Get into the head of celebrity and designer Paige Geller of Paige Premium Denim with our exclusive interview!
1. What inspires you when creating a new fit?
When I am creating a new fit, I am usually inspired by shoes. I think about shoes that are trending and what we will want to wear with them. I also look at what is happening with tops, jackets, and t-shirts and decide what silhouette will look best. If long boxy knits are in, then I need to design a slim shape, like our Verdugo Jegging. If shorter tops are in , I will design a higher rise jean, if it is a heavy wedge season, then I look to design a flare etc. I also pay attention to the fact that women and girls of all ages are built differently. I like to make sure I have different styles that flatter all shapes!
2. Which make is your favorite jean?
My favorite jean of the moment is my Lou Lou Tulip Jean! It is a skinny all the way down to the ankle then it kicks out over your shoes. Wear them with a platform shoe or wedge and I swear your legs will be super-model long. They are so flattering. I wear them in the Sardinia wash during the day, and the Vinyl or Twilight wash for a sexy night out on the town. I am also obsessed with my non-denim cargos. I have my black ones on right now.
3. How did you get to where you are today?
I got where I am today by a lot of hard work. I graduated high school at the age of 16 and the University of Southern California at the age of 20 with honors. While I was in school I worked on and off as a model. After college, I won the honor of Miss California and continued in the entertainment industry as an actress, singer and model. Unfortunately, the industry caught up to me….I battled the disease of Anorexia and later sought treatment. I was told that it was not in my best interest to go back into the entertainment industry. So, in the meantime, I worked as a fit model and discovered my passion! To be a fit model one has to be a healthy size. I worked with designers from denim to swimwear to evening wear. I fell in love with fashion all over again by discovering what looks great on certain bodies and why. I had a strong voice as a fit model and worked closely with the designers to let them know what their customer would really want to wear. I became known as a fit expert and later design consultant. Seven years later Paige denim was born. I found my purpose and passion- helping men and women look and feel good!
4. Do you have any advice for anyone who wants to be a prominent designer?
My advice to anyone who wants to be a prominent designer would be to stay true to your ideas and vision. There will be so many chefs in the kitchen and you need to be true to what your brand is. Also, be prepared for an adventure! I am on the road as much as I am in the office to promote my brand and to meet the customers. I am designing for them, not just myself.
5. Can you tell us a little about your alliance with the National Eating Disorders Association?
Due to fact that I have suffered from an eating disorder I am passionate about helping those who are or have suffered by spreading the word about where to go for help. I am an ambassador for NEDA the National Eating Disorders Association which is dedicated to providing education, resources and support to those affected by eating disorders. If anyone you know is suffering from an eating disorder and you need to talk to someone call 1-800-931-2237 or go to www.nationaleatingdisorders.org for help.
6. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you be?
If I could live anywhere in the world it would be Italy! I can’t get enough of the food, the people, the clothes and the beautiful scenery and architecture. Viva la Italia!
7. What are 5 words you would use to best describe you?
Kind, vivacious, warm-hearted, and understanding with a sparkly personality on top is how my employees just described me.
Jean featured in photo: the Lou Lou Tulip in Sardinia wash
