Influenced by the lives and styles of women we admire, The Look was created to celebrate what the incredible women in our community are thinking, doing, and wearing. Inspired by our Head Designer, Lisa McEachern, this edition of The Look features the idea of breaking fashion rules - including mixing metals! Lisa has been at the forefront of our designs for over eleven years and is an original muse to H&B. She inspires us with her passion for design, as well as, her bold and eclectic personal style.
"I love jewellery for so many reasons; as a wearable form of art and self-expression, for their sentimental value, especially heirlooms."
What interested you in a career in jewellery design?I started making jewellery at around 10 years old. I have always loved it and from there I started my own business in high school and after it took off I decided to further that knowledge and attend school to learn the art of goldsmithing. The program I took was incredibly art & sculpture focused and encompassed a lot of art history drawing, painting, drafting and gemmology. I love jewellery for so many reasons; as a wearable form of art and self-expression, for their sentimental value, especially heirlooms.Where do you find inspiration when creating designs?I am in awe of the natural world and quite fascinated with the patterns and eccentricities that exist and are created by Mother Nature. I love fashion and trends, I also gravitate towards timelessness and look a lot to the past and history of art and design. How would you describe your personal style?My personal style is very eclectic and incorporates a lot of old and new. I love history, vintage clothing and accessories especially with modern elements.
"I love fashion and trends, I also gravitate towards timelessness and look a lot to the past and history of art and design."
What do you like most about wearing jewellery chains?Chains are such a great staple wardrobe item. You can mix and match, dress up or down, wear them on their own or layer for a more statement look. I wear some form of chain every day.
What is your opinion on traditional fashion rules such as not mixing patterns, don’t wear black and navy together, etc.?I feel like the rules do not apply. I really don’t adhere to any fashion rules. I love an eclectic fashion style and love mixing and matching. Is it faux pas to mix metal colours in jewellery?Absolutely not!What are your tips for layering jewellery?I always start at the top with some form of choker whether it’s a choker of gemstones or chain and then layer a few chains with pendants. I love this eclectic look and I love mixing metals.
"I feel compelled to create in some form every day and that’s what makes me feel happiest and most connected to the present moment."
What social causes are you most passionate about, and why?I am very passionate about natural health and healing as I am studying herbal medicine in my spare time. I am very concerned about sustainability and ways to live more connected and with respect to the planet.
What makes you feel empowered? Living my truth. Which is living a life full of creativity, which I feel is a basic human necessity and so many of us have been taught this is a luxury. I feel compelled to create in some form every day and that’s what makes me feel happiest and most connected to the present moment.
Amy Robichaud is the Chair of the Dress for Success Canada Foundation and the Executive Director of Dress for Success Vancouver. She spoke with us about her organization’s beneficial programs and world-class stylists. She also talked about the psychological power of fashion, community, and how she found advocacy and activism at a very young age. You’re going to want to get to know her.Could you talk a little bit about what Dress for Success in Canada is all about?
Our goal at Dress for Success in Canada is to empower women into good jobs, financial independence, and personal success. Our most well-known flagship services are our dressing services—we get women the attire they need for interviews and work. But we also provide free 1-on-1 career coaching for women who are looking for work and need help preparing for interviews, or want to build a better CV, or improve their linkedin profile, or who are trying to access government services. You name it. We also provide free mental health counseling with clinical practitioners for women who need that. We do workshops on everything from financial literacy, to managing your mental health, to balancing family and work, to heart health and taking care of yourself. We also do leadership programs and provide women who have found work with professional development guidance for up to one year free of charge.We’re working to democratize networking so that the women who come to Dress for Success in Canada have an equal opportunity to build the same professional, business, and peer networks that we all rely on and credit our success to.
“Our goal at Dress for Success in Canada is to empower women into good jobs, financial independence, and personal success.”
Why do you believe in partnerships between nonprofits and brands like H&B? What are some of the benefits of these kinds of relationships?
There is a very strict definition of what charity is, which is important, but there is also a broader concept of just doing good—being a good citizen and showing up for your community. We all have the responsibility to do that. So partnerships like the one Dress for Success Canada has with Hillberg and Berk are important because we work together to broaden the idea of a product. We try to create something that emphasizes what a product can do for a community, and for the people in that community. We work together to help make this concept of “doing good” a more accessible, attainable thing. Being part of a community means you have a responsibility to and for each other. Our partnership with H&B exemplifies that. We take care of each other. That’s community. And when you find the right partnership, it’s like finding the right outfit. It all comes together.
“Being part of a community means you have a responsibility to and for each other. Our partnership with H&B exemplifies that. We take care of each other. That’s community. And when you find the right partnership, it’s like finding the right outfit. It all comes together.”
Has this kind of advocacy work always been something you envisioned yourself doing?
The advocacy that I do for economic inclusion for women, and equity in general, is deeply personal. I grew up with a lot of privilege in some ways, but in other ways, I experienced just how difficult it was for women to succeed. My mother is the strongest, most amazing woman I know. She was our family’s breadwinner for most of my childhood. She had to be a bulldozer. I grew up with a very powerful and present example of what it meant to be a woman who was struggling to provide for her family and succeed in the economy. She did what she needed to do, but it shouldn’t have been so hard for her.Were there any moments earlier in life that you look back on now as indications you’d be well-suited to this kind of work?
