The Outer Box

Today’s interview is with Jillian Parker Gishler, Fashion designer and owner of Sew Vicious Boutique. I had the opportunity over the last several weeks to see the shop during the renovation. After lots of hard work, the store turned out great!
Tell us the concept behind Sew Vicious…
Sew Vicious is a independent craft market of sorts. It is filled with one of a kind, handmade items made locally or from around the world. It is place  that supports independent artists, designers and musicians. Being a designer myself, I have for years sold my goods on consignment all over the country. I know just how difficult it can be to find shops to carry their handmade, and limited quantity goods. To be able to provide an outlet for up and coming designers and artists like myself is what Sew Vicious is all about. 
The name is killer! Where did the idea come from?
Sid Vicious is my miniature poodle who is not vicious at all, and I liked the play on the word sew. Simple as that, really. 
What inspired you you to open up a shop? Especially in these turbulent economic times?
Opening up a shop was always a dream of mine, but definitely not something I thought would happen any time soon. At my last fashion show in July for my clothing line, Simone, I received a huge push from some amazing people. I feel like I was given an opportunity of a lifetime, and quite simply, you never know unless you try. It is incredibly scary to start a business any time, and even more so now. People are rethinking their spending, and spending more time at home. Now more than ever is the time to support local designers, artists, and musicians. I also feel like when people become more frugal they start paying more attention to where their money is going. It is always refreshing to know that a product you purchased was made by hand, or made local, or both. 
I know you went to the recent Trunk show at Cafe 11. What were your thoughts on the show?
It was my first time going to the Trunk show and I loved it. It was great to see what clothing and accessories designers are local. I truly had no idea beforehand. The vibe that night was magical! The place was packed with fresh faces all wanting to see what was being exhibited. I hope that next year I get to display my line, Simone, there. 
Will the shop exclusively use local artists and designers?
Besides Simone, which is handmade by myself, the shop will focus on brands that are made by hand or that are independent. Local talent dominates the shop among brands from all over the world. I like the idea of knowing where/who your money is going to. 
Are there any local artists or designers you have your eye on?
Absolutely! One of the best things to come out of this venture is seeking, discovering and meeting local talent. There are so many brilliant artists and designers! It has been a pleasure looking for creative people, turns out they are everywhere!
You have organized fashion shows before, most recently the Simone fashion show at the Landshark Cafe. Any plans for similar shows at Sew Vicious?
I am currently planning a grand opening in the very near future, which may have a mini fashion show of sorts. Other than that I would love to have another one in the spring back at Landshark. It was such a great show. I would also like to start an independent craft fair at the beach; that is a main goal this year. 
When is Sew Vicious opening its doors to the public?
We are open! We quietly opened the doors Christmas Eve and have been going steady ever since. In January we will start having craft classes on alternating Thursdays, among other events. 
Where can people find out more about Simone and Sew Vicious?
Come in and check it out! We are also on Facebook, and on myspace. We have a website in the works that will sell our goods online as well! Sew Vicious is always looking for new artists and designers! If you are interested in getting your wares in Sew Vicious please don’t hesitate to contact me for an application!!

This Sunday there will be an Open House at 7PM. Stop by and check out the store and meet the artists and designers!

Artists/Designers currently In Shop:
Sarah Dodd, artist Light Boxes
Goldie Bledsoe, artist, sunglasses paintings
Ross Bratlee, Faux Painter, cigar boxes, vintage furniture
Anna Heslin, artist & jeweler, Paintings are above Sarahs by fitting room
Michelle Ling, purses & crafts, MVL
Tabitha Carras, Srenotab, handmade accessories
Meredith Arceneaux, jewerly
Eric Macedonia, A Bomb Apparel, clothing
Brooke Helfen, So She Sews, eco plastic accessories & sustainable clothing
Jillian Gishler, Simone, reconstructed & handmade one of a kind clothing and accessories
Sarah Johnson, Rock N Reconstruct, Clothing
edbot5000, Paintings
Local Band Merchandise, Hand picked Vintage Goods

Sew Vicious 2225 Florida Blvd, Neptune Beach, Fl 32266
Facebook page
myspace page
sewVicious@gmail.com

To see some pics of the shop click here!
-eb5k