tops in the beautiful cotton cupro fabric. The pieces were cut from a brand new roll of fabric! I worked as efficiently as possible to cut the fabric with the least amount of waste. It's important, on so many levels, to utilize as much fabric as possible.

Next, I started sewing the linen Trapeze Dress! The seaming on this garment is absolutely beautiful! Also, a dress with pockets? Yes please!! The top quality pocket details and french seams make this garment feel so luxurious!

Lastly, Ashley wanted me to research social media influencers that I believe will love Ona Rex! With the FW 2017 collection in mind, I began my search. Ashley gave me a few key features to look for in a possible Ona Rex influencer! I was able to gain a lot of knowledge through my research of social media influencers, and I learned what to look for in an influencer. Each week, I continue to sharpen my attention to detail and to increase my speed, as well as to utilize my construction skills. 

XOXO

-KENDRA-

ONA REX- Week #6

It's beginning to feel more and more like fall each day, and I am loving it! This week I was able to work comfortably in my coziest sweater. I started off the week by sewing the custom linen palazzo pants. I absolutely love this fabric, and the silhouette of the palazzo pants are to die for! These particular pants have on-seam pockets which are french seamed! It was a little tricky at first; but after Ashley taught me the ropes, it was a lot easier. The seam finish is so clean. I love that Ashley thinks outside of the box, not only in silhouette direction, color, and textiles but also with the seam finishes and attention to the tiny details.

After I finished sewing, Ashley and I took time to watch the Louis Vuitton SS18 Runway show live. We talked about our favorite garments in the collection along with upcoming trends that we are excited for and not so excited for. Below, are a few of my favorite pieces from the show!

After the runway show ended, we headed to Wilder in order to take down the Ona Rex F/W 17 collection and installation. The pop-up was a great success, and I'm happy that I was a part of it!

XOXO

-KENDRA-

ONA REX F/W 17 LAUNCH- Week #5

@sydneyduncanco, @ken.drama, @ashe.cain, @just_call_me_peach

      What a crazy, thrilling, exhilarating, surprising, invigorating, celebrating, unveiling, exhausting--fantastic--week at Ona Rex!!! This was the week of the season. In fact it was the week that Ashley had been working toward for several months--the Fall/Winter 17 Launch Week at Wilder!!!

 One of the numerous things that I did in preparation for the big launch was to seam-rip the old Ona Rex sew-in tags that would be substituted with the new sew-in labels, and then I attached the sizing tags to the new branded sew-in tags.  After I prepped those, I cut bias strips for finishing necklines and armholes in various sizes and textiles.

This week, I spent a great deal of time running errands.  First, I needed to run to The Container Store in Green Hills to buy special hangers for the event, which had grips for folding pants. Afterwards, I went to The Paper Source to purchase specialty paper in lilac to be used for printing care labels for each garment as well as hang tags for runway samples.  I went to Fed Ex to have this done. I was so happy that Starbucks was right next to the Fed Ex office; so of course, my car headed straight to my happy place.  I picked up Pumpkin Spice Lattes for Ashley and myself--another thing we have in common.  Since it was around lunchtime, I made a pit stop by Chipotle as well.       

 After Ashley and I took a lunch break, I resumed working by checking each garment for loose threads, spots, unbuttoned buttons or unzipped zippers.  Then I helped Ashley pack up everything to transport to Wilder, the hosting pop-up shop in Germantown for Ona Rex.  Once there, I helped Ashley and Brett Warren (Ashley's good friend, photographer, and creative collaborator) with the art installation, which displays Ashley's unique baubles and "Galaxy Necklaces."  I cleaned the racks to make sure they were pristine for the garments.  Then, I removed the garments from their garment bags, hung them carefully on the racks, and steamed each garment for that perfect finished debut. 

After a really long and hard day's work, I headed home to rest up for the launch party, the happening place to be on the following evening! The launch party had a great attendance, and I was so glad to have many of my friends there with me.  I was blessed to be able to share in such an exciting event, and seeing how Ashley was so vibrant under pressure was beyond impressive! (Be sure to check out the Ona Rex Fall/Winter 2017 Collection here.  If you would like to see more photos from the event, click here. ) 

XOXO

-KENDRA-

ONA REX- Week #4

During Week 4, I put my skills to the test as I patterned, sewed, and cut fabrics—lots of yardage and lots of memories!  I was so excited, too, about the weekend.  More memories to be shared and made as I visited my family back home and attended my nephew’s third birthday party!

  Ever so carefully, I transferred the Ruth Pant pattern to brown paper so that it could be modified into the “Inverse”Ruth Pant pattern where I extended the side seam a couple of inches and then patterned a panel in the inseam—“seaming on the inner leg” per Ashley’s step-by-step process. After completing the pattern, I rolled out the 100% cotton lilac fabric; and the Inverse Ruth Pant was ready to be cut!

