Today, I’m thrilled to bring you a behind the scenes look into the studio of womenswear clothing designer, Sophia Reyes David. Soft-spoken Sophia, is nothing but fierce, behind the sewing machine. She’s a woman with a vision for contemporary and wearable women’s clothing. I love her eye for pattern, color, draping and figure flattering cuts.

Sophia’s designs first caught my eye at Milk Handmade (one of my favorite Chicago clothing boutiques) and I’ve been following her on Instagram ever since. Her latest Fall 2015 Collection is incredibly versatile, and I had a blast modeling some of my favorites from the line (more to come on that soon!). Don’t miss our Instagram Giveaway and your chance to snag some fabulous fall items from the collection.

Photography by: Carolina Mariana

Here’s more from the sweet Sophia:

Name: Sophia David
Age: 31
Current title/company name: Designer & Owner, Sophia Reyes, LLC
Years in operation: 8

What is your first memory of making [art]?

When I was younger, coloring contests were my jam. I won several coloring contests as a kid- including a year’s supply of Crayola!

How did your education or past work experience give you the confidence to go out on your own as a small business owner?

I come from a family of entrepreneurs. My parents encouraged creativity and instilled in us that it is vital to be savvy in business to be able to do what you love to do. It was only natural that I would become an entrepreneur.

Tell us about the process of launching your own business, Sophia Reyes. Best parts? Biggest challenge?

The best parts: seeing an idea, vision, or design come to fruition and then experiencing how people respond to it. The biggest challenge is balancing being a designer and a business owner.

What is your favorite part of the creative process? What inspires you and why?

Starting a new collection is always a breath of fresh air; combining colors, prints, and textures to convey a mood brings life to a new season.

What is the best advice you have for other female entrepreneurs/artists?

1. Do three things each week that will help grow your business. Sometimes it is easy to get wrapped up in day-to-day tasks as a small business owner. It is important to spend time looking at the big picture, your strategy, and long-run goals to continue growing your business.

2. Go for it. Have confidence in your work, and always ask for what you want.

Do you have a design philosophy, and if so, what is it?

Design is both function and inspiration. The best comment from customers is when I hear them say, “ I wear (insert said piece) all the time. I get a lot of compliments.” I’m over the moon when I hear this.

Imagine Sophia Reyes five years, how would you like to grow?

Design our own textile prints, expand the line into accessories, and open a storefront.

Do you have a most popular item?

Our limited edition printed kimonos have been a hit.

What do you enjoy most about the creative community in Chicago/Evanston?

Everyone knows each other and supports each other’s work.

Centered By Design is my business name, but it’s also the idea that we can find a bit of sanctuary each day through design, that good design can center us and make us feel great. Does your design process center you in any way? If so, how?

Designing and creating is part of who I am and what I love to do. I love its challenges (even the frustrating parts), the possibilities, and the opportunities to discover new techniques. It is my happy place!

Sophia’s Evanston & Chicago Favorites:

Favorite spot to get inspired: I can spend hours at any fabric or craft store. Blick Art Materials & Vogue Fabrics

Favorite restaurant: Found Kitchen and Social House

Favorite place to shop for home décor/furniture: Renegade Craft Market, Broadway Antique Market

Favorite place for coffee: Peet’s Coffee

Favorite place for a sweet treat: Pierrot Gourmet at the Peninsula Chicago

Thanks for letting us visit Sophia! Stay tuned for a fun look at styling my favorite EVER black jeans three ways with pieces from Sophia’s Fall 2015 collection. Hello, Autumn!

XO – CLAIRE