
Roxy Harlow is a modern day Hollywood starlet with a rock star reputation amongst Tinseltown and tour buses. Inspired by a mixture of modern military, European Royalty, Steampunk, The Great Gatsby, glamorous film stars and edgy rock stars, Rox + Royalty forms the perfect union of Hollywood rock & royalty. - ANNIE WEIHRAUCH
Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts
Monday, September 26, 2011
The fall collection will be coming soon! Until then, please check out the Gallery from the amazing photo shoot we did last month! It has taken weeks to get the website updated, and we still have a long way to go until we can add them to the store. Until then, I am taking special order requests on any items featured in the gallery shots, including the adorable ruffle trimmed button dresses and tutus!
http://www.shoprockandroyalty.com/gallery/photo206.htm
This weekend Rock & Royalty will be selling products and taking custom orders on the new collection at Christmas in October at the Hancock County Fairgrounds in Findlay, OH. This is near my hometown, Bluffton, so I hope to see some familiar faces!
The Indie Rock Collection 2 promotion is now available as a gift with purchase. Please check out these amazing bands!
http://www.shoprockandroyalty.com/newmusic.asp
I would like to thank everyone who has volunteered their services to help build this brand. I will provide a full list of credits on the web site as soon as we can update it further!
Thanks - Annie
Friday, October 30, 2009
Rock & Royalty™ Takes the Throne
I would like to announce that Modern Material will now be represented by a new brand name called Rock & Royalty™. Over the last 2 years the brand evolved into a clear direction inspired by rock & roll and European royalty. I felt that it was time to create a name that could gain more appeal and understanding for the brand image. Modern Material will still remain the business behind the scenes, but Rock & Royalty will take the throne on the consumer side. I am working on the process of trademarking the name, as there certainly is a market for apparel and accessories inspired by this theme.

New Name. New Domain. www.shoprockandroyalty.com. The former Modern Material website will also remain active as we have developed a strong customer base around the world in the last 2 years. Both domains route to the same site, which has been completely updated to reflect the new brand name. I decided not to start from scratch when creating the new brand image, so there could still be some recognition of the Modern Material brand. The colors and logo look very much the same, however I've added some ornate elements to the design. The brand will now focus on clothing and accessories, while beginning to remove the paper category. Customers can now shop by collections including women's and men's.
Tis the Season to Rock the Night Away. A Holiday giveaway is now underway with a gift set valued over $100. The link to the entry form is on the home page. The items are mostly from the women's collection, but could make a great gift. Please be sure to register and pass the link onto your friends. (Note: my family and personal friends are not eligible).
A Collaboration of Music & Style. The Indie Rock Collection has also been an amazing addition to the brand, which will also go nicely with the new name Rock & Royalty. I am so impressed by the amazing musicians who are featured in this collection. There is a great mix of music from beautiful songs by singer/songwriters to songs that make you want to rock. There are several songs that have been used on hit television shows, including: Grey's Anatomy, One Tree Hill and 90210. The goal of this promotion was to spread the word about these great artists, while offering customers an amazing value. I appreciate everyone who has contributed to this project. It took a lot of hard work to get things pieced together, but I think the concept is something that will continue to revolve around Rock & Royalty. The current collection will be available until June 15, 2010, or while supplies last.
Several new pieces will be added in time for the holidays! Of course the thing I love to do more than anything is design accessories and embellish apparel. I have several great new items that I have yet to put on the website, as well as some great new designs in mind! One of the most exciting additions I am working on is a collection of ties, for both men and women! They will certainly have the Rock & Royalty flair, consisting of embellishments that will set them aside from anything the rest of the pack. Think rock & roll not business attire. A few limited edition clutches and totes are also in the mix.

Rock & Royalty™ Couture. This will continue to be the line of embellished apparel and accessories that require more time and expense. I personally put a lot of time into these pieces to offer something unique. The Alison Wonderland and Mad Hatter Couture Tees drew a lot of attention this summer. This is a theme I hope to expand on in the future, especially with the Tim Burton remake starting Johnny Depp sure to become a smash hit at the box office.

Inspired by Rock & Royalty Romance. The entire brand is a mixture of hard edge rock and roll elements and elegant ornate details. I'm inspired by the 150 + concerts I've attended to the exquisite costumes from the modern day Marie Antoinette movie and Gwen Stefani's video for What You Waiting For. It feels like a fairy tale romance between the heir to the throne and a rock star from opposite sides of society, destined to be together. A short love story of what has created the style of Rocker Romantic can soon be found in the About section of the web store. Long Live the Rock & Roll Queen.

