Views of Fashion: Sheila Frank

Continuing in our Inter-Views of Fashion series, we sat down with indie designer Shelia Frank and asked her to bestow upon us some insight on the wicked world of fashion. The designer and former intern for Charlotte Ronson gives us some details on her swimwear only Fall collection, designing for pets, and advice on becoming a fashion designer.

Swim 2008

Fashion Indie: For Fall 2008 you decided to focus your collection on swimwear, what was the concept behind the collection?Sheila Frank: I was very inspired by menswear.. Burlesque too! Ball gowns.. Old movies.. but mainly menswear.FI: You said that you like to design with the idea of using past eras, could you elaborate on that?SF: I love old esthetics of simple cuts and classic lines. As well as classic fit; old but modern. I actually have a collection that mixed three eras into one!FI: Many designers find aspects within their design that they focus on, whether it be style, wearablility, or extravagance. What are some important aspects behind your design?SF: Fit is VERY important. For me, it is important to fit every type of person out there- whether your thin or plus size. Volume doesn’t necessarily work for every body type; I like to work for everyone.

Swim 2007

FI: What do you want to accomplish as a designer?SF: I would like to have a line out there, and be in stores! I don’t care if I’m a diva superstar, or if people know my face, I just want people to know my brand and enjoy what they’re wearing.

Looks from Pet Fashion Week, TokyoFI: You recently created pieces for Pet Fashion Week. What was it like designing for our four-legged friends?SF: Well the show was actually in Tokyo! (On January 12 to be specific).. but I couldn’t attend… a stylist on ModelMayhem.com actually asked me to participate! I had designed a flapper era beaded dress.. he wanted me to design four more designs based on that look, then took the collection and paired it with a hat and dog designer! It was such a great experience.FI: Do you have any advice for young designers like yourself?SF: My motto is to believe in yourself. I’ve been thinking that in college, nothing is handed to you unless your born into a rich family ha-ha, just remember to be true to yourself.For more on Sheila Frank, CLICK HERE.