I gave my first advocacy speech before I had words. I stood on the hearth in a nightgown and impassionately intoned something to my family for several minutes. It’s a pretty straight line in my brain from that moment to lecturing adults for littering at age seven, to joining the debate team at 12, to going to university for public policy and political theory. I was raised in a family that made a point of talking about what was going on in the world. A lot of families say that politics and religion are things you should keep away from the dinner table, but that was our dinner table. Those conversations gave me the ability to see injustices and to decide to care about them.
Who are some of your role models?
My mom is always at the top of my list. There’s a lot of women, or people, in their thirties who wake up one day, look in the mirror, and say: “Oh my god I look like my parents.” For me it’s like, “Yup, there’s my mom.” And that’s a great feeling because I admire her and she’s taught me a ton.
Also, Roberta Bondar. I spent a lot of my childhood wanting to be an astronaut before I realized that math was not a strong suit for me. Roberta broke barriers and, while she did, talked about being a woman in a place where it wasn’t considered normal. I saw her doing something that women weren’t doing with grace and determination, and she always spoke about it with eloquence while advocating for other women to get involved. I actually got to meet her as an adult. She was the most gracious human. So that was pretty phenomenal.
“There’s a lot of women, or people, in their thirties who wake up one day, look in the mirror, and say: “Oh my god I look like my parents.” For me it’s like, “Yup, there’s my mom.” And that’s a great feeling because I admire her and she’s taught me a ton.”
Could you share a Dress for Success Vancouver story that has been especially important to you?
A client came in last year who was looking for a second job to cover the cost of school supplies for her kids, and she ended up going through the dressing service process. During the process, she shared her story of becoming a refugee—how she fled her home country to ensure the safety of her children because her husband had broken both of her legs. She told us all this information while trying to find shoes that wouldn’t hurt her, because she never healed properly. It feels like such a small thing for us to be able to say: “We have shoes that will fit and feel great.” That’s such a small thing for us, but for her it was the first time shoes hadn’t hurt her feet in years, and she left feeling confident about getting a second job to help her kids.
We had another client who’d been unemployed since before the pandemic. She’d worked in the tech sector and hadn’t found work in a long time. Ageism was a huge part of her situation. She’s smart and educated and has held senior roles, but after 3 years she was feeling so beaten down with “no’s” (and a global crisis) that she’d completely lost her sense of self. No one had helped her. She was referred to us and we offered her counseling with a clinical psychologist so she could have someone to talk to. After that, she came in for a dressing service, and again, for the first time in years, this was the place where people saw her, acknowledged her, helped her, and believed in her. So, those are two very different clients, but it is as meaningful for both of them to be able to access our services.
“When a client leaves, she leaves with a bag full of new-to-her clothing and a literal arsenal of tools and resources to help her feel better.”
Given that you typically try on clothes with a friend or family member, does the dressing service create a unique intimacy and opportunity to talk about physical and mental health?
There’s this sort of innate trust and vulnerability that comes with trying on clothes and being in a changeroom with other women. Our stylists do so much more than put them in beautiful, confidence-building attire. They listen, they offer other services we have, they commiserate, and empathize. They share their own experiences and they build trust and, when a client leaves, she leaves with a bag full of new-to-her clothing and a literal arsenal of tools and resources to help her feel better.Styling revolves around the psychological concept of enclothed cognition, which is the meaning and symbolism that we give to clothing. For example, we associate a doctor’s white coat with authority and intelligence. Studies have shown we’ll actually give more trust to somebody in a lab coat than someone who is not. But we also do that with ourselves. We all have a version of our own power suit—the jeans that make us feel the best, the shirt that we stand tallest in, and the shoes that we stand straighter in. It’s hard to pinpoint what it is, but something happens when we style people—the clothes allow their natural confidence to shine through, and it becomes more about the woman than the clothes we put her in. It becomes about how she feels in her body and not her body itself.
“Something happens when we style people—the clothes allow their natural confidence to shine through, and it becomes more about the woman than the clothes we put her in. It becomes about how she feels in her body and not her body itself.”
At H&B we like to talk about women “rising together”. Can you tell us about some of the relationships you’ve formed with other women through this work? How important are those relationships to your outlook and general wellbeing?
In our community at Dress for Success Canada we always talk about “lifting as we rise” and I think that’s one of the reasons our partnership with Hillberg & Berk is such a good fit. There’s a definitive brand alignment there. This organization is the only place I’ve worked in gender advocacy where it’s impossible to tell the clients, volunteers, and staff apart. Part of the reason that’s so difficult is because we have clients who have become volunteers, volunteers who have become clients, clients who have become staff, and staff who have accessed our services. Every last one of us has some way they can learn, be lifted, or rise, and we all have the ability to do that for someone else.