New Name. New Domain. www.shoprockandroyalty.com. The former Modern Material website will also remain active as we have developed a strong customer base around the world in the last 2 years. Both domains route to the same site, which has been completely updated to reflect the new brand name. I decided not to start from scratch when creating the new brand image, so there could still be some recognition of the Modern Material brand. The colors and logo look very much the same, however I've added some ornate elements to the design. The brand will now focus on clothing and accessories, while beginning to remove the paper category. Customers can now shop by collections including women's and men's.
Tis the Season to Rock the Night Away. A Holiday giveaway is now underway with a gift set valued over $100. The link to the entry form is on the home page. The items are mostly from the women's collection, but could make a great gift. Please be sure to register and pass the link onto your friends. (Note: my family and personal friends are not eligible).
A Collaboration of Music & Style. The Indie Rock Collection has also been an amazing addition to the brand, which will also go nicely with the new name Rock & Royalty. I am so impressed by the amazing musicians who are featured in this collection. There is a great mix of music from beautiful songs by singer/songwriters to songs that make you want to rock. There are several songs that have been used on hit television shows, including: Grey's Anatomy, One Tree Hill and 90210. The goal of this promotion was to spread the word about these great artists, while offering customers an amazing value. I appreciate everyone who has contributed to this project. It took a lot of hard work to get things pieced together, but I think the concept is something that will continue to revolve around Rock & Royalty. The current collection will be available until June 15, 2010, or while supplies last.
Several new pieces will be added in time for the holidays! Of course the thing I love to do more than anything is design accessories and embellish apparel. I have several great new items that I have yet to put on the website, as well as some great new designs in mind! One of the most exciting additions I am working on is a collection of ties, for both men and women! They will certainly have the Rock & Royalty flair, consisting of embellishments that will set them aside from anything the rest of the pack. Think rock & roll not business attire. A few limited edition clutches and totes are also in the mix.

Rock & Royalty™ Couture. This will continue to be the line of embellished apparel and accessories that require more time and expense. I personally put a lot of time into these pieces to offer something unique. The Alison Wonderland and Mad Hatter Couture Tees drew a lot of attention this summer. This is a theme I hope to expand on in the future, especially with the Tim Burton remake starting Johnny Depp sure to become a smash hit at the box office.

Inspired by Rock & Royalty Romance. The entire brand is a mixture of hard edge rock and roll elements and elegant ornate details. I'm inspired by the 150 + concerts I've attended to the exquisite costumes from the modern day Marie Antoinette movie and Gwen Stefani's video for What You Waiting For. It feels like a fairy tale romance between the heir to the throne and a rock star from opposite sides of society, destined to be together. A short love story of what has created the style of Rocker Romantic can soon be found in the About section of the web store. Long Live the Rock & Roll Queen.
Labels:
accessories,
clothing,
fairy tale,
fashion,
free music,
indie rock,
jewelry,
modern material,
rock and roll,
rock and royalty,
rock star,
rocker chic,
rocker romantic,
statement necklaces,
style
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Creekside Festival & Music Promotion
The last several months have been a whirl wind for me as I set out to conquer several major projects for Modern Material. The first of which being a booth at the Gahanna Creekside Jazz & Blues Festival just outside Columbus, Ohio. The chance to spend 3 days displaying merchandise in front of thousands and thousands of people was sure to give a huge local boost in brand recognition. The second major task was creating an amazing music promotion to draw attention. Somehow I managed to pull everything together to launch the Free Music Download promotion at the festival.
After receiving news about being accepted into the 2009 Creekside Festival, it was time to start building inventory. I added several new apparel and accessory designs which will soon be available online. Much of the product production is still handled by myself, so I spent countless hours and days sewing embellishments and assembling jewelry. My husband, Steve, also contributed dozens of hours to building display walls and updating the website, while my best friend Tiffany found herself helping out with some challenging projects. Perhaps the most challenging of all was being able to locate just about everything I seemed to loose in all of the chaos.
3 DAY WEEKEND