XOXO

-KENDRA-

ONA REX- Week #3

    Week 3 was an itinerary of many tedious and necessary tasks and errands that reminded me how important every element is to the design and production process and just how huge the impact can be down the road.

             One of the tasks that I learned how to do more efficiently was working with interfacing.  Ashley (Ona Rex founder and designer) taught me how to apply interfacing to any kind of garment or fabric with ease by utilizing some creative steaming/pressing techniques. After learning this new method, I stitched around the edges of each pocket detail, which will later be added to the Linen Trapeze Dress. Afterwards, I turned out the pocket detail and pressed it, making it ready to be top stitched.

This week I also ran a few errands. One of the tasks  was to pick up some patterns that Ashley had professionally graded in Nashville. This sparked a conversation about the pros and cons of having this service done by someone else. I loved hearing Ashley’s insights about making this choice sometimes, and this may be a solution for me at particular times in the future.

 Next, I worked on prepping the ties for the Lilac Wrap Dress.  One of Ashley’s techniques includes pinning the fabric at a diagonal to prevent shifting, This is all part of the preparation, followed by stitching around the edges, turning out the ties, and giving them a good press.  After this, it was time for me to go on to something new.

The final thing I did this week was to cut the Camel Wrap Dress in all available sizes. The new rotary cutter and cutting mat sure made my life a lot easier and saved a huge amount of time,  Having the right tools is a life-saver!

XOXO

-KENDRA-

ONA REX- Week #2

 

The second week of my internship was off to a great start. On the way to the studio, I picked up coffee for me and Ashley, because it's Pumpkin Spice season, of course. ;) My first task of the day was to transfer the Inverse Ruth Pant pattern to brown paper, walk the seams, and alter the pattern slightly if needed. After completing the pattern transfer, Ashley checked it to make sure that we didn't mark the size incorrectly. 

Next, I pressed this vibrant twill fabric in order to prepare to cut the Button Down Dress. This industrial iron feels like heaven. While pressing, I noticed that the fabric began to change color and I was worried that I had ruined Ashley's fabric! Luckily, I was assured that due to the strong pigment in the dye that the color would go back to normal once it cooled down. After cutting out the Button Down dress, I also cut out some fusible interfacing for the dress with a rotary cutter.

 

XOXO

-KENDRA-

ONA REX- Week #1

My senior year has finally started, along with my internship at ONA REX in Nashville, TN--my first internship ever! I have fantasized about what an internship would be like since I watched The Devil Wears Prada in the 6th grade! On the big screen, photoshoots, coffee runs, and all of the fashion were mesmerizing. I'm sure my experience as an intern will differ somewhat from Anne Hathaway's character, but it is still exciting! 

DAY 1

The first day of my internship was an interesting one. We started the day at Frothy Monkey to avoid traffic. Ashley Balding, the founder of Ona Rex, treated me to a "Coconut Cream Latte" before we got to work. We researched influencers that may line up with Ashley's brand and talked about analytics. After the traffic settled down, we headed to the studio. Once we arrived, Ashley was quick to give me the grand tour. There was so much color that my heart almost exploded! 

After the tour, I started to precisely cut out the Cape Top, in the Lavender option. This asymmetrical top from Ona Rex's F/W 17 is GORGEOUS and will be available very soon. ;) 

Ashley and I were laughing about the pattern piece below. While cutting, I noticed that she accidentally had labeled it "Cape Town" instead of "Cape Top." She couldn't remember what was going through her head at the time.

DAY 2

This day started bright and early. Before heading to the studio, I just HAD to stop by Starbucks and order my favorite Fall drink, a "Pumpkin Spice Latte"--my first one of the year--so I was in a fabulous mood! I began to cut out a few more sizes of the Lavender Cape Top and  worked on increasing my speed. Next, I ran a few errands for Ashley and picked up lunch for us at Clawson's Pub & Deli. After lunch and stimulating conversation, I continued to cut out Lavender Cape Tops until the work day was over. I am really enjoying my internship so far and looking forward to the weeks to come!

XOXO

-KENDRA-

How To Get Inspired

    I have worked so hard this semester, and giving it your all can sometimes leave you in a funk. There are only a couple more weeks left before the semester is over, and I feel burnt out. In an attempt to get inspired, I figured that I would write about ways to get your mojo back. This list is in no particular order. Just a few ideas! Let's cross our fingers and hope this works!

1. Take Care of Yourself

     Whether this step involves drinking more water, cooking healthier meals, working out or having a spa night at home, it is very important to put yourself first sometimes. Mental and physical health are so important. Don't take your body for granted. Plus, "endorphins make you happy, and happy people just don't shoot their husbands."

2. Break from Social Media

     Social Media is often very inspiring, but sometimes you need a break from information overload. Go out with your friends--without posting it to your Snapchat story every once in a while. Appreciate who they are and the ways that they can inspire you to be a better person (and  designer, in my case). 