I know it’s really frowned upon in business literature to talk about your staff as a family, but it’s so hard for me not to feel that way with the people I work with because there is this sense of holistic community to what we do. What I felt from the very beginning through Hillberg & Berk and through the branding, through the jewellery, through Share Your Sparkle, was this alignment with Rachel’s vision. She’s built a team that doesn't just talk about this idea of “helping people rise,” but who believe it themselves. This true values alignment made all our conversations about creating and building a partnership publicly as easy as breathing. There’s a magic in it that I don’t know how to describe otherwise.
“Every last one of us has some way they can learn, be lifted, or rise, and we all have the ability to do that for someone else.”
Can you talk a little bit about the styling process at Dress for Success in Vancouver? Have you seen any great looks that you’d like to share?
Some of the best celebrity stylists are located in Vancouver and many of them choose to give their time back to our organization. It’s pretty amazing how someone who has just finished dressing people for the Golden Globes will be here the next day helping style a woman who is trying to get a second job. You see the difference in someone who professionally knows how to build confidence in someone and find pieces that are appropriate for their body and match their personality. Our stylists always show me what a powerful form of self-expression clothing can be. It’s nice to be able to see people receive that gift.It seems like it would be important to feel confident and ready for anything while doing this crucial advocacy work. Is there any jewellery that helps you feel this way?
I have a gold locket that’s been with my family for generations that my great aunt gave to me. That’s a piece that helps me do this work because I put it on and I feel like I have this lineage of women with me. I also have an M necklace with diamonds in it. Both my mother and grandmother have the same one because we all share the same middle name. We call ourselves the 3 Marlenes. So, when I wear that it makes me feel deeply connected to them and I know they’re with me. There’s something about when I put those pieces on—there’s extra power in it.Ok, I promise I’m not just saying this because we’re having this conversation for Hillberg & Berk, but I bought the Leopard print Sparkle Balls™ as soon as they came out, and they’ve landed as part of my wardrobe on the regular. They’re fun. They’re fierce. They’re a little edgy, but they also go with everything and I get compliments on them all the time. They’ve become part of that enclothed cognition where if I need a little extra help one day, one of my family necklaces and the Sparkle Balls™ are going on.
Writing: Carter Selinger
The Dress for Success Ambassador Program is a diverse and inclusive skill development program that creates leadership opportunities for its participants. By sharing their stories during workshops and events, former clients become volunteers and representatives of Dress for Success Vancouver. It’s a way for community members to continue learning while giving back. Let’s meet some Dress for Success ambassadors!
Silvia
A glass ceiling represents a barrier that women experience in the workplace and prohibits them from success. How have you shattered glass ceilings?
I work in a male-dominated field. It’s changing little by little. More women are working in logistics, but very few have moved into leadership positions. I do my best at work and encourage other women to do the same. We have to support each other. The Vice President of our company is a woman, and she is an inspiration to me.
In what ways has Dress for Success made an impact on your life and why did you choose to be an ambassador?
Dress for Success always welcomes and supports women with respect no matter where they are in life. It’s been four years now since I went for my first fitting appointment. Since then, I have had many other opportunities through Dress for Success: I received valuable networking opportunities with the Professional Women’s Group, I’ve attended professional workshops and been given immeasurable support. This organization gave me an opportunity to truly connect with other professional women, listen to their life stories, and also share mine. I’m a proud Dress for Success Vancouver Ambassador and I want to give back to this community.
“Confidence is believing that you’re able to do whatever you want. It’s the knowledge that you have the tools, the ability and power, and the infinite capacity to learn.”
What does confidence mean to you?
Confidence is believing that you’re able to do whatever you want. It’s the knowledge that you have the tools, the ability and power, and the infinite capacity to learn. But it’s easy to forget those things. That’s why being surrounded by trusting people who encourage and remind you of what you can do is so priceless.
Sanam
A glass ceiling represents a barrier that women experience in the workplace/in their careers. How have you shattered glass ceilings?
I shattered the glass ceiling by speaking out and expressing what I needed. I remember situations in the past where I tried to follow my goal while ignoring these barriers, but that approach required so much extra effort.
“I shattered the glass ceiling by speaking out and expressing what I needed.”
In what ways has Dress for Success made an impact on your life and why did you choose to be an ambassador?
I feel more energetic and powerful in so many different situations. The Professional Women’s Group taught me that when I encounter a problem, the first thing I should do is draw up a plan and then take action. I chose to be an ambassador to keep in touch with the amazing people I’ve met through Dress For Success, and to create more networking opportunities.
Who or what inspires you everyday to step outside of your comfort zone
Both my manager and mentor at Dress for Success are sources of inspiration. I’m inspired by people who are excited to communicate and learn new things.
Tracy
A glass ceiling represents a barrier that women experience in the workplace and prohibits them from success. How have you shattered glass ceilings?
I have done this several times in my journey both as a student and during my career. I became the first female Secretary General of my student union in a highly competitive election. Despite my colleagues thinking it would be impossible, I received a commonwealth scholarship for my MSc while heavily pregnant with my daughter. In my career I was able to broker a peaceful resolution with local communities, government, and oil companies on issues surrounding oil exploitation. I developed the first-ever multi-stakeholder mechanism, an act that most of my colleagues had given up on.