Creekside turned out to be a very successful event. My close friend, Jamie Linscott, joined me to sell her fine silver jewelry and vintage creations. Overall the sales were great, and the responses to the line was amazing. It gives me a huge boost in confidence, and from a marketing standpoint, it was a great customer analysis by overhearing the conversations that people were having with each other as they looked around. The Alison Wonderland Couture Tee (originally designed as a gift for Gwen Stefani), was an instant attraction, followed by The Mad Hatter Couture Tee, which is now available. The Royal Highness necklace was the most popular Modern Material jewelry item, while the new Long Live The Rock & Roll Queen tanks also sold well. I also introduced a military style hat which was easily a best seller.
THE INDIE ROCK COLLECTION, V1
The music promotion was also very exciting to share with customers, although I don't believe it was really the right crowd who understands indie music. It did seem to open up some interesting opportunities that were presented to me, which I hope to be a part of. As you are now beginning to notice, Modern Material is becoming intertwined with indie rock & roll music. Music originally inspired the overall mood of the brand, and I am very honored to have found so many talented musicians wanting to support Modern Material and license a song for us to give away as collective gift with purchase. I intend to use this collaboration to not only generate more sales, but also shed light on dozens of lesser known indie musicians who deserve to find success in the music industry. I want to make the shopping experience with the brand a statement. I remember receiving music samplers at concerts or other events, which at first glace seemed like a waste of time because I had never heard of a single musician listed. However, I soon discovered some artists who would go on to be among my all time favorites musicians. A new tee shirt or piece of jewelry will probably stick around in your closet for a year or until the trend wears out. A great song will never go out of style....unless of course popular radio kills it for you...over...and over.
THANK YOU
I would like to give thanks and credit to the dozens of people who have contributed to this music promotion. First I owe the largest thanks to my husband Steve for his patience with me over the last few months. He has also made everything possible as I continue to want to add new features to the website almost every day, and we still have a major piece to tackle with the 30 artist profiles. I would next like to thank Vance McNabb from Charleston, SC, manager for Howie Day, Jay Clifford, Owen Beverly, Steven Fiore, and Nick Zuber for his support of Modern Material over the last year and for guiding me in the right direction as I set out to create this music compilation. Thanks to Jason Corron, Art Director of Promowest Productions in Columbus, OH, for opportunities that are hopefully yet to come. Thanks to The Thrifters (and basist Chris Henke) from Cleveland, Ohio, who found me online and expressed interest in collaboration and who took the promotion on tour around the US. I would especially like to thank those who I reached out to, simply because I heard a song that I really liked. Thanks to David Blutenthal of Brick Wall Management in New York City for his strong support, lending music from The Alternate Routes, K.S. Rhoads, The Spring Standards, The Clarks, Slow Runner, Ari Hest, and Sons of William. Thanks to Chris Hacker of Engine Room Recordings in New York City for sharing The Bloodsugars, Porterblock, Lowry, and Israel, Darling. Thanks to Andy Forts of Eenie Meanie Records in Hollywood, CA for the music of Great Northern, Scissors for Lefty, Blue Eyed Son, and Oranger. And more thanks to Fara D'Augiar with Derek James. Jody Gayle with Listen 2 Three. Cloud 13 Records for Soft Targets and The Ums in Tallahassee, FL. Brad Lyons of Oceanship in Ontario, Canada. Gandhar Savur with Miss TK & The Revenge in Ashbury, NJ. Andrew Lizon of Drew in Columbus, OH. Paul McGough and Hillary Abel with Vacuity in Kitchener, Ontario. Tiffany Schloesser and Stef Shapira of The Rebel Group in New York City for music from Wheat. Corinne, Cindel, Dustin, and One Union Project from Rock Factory Studios in Pickerington, OH. Music has been licensed for a period of 1 year, and over the next several months we will be working on building a marketing campaign to reach out to music and fashion media outlets, primarily in the U.S. The response to the Modern Material brand and music collection has been amazing, so we anticipate much more exposure once we have the chance to distribute press releases. Things are just getting started, so please check back for the latest and greatest.
MICHAEL JACKSON
On a final note, I would just like to pay tribute to the very first musician who truly inspired me when I was just 4 years old. I will never forget watching the videos for Thriller, Billie Jean, and Say Say Say over and over again on an old VHS tape. Michael's poster hung on my bedroom wall, perhaps my first crush or just someone I wanted to be. A piece of my childhood gone, just like everybody else's.
Labels:
american apparel,
fashion,
festival booth,
free music,
gahanna creekside festival,
indie rock,
jewelry,
modern material,
Music,
music download,
rock and roll,
rock tee shirt,
style
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Lastest Press