3. Look Through Old Sketches and Notebooks

     Sometimes we forget about thoughts and ideas that inspired us in the past. Looking through old sketch books or journals can ignite an idea you already had and transform it into one that can now evolve into something amazing and new.

4. Work on Something Else

    If you are like me, then you have a million and one things to do. You can't focus on a particular task? Then move on to the next one and come back later . Give it time! Sometimes you will get a bolt of inspiration while cleaning, running errands, or even writing a blog post. (brb... Have to go work on my Final CAD Project.)

5. Scroll through Pinterest

     I am so so thankful for Pinterest. Such an amazing tool! Looking for new pins or scrolling though old ones can help you gain inspiration.

     We all need time to recharge. When you feel like you have lost all motivation, try these tips. They have surely helped me today. What is your favorite way to get inspired? If you have any tips, then list them in the comments below. :)

XOXO

-KENDRA-

I'm So Thankful!

     Thanksgiving is coming up soon, and it's a great time to reflect on what is most important in life. I'm thankful for many reasons, but I will keep this post short and sweet! 

     First and foremost, I am thankful for God and family. I am very thankful that God leads me and that I can find my identity through Christ. The Lord has always been so patient with me, and He has helped my family do the same. Whether I have had a bad day or a good day, my family is always there. My parents believe in my dreams, and they continue to support me in my aspiration to be a Fashion Designer. I have always looked up to my brothers and considered them to be my best friends. They have made me laugh more times than I could count, and they are a great example in my life. My Sister-in-Love is also an amazing role model. She has been there to lift me up and tell me how it is. I'm so thankful that I have her and can call her my friend! My nephews are so talented, along with the rest of my family. They make me laugh, and I never leave them without a big smile on my face. 

    Although I have had good friends and bad friends, I am so thankful for the ones who have stuck around. I have understanding friends who love me and support me. Even if we don't talk every day, I know that I can count on them when I need them; and they can count on me, too. I'm thankful for many shoulders to cry on and people to laugh with!

Thank you for being there for me! I love you all so very much :)

XOXO

-KENDRA-

My Favorite Fall and Winter Trends of 2016-2017

       October through January has always been my favorite time of the year. Fall/Winter fashion is EVERYTHING, in my opinion. Wearing a plain t-shirt and jeans? Just throw on a coat and some boots, and BOOM! you're fabulous! Although I believe that it is important to wear whatever you want, whether it is on trend or not, I enjoy selecting a few personal favorites to add to my wardrobe. Here are some of the trends that I will be loving this season!

1. Chokers

90's vibes make my heart sing. This Velvet choker from ASOS is so simple but it can change your whole look! 

 2. Corduroy

The Devoted To You Jumper by Free People has a beautiful sheen to it, and I am in LOVE with the Forest Green color <3!

3. Embroidery

Nordstrom has this gorgeous floral bomber jacket. Not only does embroidery look great on this jacket, but it is also amazing on jeans, dresses, and more! 

4. Satin Slip Dresses

This lustrous Ruby dress from ASOS could be layered over a t-shirt or under a sweater paired with tights. The color is amazing and the slip dress is very affordable.

5. Chunky Knit Scarves

I love this one by Christian Siriano that Zendaya was rocking back in March! 

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6. Velvet...Velvet... and more VELVET

I love this velvet shift dress from Zappos! It would look so cute with a black leather jacket, tights, and boots! 

7. Faux Fur

This coat from Target looks so cozy and chic! This color would look great paired with other neutrals or with bold colors!

Trends are so so fun as long as we remember to stay true to our own style and be confident in who we are. 

XOXO

-KENDRA-

Sweater Weather

Yay!  A thousand times yay!  Fall is finally here, and I can finally wear SWEATERS!  During late summer, I continuously had visions of chilly weather, hot cocoa, pumpkin spice lattes, s'mores, scarecrows, pumpkin mazes, and hayrides to "dance through my head."  What was the one thread that held these little vignettes all together for me??? Sweaters, that's what!  On one particularly hot, humid, sticky day during those last few "lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer," I literally went to my closet and stood there for fifteen minutes purveying all my beautiful sweaters!  Every gorgeous autumn hue presented itself.  I could have assembled a dozen different silhouettes.  It was time to turn over a new leaf or two; and to help get the season started,  I began to sort my sweaters:  Which one would I wear first on that first day of Fall?  Without question, my beautiful slate gray crocheted sweater, by Free People, which I LOVE would have to be that first ONE! 

This chunky knit with boat neckline and bell sleeves has extended arm holes, outside stitching, and elongated  V-detailing in the front and on the sleeves.  I LOVE pairing this cozy and unique sweater with frayed boyfriend jeans. Perfect for any chilly day!

XOXO

-KENDRA-

*You can purchase this sweater in Ivory here!