“It’s helpful for women, especially immigrant women and women from minority groups, to hear stories like mine as they continue on their journeys.”
In what ways has Dress for Success made an impact on your life and why did you choose to be an ambassador?
The knowledge I gained from their workshops and the amazing network of women I’ve met through this organization have been invaluable. That’s why I contribute to the growth of Dress for Success. It’s helpful for women, especially immigrant women and women from minority groups, to hear stories like mine as they continue on their journeys.Why is giving back so important to you?
It allows me to build relationships with people in my local community and learn about different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. And, most importantly, it helps my mental health. I feel happy knowing I’m giving back to society.
Marie
A glass ceiling represents a barrier that women experience in the workplace and prohibits them from success. How have you shattered glass ceilings?
I’ve been involved in many positions in my professional career where I've been asked to contribute ideas for women’s empowerment initiatives, but the lack of actual support at these organizations caused me to struggle to achieve my career goals. It wasn’t until I joined the Professional Women’s Group—after partaking in the mentorship program and curated workshops—that I achieved a longstanding career goal. The Professional Women’s Group mentorship program empowered me to take action and shatter my career barriers. It rebuilt my persistence and tenacity—critical traits that helped me overcome barriers and pivot into a better-fitting job that aligned with my personal values.
“The impact has been profoundly positive and nudged me towards wanting to be an Ambassador as a way to give back to the community and help other women shatter the barriers in their lives.”
In what ways has Dress for Success made an impact on your life and why did you choose to be an ambassador?
Dress For Success has not only introduced me to a network of women that support and nurture me, it has also equipped me with practical life lessons that transformed my personal and professional life. The impact has been profoundly positive and nudged me towards wanting to be an Ambassador as a way to give back to the community and help other women shatter the barriers in their lives. I’m excited to begin the next chapter with Dress For Success as an ambassador, and to impart my newfound knowledge and confidence to help others succeed on their Dress For Success journeys.
What motivates you to be a changemaker?
The need and desire to make a difference drives me to be a changemaker. I believe a small change can go a long way, and that’s what motivates me to get involved and participate in my community as a changemaker.
H&B at Dress for Success Vancouver, participating in Ambassador Suiting Programs, Winter 2022
Writing: Carter Selinger
Hailing from Saskatchewan, Kiteen Marie is a small town fashion blogger who has cultivated an amazing online community. She spoke with us about how her blog helped her rediscover her personal taste—an aspect of her identity briefly lost during her experiences with early motherhood. It’s easy to see why so many moms across the globe have connected with Kiteen’s personal story, and her earnest excitement for motherhood, fashion, and self-love.
How did you start your career as a digital creator?
I started a blog (formerly known as Kiteen’s Closet) shortly after giving birth to my firstborn, Violet. I remember feeling like I couldn’t remember who I was or what I liked to do before becoming a Mom. Kiteen’s Closet started as a hobby and as a way for me to find joy & passion in something again outside of being a Mother. It became a career when I realized the impact sharing my everyday life and desires for confidence & self-love was having on Mom’s across the globe who were feeling exactly like I was.
“I realized the impact sharing my everyday life and desires for confidence & self-love was having on Mom’s across the globe who were feeling exactly like I was.”
As a lifestyle blogger a lot of people look to you for influence and inspiration, who do you look to for inspiration?
Other lifestyle bloggers, mainly! One of my biggest inspirations for starting my own blog was because I would regularly read fashion posts from people like Jillian Harris, Loverly Grey, and Cara Loren.
How do you balance all the aspects of your life; your self care, fashion, your career, and young kids and family?
I try my best to set aside specific chunks of time in the day for all the tasks/roles I have. It definitely is a balancing act, and one that I have yet to master! However, I have found that making a priority list in the evening for what I need to achieve the next day has helped me tremendously with time management.
How do you want people to feel when they visit your digital channels, like your Instagram or blog?
I want them to feel inspired. I want women (and in particular other Mom’s) to see a photo of me and think to themselves “Hey – I kinda look like her! Maybe I could wear that too.” I want women to feel confident in who they are and confident in the body they are in. I hope to inspire the same type of self-love & acceptance that I have for myself in other women.
“I want women to feel confident in who they are and confident in the body they are in. I hope to inspire the same type of self-love & acceptance that I have for myself in other women.”
You have an extensive background in Agriculture, are there any misconceptions about the industry?
Yes, but gosh – where do I start?! Lol. There are many misconceptions in regards to Agriculture and Farming. It seems people still have an image of a man in overalls, holding a pitchfork with a piece of straw between his teeth when they hear the term “Farmer”. Farmers (and people in the Agriculture Industry as a whole) are businessmen and women. Some of the smartest people I have ever met work in Agriculture! I wish there was more appreciation and knowledge of the technological advances and evolvement within the Agriculture Industry.
How would you describe your personal style?
Feminine, affordable, mom-friendly.
