I’m Yolanda Keil. I am a dreamer/former blogger and runway stylist/costumer ...
... I am Fringed Jewels.
Some Facts About Me:
- I am not the norm. I don’t follow traditional methodology. I prefer to learn the “rules”, and then boldly carve out my own unique niche (I have been called a rebel before.). I look for the unusual … the loopholes and gaps; seeking new opportunities.
- I spent a semester studying abroad in France (initially a month in Cannes, then Paris). It helped me see beyond “my little bubble”.
- I marched in a few parades at Mardi Gras. I was on the drill team of the Air Force ROTC freshman year at UF. Yep, I spun, tossed and twirled weapons (riffles formerly used in WWI, I believe). I decided that it wasn't a good fit for me (Please the see above comment on being a rebel.).
- I love working with other creatives ... It is very energizing.
- I have an image consulting background (trained via an accredited course approved by the Association of Image Consultants Int’l (AICI)). I often volunteered to host style seminars for the local “Dress for Success” chapter.
- My marketing and web content experience is quite diverse ... Job titles have included Consultant, Online Communications Editor, SEO Analytics Lead, Associate Marketing Manager, etc. You get it ... I have had a variety of roles ... The common thread is that I innately bring a fresh “eye”. I think outside of the box and see new possibilities. It’s bringing in that rebel ... questioning the norm to say “What if...?”
- I like to learn ... I taught myself html (to better control what my former blog looked like) and customized this site. I also taught myself how to use a sewing machine (with the help of an ebook and a Youtube video on threading a bobbin), although I prefer to hand-stitch (I use a machine for work projects.). I'm now learning the basics of Xcode. I am in the “dev phase” of building my app.
The Background Story:
I started experimenting with alterations ... I found my passion in channeling my unique style into my deconstructed & reworked clothes. I converted 90% of my packed closet (focusing on those rarely/never worn pieces) into a sustainable collection of funky creations that I couldn’t wait to wear.
I then applied that same deconstructed & reworked aesthetic to each crafted accessory. Each creation is truly a unique original with its own story ... an artistic celebration of creativity. The idea of a story behind each piece makes it more personal. This was the start of a wearable portfolio to showcase my stylist “eye”.
Adding My Style to Decor
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Old border stones reworked into stepping stones
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A pendant shade (see above pic) reworked into a lampshade
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| I instead hung my handcrafted dreamcatcher (first attempt) |