I just wanted to share a few recent features for Modern Material. I was interviewed a few weeks ago for a fashion article in the Columbus Alive newspaper. It was a fun experience but I'm not used to having the attention on me. Any free press for Modern Material is wonderful, so I guess I'll just have to get over the embarrassment! Sorry if the links are not showing up.
www.columbusalive.com/live/content/features/stories/2009/02/12/ca_s_rack.html
Another great blog called Cuteable featured a Modern Material bracelet last week. They have added so many more cute things since, so you will have to scroll down for awhile to find it!
cuteable.com
I also continue to see dozens of new item uses on Polyvore.com. Usually my notebooks and buttons are frequently used but there is one set created by a user I would like to share.
The city is at war. - by J e s s;] on Polyvore.com
Keep rockin.
- a n n i e -
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Turn the Radio Up. It's Magick.
Well I haven't followed through with my new years resolution of posting more blogs. Last week while stuck in traffic during another snow storm, I had a dozen things on my mind that I wanted to write about. But that's the way life goes, right? The best and most creative ideas always come when you're stuck in a situation where you can't do anything about it. I've often woken up in the middle of the night with a great new concept or design, but at 3am, what am I supposed to do about it? I used to keep a notebook in my night stand just to jot down ideas before they escaped like a dream you know you want to remember but you never will.
So I'm stuck in my Murano on I-670 with nothing more than my music to entertain me, and my mind to distract me from the thousands of vehicles surrounding me. Those of you who know me, know that music is just as much a part of my life's inspiration as my career in design and fashion. I was on the verge of another migraine, which always seem to develop on my drive home from work. But there was something that was pulling at my strings, forcing me to turn the volume up. Maybe it was the new mix CD I made from iTunes recently. Maybe it was the sheer boredom of the usual 45 minute commute ticking slowly to the 2 hour mark. All I wanted to do was drift off to a new land. If only it were as simple as the television show LOST, and the white flash would instantly transport me in time to somewhere way cooler than the Columbus interstate. Luckily my imagination was in full gear since obviously my car wasn't. I let the music tell my story. Tell me where it wanted me to be. So here is a little journey through the songs and destinations I took that cold and lonely night....
Song: After Tonight
Artist: Justin Nozuka
Imagination: A warm star studded night under the open universe on Oahu's North Shore. Beach, blankets, bonfire, close friends, and a chilling acoustic performance next to the crashing pacific waves.
Song: Electric Feel
Artist: MGMT
Imagination: A night out dancing with the girls, drinking martinis at a trendy night spot.
Song: I'm Not Over
Artist: Carolina Liar
Imagination: Road trip. Westward of course. The fresh start of spring and the windows rolled down. An old fashion Rand McNally road map flapping in the wind, our only form of navigation with the miles of winding road stretched ahead.
Song: Dawn of the Dead
Artist: Does It Offend You,Yeah?
Imagination: Set sail on a cruise ship in the Caribbean. A week of fun in the sun and no stress or worries.
Song: Magick
Artist: Ryan Adams
Imagination: The anthem for a bad day. When you just want to say something you know you shouldn't. All you want to do is blast the music and scream at the top of your lungs. What goes around comes around.
Song:Supermassive Black Hole
Artist: Muse
Imagination: Get ready to rock. Our basement is equipped with a giant 8 foot screen waiting for the next Guitar Hero to take the stage.
Song:It's Amazing
Artist: Jem
Imagination: If one of my favorite shows, The OC still existed, I know this song would've led to another Ryan, Marissa, Seth & Summer romantic drama in Newport.
Song: The Planets Bend Between Us
Artist: Snow Patrol
Imagination: Somewhere I should be now, rather than imagining it. Eyes Wide Shut with a satin sleep mask. In my own cozy bed, listening to my iPod(which is officially dead), drifting off to sleep and letting my imagination roar.....
So I'm stuck in my Murano on I-670 with nothing more than my music to entertain me, and my mind to distract me from the thousands of vehicles surrounding me. Those of you who know me, know that music is just as much a part of my life's inspiration as my career in design and fashion. I was on the verge of another migraine, which always seem to develop on my drive home from work. But there was something that was pulling at my strings, forcing me to turn the volume up. Maybe it was the new mix CD I made from iTunes recently. Maybe it was the sheer boredom of the usual 45 minute commute ticking slowly to the 2 hour mark. All I wanted to do was drift off to a new land. If only it were as simple as the television show LOST, and the white flash would instantly transport me in time to somewhere way cooler than the Columbus interstate. Luckily my imagination was in full gear since obviously my car wasn't. I let the music tell my story. Tell me where it wanted me to be. So here is a little journey through the songs and destinations I took that cold and lonely night....
Song: After Tonight
Artist: Justin Nozuka
Imagination: A warm star studded night under the open universe on Oahu's North Shore. Beach, blankets, bonfire, close friends, and a chilling acoustic performance next to the crashing pacific waves.
Song: Electric Feel
Artist: MGMT
Imagination: A night out dancing with the girls, drinking martinis at a trendy night spot.
Song: I'm Not Over
Artist: Carolina Liar
Imagination: Road trip. Westward of course. The fresh start of spring and the windows rolled down. An old fashion Rand McNally road map flapping in the wind, our only form of navigation with the miles of winding road stretched ahead.
Song: Dawn of the Dead
Artist: Does It Offend You,Yeah?
Imagination: Set sail on a cruise ship in the Caribbean. A week of fun in the sun and no stress or worries.
Song: Magick
Artist: Ryan Adams
Imagination: The anthem for a bad day. When you just want to say something you know you shouldn't. All you want to do is blast the music and scream at the top of your lungs. What goes around comes around.
Song:Supermassive Black Hole
Artist: Muse
Imagination: Get ready to rock. Our basement is equipped with a giant 8 foot screen waiting for the next Guitar Hero to take the stage.
Song:It's Amazing
Artist: Jem
Imagination: If one of my favorite shows, The OC still existed, I know this song would've led to another Ryan, Marissa, Seth & Summer romantic drama in Newport.
Song: The Planets Bend Between Us
Artist: Snow Patrol
Imagination: Somewhere I should be now, rather than imagining it. Eyes Wide Shut with a satin sleep mask. In my own cozy bed, listening to my iPod(which is officially dead), drifting off to sleep and letting my imagination roar.....
Labels:
artist,
Carolina Liar,
designer,
Does It Offend You Yeah?,
dreams,
fashion,
imagination,
inspiration,
Jem,
Justin Nozuka,
LOST,
MGMT,
Muse,
Music,
Ryan Adams,
Snow Patrol,
song,
traffic
Saturday, January 10, 2009
New Years Resolutions