Living in a small town, do you shop more online or locally? What are your top online shopping tips?
I definitely shop more online, but do think it’s important to also shop local when possible! One of the reasons I love online shopping is because it is easier to make conscious purchase decisions online. For example, if I really, really think I want/need something – I will put it in my online shopping cart for a few days while I ponder the pros and cons of purchasing that item. I also always try to wait for a sale when I’m shopping online – most retailers seem to set their sales to go live on the weekends!
What is your favourite Hillberg & Berk jewellery piece?
It’s so hard to pick just one! I have accumulated quite a collection of Hillberg & Berk pieces over the years that I feel are timeless and that I wear regularly. I think Sparkle Balls™ are so iconic to the Hillberg & Berk brand and will forever be a favourite of mine. I also really love the new “Designed By You” Charm Necklace!
What are some of your favourite ways to style camo, and incorporate this trend into other styles and fashion? Do you have any favourite camo pieces?
My favourite way to incorporate camo is in subtle ways – like my jewelry! The new Camo Sparkle collection is the perfect way to integrate this trend as the neutral, natural-toned print is easy to pair with a variety of looks.
“The new Camo Sparkle collection is the perfect way to integrate this trend as the neutral, natural-toned print is easy to pair with a variety of looks.”
What social causes are you passionate about and why?
I’m passionate about doing my part to end world hunger - especially in children. Being a Mom from a farming family drives my desire to help ensure healthy foods are available to those that currently don’t have access to it.
What makes you feel most empowered and why?Seeing women like me (stay at home Mom’s, women in their 30’s) live out their dreams and follow their passions!
Meet Jess Moskaluke—internationally celebrated, award-winning country music star and collaborator behind our newest Handpicked by Jess box with her other H&B must-haves. In this edition of Know Her, we chatted with Jess about her style, accomplishments, inspirations, and some of the important causes she works to support.
"Inspiration can strike from anywhere at any time. It’s about knowing when to catch it and how to turn it into something beautiful.”
What are your sources of inspiration for writing songs?
Usually it’s life experience, but I’ve also used situations friends were going through, book and movie quotes, and even Twitter parody pages for inspiration in the past. It really varies—inspiration can strike from anywhere at any time. It’s about knowing when to catch it and how to turn it into something beautiful.
How would you describe your style?
I’m a bit of a chameleon, I suppose. On stage I like to have tons of sparkle and edge. But on red carpets I like to be really polished and glam. When I’m at home, I’m definitely the girl next door and as comfortable as possible.
“When I’m at home, I’m definitely the girl next door and as comfortable as possible.”
What's your biggest, boldest ambition for the future?
I’d love to do my own headlining tour in the future. Hopefully sooner rather than later!
What social causes are you passionate about?
I love to support the MS Society of Canada. I lost my dad to Multiple Sclerosis just after my 16th birthday, so I’ve always done what I can to direct money and awareness their way. I’m also a huge supporter of animal rescues. Not one in particular—I love to spread the love and have adopted dogs from 3 different organizations over the past 10 years.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Honestly this is such a tough one. Professionally, I’m proud of being the first woman in Canadian country music to have a platinum selling single since Shania Twain. I also can’t believe I have multiple CCMA awards and even a Juno. But, on a more personal level, I’m most proud of writing the song “Mapdot." I think that song resonates with a lot of small town people, from hometowns like mine, and makes them feel proud of where they’re from.
"I’m most proud of writing the song “Mapdot." I think that song resonates with a lot of small town people, from hometowns like mine, and makes them feel proud of where they’re from.”
Do you have a favourite Hillberg & Berk jewellery piece?
How do you pick just one? No, really. The one I’ve been wearing the most lately is the rose gold Mary Toggle Bracelet. I love anything dainty that levels up your wardrobe. I also love stacking hoop earrings since I have my ears double pierced.
What is your favourite thing about your career?
Performing! My love and passion for singing and performing is what got me into this career. It’s what I look forward to the most, it’s what I miss when I’m not doing it, and it’s what gets me through the peaks and valleys of a music career. There are hundreds of benefits and other parts of this gig that I love, but to strip it all down, it’s the singing.
Who is the woman (or one of the women) who most inspires you, and makes you feel empowered?
There are so many amazing women that I work with every day that help keep my career on the rails. You all know who you are. But I’m so proud to be a woman in a male-dominated business, working alongside other women who are just as hardworking and badass as every other person in this business.
“I’m so proud to be a woman in a male-dominated business, working alongside other women who are just as hardworking and badass as every other person in this business.”
What is the best thing about where you grew up?
Small town people prepared me for my career in so many ways. I was lucky enough to dip my foot into band class, choir, and even a bit of musical theatre. I was happy to find the music industry to be like one big small town in a lot of ways. Everybody knows everybody. Everyone’s worked with someone at some point, or heard about them. So that feels very comforting to me.
Why did you want to partner with H&B?
