We recently caught up with the talented women behind Dolan, an effortlessly sexy womenswear collection created by Jodie Dolan, creative director, and Hillary Justin, head designer. All of their pieces are designed and manufactured in downtown Los Angeles and created to be flattering on many different body types.

What inspires your work? Our inspiration comes from street style, art, old clippings from books, etc ... but we're most heavily inspired by our environment. Living in Los Angeles, we're able to change our surroundings depending on which way we drive, and we're inspired by the lifestyle that creates; clothes have to be easy and laid back, but also able to effortlessly move through different situations.

Who are your favorite designers? We love Stella McCartney. Her clothes have an uncomplicated beauty and sense of whimsy. Also, the bit of masculinity that she always mixes in makes even sequins seem unfussy!

What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves? We're always into layering, and since its late "winter" here in LA, we've been putting our LEFT COAST tanks and tees under everything! Great flats and boots are a must-have during the day, so we're big Loeffler Randall fans. As for beauty, we keep it pretty simple day to day: Kiehls Abyssine moisturizer with SPF, Clarins Liquid Bronze, Dior Show Mascara, and Smith's Rosebud Salve. For traveling, the Malin + Goetz kit is a must!

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? You can't please everyone, all the time. Or at least you can't start the creative process that way. Find a direction or a concept that you feel passionately about and that will show through in your designs. Also, working for someone before you start your own line is a great way to get a sense of the entire process ... it's good to know what you're getting yourself into!

Where can people find your work? Shopflick.com!!

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.