Happy New Year! January is the time of year where we all begin to start over with the things we never did last year. Suddenly the gym is packed, our meals are healthier, we've reconnected with old friends, and we've begun to tackle the cluttered areas of our home. A few weeks go by and we start to slack off again.
Last January my resolution was to launch my website and work really hard to help it succeed. I was stuck in a marketing job that wasn't well suited for my design aspirations, however it gave me the drive to push Modern Material further. I received dozens of requests to feature Modern Material on blogs, fashion shows, in boutiques, in a magazine, celebrity gift baskets, style giveaways, and charity events. I felt I needed to be very selective in donating items for exposure, and had to turn away many requests. With very little budget to start my line, I haven't been able to spend any money on advertising, therefore relying heavily on social network sites, indie designer directories, and word of mouth. Sales started coming in from customers around the world who happened to find my site somehow online. Florida, California, Wisconsin, Ohio, Washington, Texas, Georgia, Colorado, New York, Massachusetts, Canada, Scotland, England, and France. Although I don't get orders frequently, each order reminds me that it is possible to take this further. So Resolution No. 1 is to get back online and post my site on as many websites as possible and make as many friends on Facebook, Myspace, Twitter and the designer networks I am a part of.
I haven't dedicated much time to promotion or development since last spring if you haven't noticed. I started a new job in the summer as a product designer with a vendor who manufactures for dozens of major fashion retail brands. I design and embellish bags, slippers, flip flops, compact mirrors, hair accessories, sleep masks, pillows, plush, prints, graphic tees, and packaging. It is very inspiring to be back in the fashion accessory scene full time. I was afraid it might burn me out, preventing me from working on my own line. Instead it has taught me more and keeps me in the loop of what trends are hitting the market. As a result I'm happier and more focused.
I have designed several new pieces of jewelry over the past year, mainly because it is fun and doesn't require the up front expense of printing graphic tees. The Couture Tee was an idea I developed for Gwen Stefani's gift basket, and it seems to be receiving the most attention on my website. Resolution No. 2 is to expand on this category. I have been getting very frustrated because every time I start to develop a design using a tee from American Apparel, I find out it will be discontinued. It would be hard to full fill larger orders to boutiques or popular demand of a specific item when I can't reorder materials. However, with the Couture Tee collection, the idea is that it is a unique item with very limited quantities.
Resolution No. 3 is to figure out a way to be able to afford to sell wholesale to more boutique stores. I had several lined up last year, but decided not to pursue many of them. There are 2 boutiques in Albuequerque, NM that have a large assortment of Modern Material products in their shops. I soon realized I could never sell my products to boutiques with the retail rates I set. I started off thinking I needed to compete with this major retail brands like Old Navy and Forever 21 that offered trendy apparel and accessories yet at much lower prices. I didn't want to be pricey like other major retailers like Abercrombie, Express, Banana Republic, etc. But I have to be. It's just me. I don't develop anything in China for next to nothing like the big guys. I have a much longer blog about this, so I might as well not repeat myself. Shop Indie. Support Designers.
Resolution No. 4 is to expand on my blog. The more content I put here, the better search results I should get. I would like to be able to blog about whatever is on my mind. I'm sure it will get boring for you if everything here is about Modern Material. There is a lot more too me than my brand, although not that much =). I mentioned in my last blog that I would like to focus more on music. Well that hasn't happened...yet. There are also a lot of great TV shows I'm addicted to, which I'm sure many of you are too. For example, who is a fan of LOST? If you are we probably have a lot to talk about. Season 5 starts in less than 2 weeks and I would like to leave my weekly thoughts and theories here. I watch a lot of TV. Many shows are great for trends in fashion and music. Gossip Girl, The Hills, The City, What Not To Wear, and Grey's Anatomy (which I'm pretty much over).
Well I suppose I better finish up my rambling. Please be sure to subscribe/follow my blog and see if I follow through with my resolutions.
annie
Monday, September 1, 2008
Modern Day Inspiration
It's been a few months since I've really spent much time continuing to develop Modern Material. I've been extremely busy adjusting to a new full time job in which I am designing fashion accessories and graphics for numerous retail brands. I am really enjoying the exciting projects and creative atmosphere during my 8 to 5. At first I thought I might loose some of the creative motivation I had over the last year, but instead I'm finding it more inspiring as I am constantly surrounded by creativity and style. Time, is still however the hardest part to find.
I found this site while looking over my website analytics and thought you might enjoy it. It all started by someone adding some Modern Material products to their profile, and from there, many other users have branched on. The site is called Polyvore, and it's a fun place for inspiring fashion and style. I've spent the day building my own profile, and hopefully adding more items from Modern Material for other people to use in their style sets. Remember how as a teenager you would cut out your favorite things from your magazines and create a bulletin board on your wall? Well this is basically an online edition where you search the internet for anything cool and trendy, and create your own collage. So far I've seen dozens of users add Modern Material items to their collages. It's cool to see the inspired trends by potential customers.
Here are a few sets I pulled. If you ever have any free time, start your own profile and see what inspires you.