I LOVE supporting and partnering with local businesses. I was a fan of H&B products even before I knew they’d started locally in Saskatchewan. After hearing how Rachel got her start, and how she continues to grow her business and give back as much as she does, I knew our brands aligned, and that this was a company I could gladly stand behind. After working with them a few times over the last year, I can’t imagine a better, more inspiring, encouraging, fun, and beautiful partnership.
Writing: Carter Selinger
We spoke with Canadian artist, Angela Morgan, about jewellery, colour, inspiration, her creative process, and her recent collaboration with H&B. Morgan comments on how she gets intense joy from human interactions, and then paints that joy. At H&B, we feel connected to the boldness, confidence, and vibrancy of Angela’s art, and were excited to work with her on the design of Debut Sparkle. Above all, we hope this new Debut Collection brightens your day.
“There can be a lot of dark days for people and if we can bring something into the world that makes people happy or brings some joy—that’s what I’m trying to do with my work. I love beautiful things. That’s what I endeavour to paint.”
If you could pick one work to describe yourself, what would it be and why?
The painting we did to complement the collection is 100% me. My inner goddess definitely has fiery orange hair and a big hat. I think I missed my century. I belong in an era where you dress up for dinner and wear gloves. That painting captures how I often feel. I might not always look that fabulous, but I aspire to exude that type of energy.
Tell us about your creative process. Do you have a daily routine?
When I’m at home and in my studio in Fernie, it’s rare for me to take a day off. I’m very fortunate to have a career that doesn’t feel like work. Most days I try to paint in 3 hour blocks—one in the morning, one in the afternoon, and, if I can, an evening session. I’m usually working on 20 to 30 paintings at any given time. My favourite part of the creative process is the beginning—that initial mark-making, the gestures, and brushstrokes that get onto the canvas. It’s exciting. There’s no mistakes. You’re free with your ideas and not married to any one outcome. But beginning a painting often requires a lot of energy so that’s usually a morning session. Evenings are reserved for more thoughtful work—now I’m done 90% of this painting and I’m trying to give it the focussed attention it needs.
How long does it take you to paint a piece?
A 3x3 foot painting takes me between 8-10 hours. But that 8-10 hours varies depending on the composition. A painting with a single figure in it is simpler. You’re not working through as many problems as you are with a painting that has a group of people. When I first started painting, a 3x3 foot painting would have taken about 25 hours. I’ve been painting full-time for 20 years now and you start to get better technically with colour mixing. You get a better eye and you know a bit more about your own vision. What’s in my head comes out a lot quicker than it did 20 years ago.
What advice would you give to your younger self? Or any young women starting their professional or artistic career?
Don’t despair and be kind to yourself. It’s really easy to be disappointed with yourself. I had moments where I thought “Oh, this painting is no good,” but there was always something good in it. You just had to look harder sometimes. I was probably overly dramatic about what I perceived to be failures. Those “failures” were never the huge setbacks I thought they were at the time. I take comfort in knowing that creating art and putting it out into the world is hopefully a lifelong pursuit. At twenty I thought, “Oh, I’m never going to make it,” but eventually if you do enough of something you’re going to get it right. So just keep going. I hope when I’m 80 or 90 I’m going to be producing my best work. And why not? At that time I’ll have a lifetime of experiences behind me. Don’t despair. Keep going. Drink more wine, relax, and just enjoy what you do (laughs).
"So just keep going. I hope when I’m 80 or 90 I’m going to be producing my best work. And why not? At that time I’ll have a lifetime of experiences behind me. Don’t despair. Keep going. Drink more wine, relax, and just enjoy what you do."
Why did you want to collaborate with H&B?
I grew up in Saskatchewan and have known of Rachel for quite a while because she was a collector of my works. So that was very fortunate. Hillberg and Berk is a jewelry company but it’s also so much more. H&B aligns itself with a really positive existence. There can be a lot of dark days for people and if we can bring something into the world that makes people happy or brings some joy—that’s what I’m trying to do with my work. I love beautiful things. That’s what I endeavour to paint. When Rachel first approached me, she said, “Can we work a painting into a collection?” And I was like “Yeah! What colours are you thinking?” Having her team lay out what their colour vision was and using it as a jumping off point to create something—that was incredibly exciting for me. The whole experience felt aligned with my creative process.
Tell us about the painting you’ve done for this H&B collection?
There was a lot of thought that went into the composition and ideology around this debut. We chose one woman to be front and center with the idea that she was sort of coming out of the canvas and stepping into the real world.
What do you hope our customers will feel wearing this Debut collection?
I hope they feel...I might say fabulous, and like the world is a great place. With the exception of everything going on, I hope they find they can put on these gorgeous colours and be like, “I’m wearing this piece because it reminds me I’m a vibrant person, and I deserve things that make me feel wonderful.”
“I hope they find they can put on these gorgeous colours and be like, “I’m wearing this piece because it reminds me I’m a vibrant person, and I deserve things that make me feel wonderful.”
Can you talk about why it’s important for you to have joy as a central theme in your art? And how figurative painting allows you to do this?
