Please tell us a little about yourself
Name: Ciara Von Holten
Age: 27
Country: US
Passions: Art, Fashion, and writing
Favorite Quote: "No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world."
It’s obvious you have such a unique and well-defined sense of style. What types of clothes or outfits do you find yourself especially drawn to?
I am such a consumer of clothing that feels like art. I feel like clothing is such an extension of who we are as individuals, and its own form of expression. I am drawn to clothing that is comfortable but makes me feel confident and sexy. Bodysuits are a staple for me, they are elegant, flattering and easy to dress up or down. Second to that, if you know me, is my vintage dress and lingerie collection. I tend to reach for clothing that inspires me. This- paired with comfortable fit and sustainability is key to my personal closet.
How did you develop your sense of style and why is style and clothing important to you?
What is interesting about my relationship to clothing is that it reflects my relationship with myself. There was a time in my life where I had a hard time expressing myself at all- in all forms. When I wake up everyday and I put intention into choosing clothing that makes me feel confident, it's a choice. I'm choosing to put myself first and I'm making myself a priority, before anything else. I think that it's easy to lose that connection and practice of intention in our lives especially as we get older and take on more responsibilities. I am inspired a lot by vintage clothing. I love a timeless but unique and fun look. Growing up in a small town in the midwest there wasn't much access to fashion. I felt uninspired and uninterested in the lack of access in the market so I began to dive into vintage shops searching for something different! This led me to be able to experiment with new things, honing in on what I liked, and did not like with minimal risk and investment as a woman in my 20’s. I also noticed a lot of the clothing I was finding was a better quality and lasted longer than some of the fast fashion in my closet. I am inspired by 80’ and 90s fashion, with a modern twist and I will almost always reach for a good denim jumpsuit.
Have you received any formal training in marketing or the arts?
I attended the Academy of Art University in San Francisco! I will always draw my foundation as an artist back to my High Schools art room where I would spend my spare moments in Mr. Johnson and Mrs. Shores Art classroom. That is where I learned the foundations of art and was given encouragement to trust myself as an artist and now designer.
Has anyone, or anything, inspired your creativity and artistic passion?
At this point in my life, color inspires me alot! More recently, I am really diving into the connection between what art has played historically in our nation. Art has always been the voice of the people. I feel like artists take the experiences around them and create something from that pain and suffering that connects and unites people all across the board. I truly believe that the success of this world lies in creative thinkers and I think more support should be given to artists in the community since they are the ones who know how to create a safe space for a multitude of thoughts and experiences to meet, and converge. Creating something new. Something beautiful. I am inspired by Jean Basquiat, poetry, the stories and experiences of the people around me and my own experiences.
What made you want to join the ENVY clothing company?
As a woman I know how hard it is to find clothing that is comfortable, makes you feel confident and is good quality. I wanted to bridge that gap!
What most excites you about the future of ENVY clothing?
I am excited to be able to continue to create designs and content that inspire those around me!
Any advice you would like to share with young, aspiring marketing professionals?
Don't live your life watching people doing what you want to do from afar. Put yourself in that spot. The only thing that separates you from them is execution. Don't be so scared to fail that you never take a risk. I promise, it's always worth it. You deserve it. Growth occurs outside of your comfort zone!