Click to view image.
Well my long weekend is nearing the end. I still have some freelance work to finish and it's finally time to watch the premiere of Gossip Girl! It's a great new show for inspiring trends in fashion, design, style, and music. It's the new O.C. replacement for today's fashionistas.
xoxo
annie
I found this site while looking over my website analytics and thought you might enjoy it. It all started by someone adding some Modern Material products to their profile, and from there, many other users have branched on. The site is called Polyvore, and it's a fun place for inspiring fashion and style. I've spent the day building my own profile, and hopefully adding more items from Modern Material for other people to use in their style sets. Remember how as a teenager you would cut out your favorite things from your magazines and create a bulletin board on your wall? Well this is basically an online edition where you search the internet for anything cool and trendy, and create your own collage. So far I've seen dozens of users add Modern Material items to their collages. It's cool to see the inspired trends by potential customers.
Here are a few sets I pulled. If you ever have any free time, start your own profile and see what inspires you.

Click to view image.
Well my long weekend is nearing the end. I still have some freelance work to finish and it's finally time to watch the premiere of Gossip Girl! It's a great new show for inspiring trends in fashion, design, style, and music. It's the new O.C. replacement for today's fashionistas.
xoxo
annie
Labels:
accessories,
apparel,
collage,
cool,
creative,
designer,
fashion,
gossip girl,
hip,
inspiration,
job,
magazine,
modern material,
O.C.,
polyvore,
style,
trendy
Thursday, June 26, 2008
SCM Gwen Stefani Gift Basket Press Release
Hello-
I just wanted to share the official press release for the SMC Gwen Stefani Gift Basket. I will soon post photos of the entire gift basket, and detailed shots of what was featured from Modern Material.
thx-
annie
------
For Immediate Release
Oviedo, FL (May 22, 2008)
Contact: Kimberly Morales & Becky Ocasio / 407-687-1543 / info@stylecafemoms.com
Style Cafe Moms, an online “resource cafe for the trendy mom”, strives to be the top online support system for business owners and those who have developed their own product and need affordable advertising and exposure. In addition to advertising, Style Café Moms offers boutique and product reviews as well as a shopping guide, recipes, celebrity dish and of course,the Style CaféMoms Celebrity Basket.
Style Cafe Moms, offering an array of services for a businesses advertising and promotional needs, however they still looked for more unique opportunities to promote the businesses that they represent,and with that the Style Café Moms Celebrity Basket was born – a venue allowing several businesses to receive extraordinary distribution and publicity. Style Cafe Mom's celebrity baskets are the ideal setting
to launch a new product or create awareness of an existing product, by delving into the celebrity realm and offering businesses the opportunity to introduce their product(s) to some of the biggest celebrities.
The recipient for Style Café Moms most recent was Gwen Stefani. This basket included items not only for their new little rock star, but also for Gwen, Gavin and Kingston as well. The Gwen basket was a huge success for
Western Chief – Westernchief.com
Chooka – Chookaboot.com
Goosie Cards - Goosiecards.com
Baby Planet - Baby-planet.com
The Children’s Nest Boutique - Childrensnestboutique.com
Rockin Baby Sling - Rockinbabysling.com
Bella Materna - Bellamaterna.com
My Brest Friend - Mybrestfriend.com
Table Topper - Tabletopper.com
Tres Couture – Trescouture.com
Modern Material - Modern-material.com
I just wanted to share the official press release for the SMC Gwen Stefani Gift Basket. I will soon post photos of the entire gift basket, and detailed shots of what was featured from Modern Material.
thx-
annie
------
For Immediate Release
Oviedo, FL (May 22, 2008)
Contact: Kimberly Morales & Becky Ocasio / 407-687-1543 / info@stylecafemoms.com
Style Cafe Moms, an online “resource cafe for the trendy mom”, strives to be the top online support system for business owners and those who have developed their own product and need affordable advertising and exposure. In addition to advertising, Style Café Moms offers boutique and product reviews as well as a shopping guide, recipes, celebrity dish and of course,the Style CaféMoms Celebrity Basket.
Style Cafe Moms, offering an array of services for a businesses advertising and promotional needs, however they still looked for more unique opportunities to promote the businesses that they represent,and with that the Style Café Moms Celebrity Basket was born – a venue allowing several businesses to receive extraordinary distribution and publicity. Style Cafe Mom's celebrity baskets are the ideal setting
to launch a new product or create awareness of an existing product, by delving into the celebrity realm and offering businesses the opportunity to introduce their product(s) to some of the biggest celebrities.
The recipient for Style Café Moms most recent was Gwen Stefani. This basket included items not only for their new little rock star, but also for Gwen, Gavin and Kingston as well. The Gwen basket was a huge success for
Western Chief – Westernchief.com
Chooka – Chookaboot.com
Goosie Cards - Goosiecards.com
Baby Planet - Baby-planet.com
The Children’s Nest Boutique - Childrensnestboutique.com
Rockin Baby Sling - Rockinbabysling.com
Bella Materna - Bellamaterna.com
My Brest Friend - Mybrestfriend.com
Table Topper - Tabletopper.com
Tres Couture – Trescouture.com
Modern Material - Modern-material.com
Monday, June 23, 2008
Modern Material was chosen to be featured in a celebrity gift basket for style icon and musician, Gwen Stefani. Gwen is due to have her second child with rocker husband, Gavin Rossdale, former lead for the 90's grunge band Bush. Gavin's solo album, Wanderlust, hit the charts this month.
Style Cafe Moms, is a group of women business owners focused on promoting up and coming brands and designers. They specialize in celebrity baby baskets for A-List celebrities and media outlets. Several celebrity moms are selected each month to receive the lavish gifts. The most recent celebrity to receive the gift basket was Jessica Alba. She was very happy with her gifts and even sent a thank you letter to the group. Jessica was spotted wearing one of the necklaces from one of the designers.
Other celebrities chosen for the gift basket include Jennifer Lopez, Angelina Jolie, Victoria Beckham, Kelly Rippa, Julia Roberts, and Reese Witherspoon just to name a few.
I chose to feature some of the core products from the Royalty Collection. I also designed a few new pieces for Gwen, Gavin, and Kingston. The Alison Wonderland Couture Tee, inspired by Gwen's Harajuku Lover's Tour, is now featured on my site as a limited edition piece. I also designed a few custom pieces including a hoodie track suit for Kingston and onesies for the new baby.
Here is a photo of the entire gift basket, along with a few detail shots of Kingston's gift.