What’s important in my life is my connections with people—my family, my children, my friends. I get intense joy from human interactions. I try to paint that joy. It’s not as if my garden isn’t inspiring. But I’ll paint my garden and then I’ll look at the painting and say: “I love how the geraniums melded in with the petunias, and then I’m like “ehh, this is kinda boring. This needs a person!” 99.9% of my work is grounded in some physical form. I would like to be a lot more brooding and contemporary and edgy. But then I’m like, “Well maybe just one more polka dot, maybe a pink polka dot, maybe some yellow, and oh we need blue now!” And I’ll get up in the morning and be like, “That’s just another happy painting.” And then I’m like “Screw it. I guess this is just what I do.” When I look at a painting or art I generally just want to feel good, and that’s what I’ve tried to generate in my work for 20 years. A positive emotion that just makes me happy.
Do you find yourself considering the inner lives of these figures you paint?
Sometimes. I might get a painting with four or five women and I’m like “Oh my god, she’s the bossy one. Look at her gestures! There’s a small narrative that goes on in my head, which makes painting fun. I’m trying to capture a moment in time. While I paint, I’ll often find myself reflecting on memories. I’ll be like “Oh wasn’t that a wonderful moment at my friend’s wedding when the groom looked back at his mom and his mom was like “Yes! Get on with it. Say I do.” I’m not necessarily painting specific people, but these kinds of memories fuel my inspiration. But I do want to leave it up to the viewer. Most people usually identify with a character in the work because it reminds them of their aunt, their grandma, or themselves when they were little. So I don’t try to be too specific and go, “Hey, this is mom and daughter.” Hopefully when people view my work it triggers a memory for them that’s different from mine but just as meaningful.
Do you have a favourite Hillberg & Berk jewellery piece?
I probably have about eight pairs of Sparkle Balls™. They’re just iconic. Six of the pairs have been given to me as gifts. People will say, “I just saw this colour and it made me think of you, which I think is really interesting.” I also have a gorgeous necklace with these beautiful jewel tones with gold in it, and it’s very special. I throw a lot of dinner parties and like to have a small dress code when you’re invited to my house. Obviously, I’m not going to impose, but I have a great closet and some gorgeous jewels, and that necklace is one piece that is always a go-to if my friends come over and want to bump up their outfit.
Often the faces of the people (or figures) in your work are obscured by large, fun hats. Can you talk about why this is a recurring theme for you?
I started to struggle painting eyes in my work maybe 11 or 12 years ago, and I just didn’t like them anymore. And I thought, “Well, what if I just tilted that hat a little bit?” So I did a couple of paintings and realized that obscuring the eyes wasn’t taking anything away from the painting for me. I started to put them out there and the feedback was interesting because most people didn’t notice. Maybe there was a presence in the figure that stood true, even without the eyes. And my sense with the eyes was—if I didn’t get them right—the painting was ruined. Hiding the eyes got to be really fun. It’s just something that I was technically having trouble with so I found a different solution that I really enjoyed. And, now I’m painting a few more eyes too, so, here we go. (laughs).
"What’s important in my life is my connections with people—my family, my children, my friends. I get intense joy from human interactions. I try to paint that joy."
Tell us about a woman who has inspired you or does inspire you?
I guess I always look close to home for my inspiration. Personal interaction is very important to me. I’ve been blessed with many wise people that I consider mentors, or inspirations. Off the top of my head, my grandma. She lived to be 100 years old—and I might cry here—but she was just such a lovely woman. She was the matriarch of our family. She gave love every day. She created beautiful things in her kitchen and did these beautiful little landscape paintings. She was steadfast in her creation of community and love.
Writing: Carter Selinger
Influenced by the lives and styles of women we admire, The Look was created to celebrate what the incredible women in our community are thinking, doing, and wearing. This week on The Look, we’re featuring mother-daughter duo, Paula Collins and Jasmyn Pingue. We chatted with Paula and Jasmyn about their modelling agency, Masala Model & Talent, their personal style, as well as their advocacy for racial equality. They inspire us with their authenticity, bold sense of style and passion for uplifting young women and girls.
"We’re strongly passionate about developing our talent to bring out their best qualities and managing their careers on a local, national and international level."
What interested you in owning a model agency?
PAULA: My modelling agent moved from Saskatoon, SK to Whiterock, BC to expand her agency. There was a lot of projects left in Saskatoon that needed talent for bookings. I wanted to continue a legacy that was established in our province and beyond.
What advice would you give to women wanting to start their own journey with entrepreneurship?
PAULA: Always follow your dreams, research, be bold in taking a leap. Not everyone will support you so be ready to take on tasks alone and continue to believe in yourself. Be ready for disappointments, keep going, you got this!
JASMYN: Start with what brings you joy, passion, and fulfilment. Having a great support system for encouragement and advice is wonderful to have. It’s extremely important if you are proceeding alone, and never stop rooting for yourself. Everyone deserves a life that brings you success. You’re special and amazing!
"Stand proud of your accomplishments no matter how big or small they may seem."
What’s it like running a business as a mother/daughter duo?
