Today we're chatting with talented young designer Christine Street of Chocolate and Steel. Christine creates whimsical jewelry using reclaimed silver, and each piece is based on her own original illustrations.

What inspires your work? I spend a lot of time outdoors with my son. Most of my ideas come while hiking or walking to the park. I'm sure that's why there is such a strong nature theme in my work. I also adore mid-century design. I think this is reflected in the simplicity of my designs. Often times I sit on the sofa with a sketch pad and my iPod and just allow my mind to wander. Stories of characters build in my head and I draw them first with my eyes closed. That usually becomes the inspiration for a new piece.



Who are your favorite designers? I love everything of Eva Franco's, but I'm especially fond of the jackets and dresses. (And tops. See! I love everything.) Plus, the adorable tops at All-Mighty. I hope I have to go somewhere really fancy someday soon and I will be buying one of the amazing dresses from Merlin Castell and hopefully it's cold and I can get a coat too. :)

What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves? I am simple when it comes to beauty. I think the most important things are a good hair stylist and natural cleansers. I love the Vitamin C scrub from "Body Shop". I also like clean and simple perfumes. I use Bergamot Citrus from Fresh. I love everything by Fresh, it's just fresh ... for lack of a better word.

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? Follow your heart. (How cliche, huh?) But really -- even when you are promoting yourself. Allow who you really are to show through in all that you do. It's the easiest way to brand yourself because it's natural. There will be a consistency in your work and in your image. Also, dream big. There are plenty of people that will try to make you be realistic. You don't need to be that person, let them do it. You should spend your energy on big dreams. Anyways, it's much more fun to be a dreamer.

Where can people find your work? www.shopflick.com

Anything else? I'm so grateful for the success that I've be blessed with. At least once a day I am reminded that one year ago I was working for someone else and dabbling in jewelry. I'm thankful that I get to surround myself with beautiful art, creative people, and fanciful tales everyday.


We love all of the amazing independent designers out there and we wanted to find out more about what makes these creative types tick. If you do too, check out more of our Indie Designer Interviews.