Be bold. Be different. Be daring.
- a n n i e -
Style Cafe Moms, is a group of women business owners focused on promoting up and coming brands and designers. They specialize in celebrity baby baskets for A-List celebrities and media outlets. Several celebrity moms are selected each month to receive the lavish gifts. The most recent celebrity to receive the gift basket was Jessica Alba. She was very happy with her gifts and even sent a thank you letter to the group. Jessica was spotted wearing one of the necklaces from one of the designers.
Other celebrities chosen for the gift basket include Jennifer Lopez, Angelina Jolie, Victoria Beckham, Kelly Rippa, Julia Roberts, and Reese Witherspoon just to name a few.
I chose to feature some of the core products from the Royalty Collection. I also designed a few new pieces for Gwen, Gavin, and Kingston. The Alison Wonderland Couture Tee, inspired by Gwen's Harajuku Lover's Tour, is now featured on my site as a limited edition piece. I also designed a few custom pieces including a hoodie track suit for Kingston and onesies for the new baby.
Here is a photo of the entire gift basket, along with a few detail shots of Kingston's gift.
Be bold. Be different. Be daring.
- a n n i e -
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Queen Alexandria Reigns New Mexico
I hope everyone is having a great Memorial Day weekend. Ohio weather is actually coming through for us this year! I have so much work to do on Modern Material before I get started on a freelance project for Crabtree & Evelyn for the next few weeks. Steve and I moved our computers out to the patio so we can enjoy the crystal clear weather and watch the neighborhood garage sale bring lots of traffic to our quiet circle. So I probably look like the biggest dork with my 24" iMac desktop computer sitting on the patio table. But hey, it's much better sitting out here listening to Cake with the cool spring breeze as summertime approaches.
Speaking of Cake, I just checked out pictures from Cutie Pie Boutique, in Albuquerque, NM, who has been carrying Modern Material in their shop via Hey Pretty Cupcake, another cool boutique carrying my line. Here are some photos from some rockin girls in New Mexico.

Gabbie at Cutie Pie Boutique



Betty, owner of Cutie Pie Boutique knows how to look like a Rock Star wearing the Alexandria necklace.

Interior of Cutie Pie Boutique, Albuquerque, NM
Speaking of Cake, I just checked out pictures from Cutie Pie Boutique, in Albuquerque, NM, who has been carrying Modern Material in their shop via Hey Pretty Cupcake, another cool boutique carrying my line. Here are some photos from some rockin girls in New Mexico.
Gabbie at Cutie Pie Boutique
Betty, owner of Cutie Pie Boutique knows how to look like a Rock Star wearing the Alexandria necklace.
Interior of Cutie Pie Boutique, Albuquerque, NM
Labels:
accessories,
beads,
chainlink,
cool,
fashion,
glam,
hip,
material,
modern,
necklace,
posh,
rock and roll,
rock star,
style,
stylish,
trendy
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Introducing Couture Tees...Pre-Order NOW
This idea came to mind late one night while I was watching Gwen Stefani's Harajuku Lovers tour on HDnet. I had just received my spot in Gwen's celebrity baby gift basket and I wanted to be inspired to design some new products to send her. I started thinking about how much I enjoyed creating my Gwen Halloween costume a few years ago. It was a costume but I loved it so much it was hard to shove it in a box, never to be worn again. So I started thinking....how could I translate this costume into daily wear? The answer...Couture Tees.