PAULA/JASMYN: We enjoy working together and we have a great relationship. At times we need space from each other to decompress; then we come back more rejuvenated. Having the creative freedom to express ourselves and cohesively work in the fashion, fine arts, and entertainment industry with endless opportunities is truly phenomenal! We’re strongly passionate about developing our talent to bring out their best qualities and managing their careers on a local, national and international level.
Not only are we like-minded, but we also share the same birthday!
How would you describe your personal style?
PAULA: For work, stylish coordinates that have some colour and accent my curves. For casual, anything that flows.
JASMYN: My style consists of a variety of eclectic styles with a creative personal touch. I love a great statement shoe!
We both love freedom and comfort that is fashionable. It’s important to be your own individual outside of following trends.
"I believe jewellery is a creative reflection of your personal style."
Why do you think jewellery is important in completing an outfit?
PAULA: Jewellery always brings life to an outfit. It makes a statement that is personal to you that can be memorable and timeless.
JASMYN: I believe jewellery is a creative reflection of your personal style. Simple as styling a black dress instantly enhances and boots your self-esteem.
What fashion advice would you give to your younger self and why?
PAULA: Always start with the basics then add on pieces to expand your wardrobe. You are fierce and amazing, be your authentic self, because there is no one like you.
JASMYN: The best fashion advice I’ve been given is: “dress the way you want to be addressed." Confidence is key! You can quickly lose your poise if you’re not comfortable in what you’re wearing; the right clothing or garments can lend you the right attitude. The rest has to come within.
What life advice would you give to your younger self and why?
PAULA: Believe in yourself! This advice is from my parents and still holds true today for me: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. PROVERBS 3: 5-6. This advice is life!
JASMYN: This has always been applied throughout my life…you are worthy, unique and loved. Always believe in yourself, never give up, you can achieve anything your hearts desire. You deserve it! Stand proud of your accomplishments no matter how big or small they may seem. No matter what others say, stand true to your morals and ethics.
"As Black women, we have a responsibility to speak up for racism, injustice and inequality."
What social causes are you passionate about, and why?
PAULA/JASMYN: We are both passionate about building our community, Black Lives Matter and mentoring youth and young adults to strengthen their mental health and well being. We want a strong and unified community that brings people from all walks of life together in harmony. As Black women, we have a responsibility to speak up for racism, injustice and inequality. The youth and young adults need a safe environment and support without the stigmas of race, gender, bullying and abuse.
"We are both passionate about building our community, Black Lives Matter and mentoring youth and young adults to strengthen their mental health and well being."
What makes you feel empowered?
PAULA/JASMYN: Having a supportive family and knowing the hard work and dedication to the causes we’ve served have been rewarding. Giving gratitude each day and give thanks, to the most high. Without God, we would not be here to share this. Share your gift and true passions with the world, as you were put on this earth to make a difference. Lastly, be intentional and have control over what you do and stand for.
Click here to shop The Look.
@masalamodeltalent@jasmyn.naomirunwayWardrobe by Klassique Designs Snakeskin Sandals: Traxx Footwear
Writing: Carter Selinger
Life as a Canadian Model Abroad
Hi! I’m Melissa
As the face of the Hillberg & Berk Valentine’s Day campaign and international model living in China, I often have conversations about how glamorous it is to have a career as a model.
It’s funny—it seems those outside the industry associate modeling with luxurious travel, designer wardrobes and fashionable parties.
Don’t get me wrong—I love my job; however, the truth about modeling is that it often entails long hours, demanding working conditions and major commitment.
Here are a few of my favourite modeling myths to remind you that models are normal women, with flaws, challenges and ambition!
Myth #1: Penthouse suite, anyone?
Unless you are Kendall or Gigi, the accommodation arrangement for many models (like me) means shared space.
Imagine sharing one bathroom and kitchen with 9 other people! The upside to shared living is that women who start out as strangers become like your family. You celebrate special days, like Christmas and birthdays, together because we are all away from our homes and families.
I have had so many wonderful people come in and out of my life throughout my career, but this is what models do. We are constantly on the move.
Myth #2: Private jets and first class
More like last minute plane rides, public transportation and even scooters.
From castings, to fittings, to shoots, models often need to travel all the time. I have become very good at getting around foreign places because my career depends on it.
Myth #3: Everyday's like Sunday
Sleeping in, lounging in PJs, slow-moving mornings. Sounds nice, right? Well, my days are nothing like that.
Think: 200+ outfit changes in one day, 30-40 poses in 60 seconds or less, high heels for hours and no personal space.Or, think of being in a room with 150 beautiful women and feeling vulnerable and exposed at a casting.
In this industry you need thick skin, perseverance and a little grit to get by.
Now that I have painted a more accurate image of my life as a model, you must be wondering, is it worth it?
Even though at times all I want is the comfort of home (or just a baked potato), I wouldn’t change anything. This industry is not for everyone, but it has broadened my perspective and taken me to places some people only dream about.
I have discovered new cultures, new fashion styles and learned Mandarin and even some Portuguese.I am so lucky to have the opportunity to meet so many nice people along the way and I have friends now from all over the world.
If you chase a dream that ignites your passion, you will discover your very own pot of gold (with or without the private jet).