I started designing a shirt based on an aqua American Apparel tee I had in my closet and some left over lace and ribbon from my costume. After a few days I felt I had runway material. The next step was order the materials. I ran into many roadblocks along the way. American Apparel had discontinued every style and color tee I felt could work for this design. There were limited sizes and quantities available, so I knew I would never be able to make this a permanent addition to the Modern Material line. But then I realized that would make this tee special. Once they are gone, they're gone.
As soon as I got my materials, I sat down at my sewing machine and let my imagination run. I have to admit, I was quite impressed when I was all finished. The next step was to see what everyone thought. I slipped on a black pencil skirt, black heels and accessorized the shirt with a wide black patent belt and chunky chain link necklace. I decided not to mention that it was one of my designs. I figured people would think it was either some weird crazy trend I was sporting that hasn't caught on yet...or they would love it. I was hoping it was the later. That day, I seriously received more complements in one day than I thought was possible. People I didn't even know very well were saying how much they loved my outfit. One of my friends realized I designed it, and couldn't shut up about it. I wore it out on the town that night, and my husband said he noticed a bunch of girls checking me out. I'm pretty modest, so it was hard for me to accept so much attention, but I knew I was on to something that could set me apart from the millions of other tee shirt designers.
So if you are looking for something amazing to add to your wardrobe or want a special gift for a friend, you'll know where to find it.
I am accepting pre-orders now, before this design is introduced to my web store. Keep in mind that sizes and quantities are extremely limited, so if you want one, please let me know. For more information, including price, please send an email to annie@modern-material.com.
Be Bold. Be Daring . Be Different.
- a n n i e -
http://www.modern-material.com
I started designing a shirt based on an aqua American Apparel tee I had in my closet and some left over lace and ribbon from my costume. After a few days I felt I had runway material. The next step was order the materials. I ran into many roadblocks along the way. American Apparel had discontinued every style and color tee I felt could work for this design. There were limited sizes and quantities available, so I knew I would never be able to make this a permanent addition to the Modern Material line. But then I realized that would make this tee special. Once they are gone, they're gone.
As soon as I got my materials, I sat down at my sewing machine and let my imagination run. I have to admit, I was quite impressed when I was all finished. The next step was to see what everyone thought. I slipped on a black pencil skirt, black heels and accessorized the shirt with a wide black patent belt and chunky chain link necklace. I decided not to mention that it was one of my designs. I figured people would think it was either some weird crazy trend I was sporting that hasn't caught on yet...or they would love it. I was hoping it was the later. That day, I seriously received more complements in one day than I thought was possible. People I didn't even know very well were saying how much they loved my outfit. One of my friends realized I designed it, and couldn't shut up about it. I wore it out on the town that night, and my husband said he noticed a bunch of girls checking me out. I'm pretty modest, so it was hard for me to accept so much attention, but I knew I was on to something that could set me apart from the millions of other tee shirt designers.
So if you are looking for something amazing to add to your wardrobe or want a special gift for a friend, you'll know where to find it.
I am accepting pre-orders now, before this design is introduced to my web store. Keep in mind that sizes and quantities are extremely limited, so if you want one, please let me know. For more information, including price, please send an email to annie@modern-material.com.
Be Bold. Be Daring . Be Different.
- a n n i e -
http://www.modern-material.com
Monday, March 24, 2008
Featured on Style Cafe Moms March 21.2008
Modern Material™ launches a web based independent designer boutique featuring the latest trends in paper, apparel, and accessories. Discover rock & roll inspired apparel and bold accessories which will command attention from the rock gods. Why not save the snail mail and jazz up your sister’s refrigerator rather than her yahoo inbox? Colorful and decorative note cards are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Founder & designer, Annie Weihrauch, 28, launched Modern Material™ as an outlet to express her creativity and style. After graduating with honors from Columbus College of Art & Design in 2003 with a degree in Advertising & Graphic Design, Annie spent four years as a packaging and accessory designer for Bath & Body Works. Now she is beginning to establish herself as an up and coming designer, located in Columbus, Ohio. Ms.
Several collections are designed to represent an individual’s personal style. The Royalty Collection is inspired by the mixture of modern world rock & roll and medieval European royalty. This edgy rocker style is represented by iconic guitars and royal coat of arms, including the crowned eagle and rampant lion, decorated by banners and flourish details. The Vintage Collection brings forward the retro chic illustrations of travel posters and advertising
campaigns from the early part of the twentieth century. Unique distressing of designs lend to a weathered billboard look, revealing years of built up layers. Rich pigments and bold typography create a charming display of retro style.
The Monthly Limited Edition features a new design each month which will be packaged as a set of 10 postcards and included as a free gift with any purchase over $10.
Modern Material™ is beginning to be featured in specialty boutique stores in the U.S. and is also listed on several amazing online resources including Marmalade Pink, Indie Collective, Bust, Scoutie Girl, Indie Designer Labels, Indie Parade and Ultra Hip Boutiques.
Why only shop among the powerhouse retail stores like everyone else? Be bold. Be different. Be daring. So if you are looking for a memorable gift or a treat for yourself, visit online today to uncover something new.
If you would like more information about Modern Material™, or to schedule an interview with Annie Weihrauch, please call Annie at 614.583.9153 or email her at annie@modern-material.com.
Modern Material™ is beginning to be featured in specialty boutique stores in the U.S. and is also listed on several amazing online resources including Marmalade Pink, Indie Collective, Bust, Scoutie Girl, Indie Designer Labels, Indie Parade and Ultra Hip Boutiques.
If you would like more information about Modern Material™, or to schedule an interview with Annie Weihrauch, please call Annie at 614.583.9153 or email her at annie@modern-material.com.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)