We were lucky to catch up with Courtney Vardar recently and have shared our conversation below.
Courtney, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I’ve always be interested in beautiful things, art, objects, jewelry, clothing! Growing up I had posters all over my room of women in beautiful garments. Muses from artists, Gustav Klimt, John William Waterhouse, Alphonse Mucha, and Frida Kahlo covered my room. I studied art and art history in college and traveled all over the world gathering inspiration. It wasn’t until after I graduated I realized my medium was fashion design. I opened a clothing store and started designing and manufacturing a couple of years later.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I design clothing using vintage hand embroidered and hand loomed textiles from Uzbekistan and Turkey. The textiles are embroidered by women for their dowries. Their stories and dreams are stitched into the fabric. I hope by reclaiming these textiles, repurposing them for self adornment, the wearer can feel the intention and sacredness in each garment. My garments are either bespoke or ready to wear. I am currently working on my Fall Collection for KC Fashion Week, the Union of Opposites. I will have my vintage textiles from the East, but also am tying in the tradition of the great American Quilt.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I’ve “failed” several times. The “failure” always leads me to a new, more desired path, even when it doesn’t feel that way in the moment. Bravery to start over is a super power. I don’t get stuck for long and always follow my intuition.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
I’ve read the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho several times throughout my life. It’s about a boy who leaves everything he knows, to follow his intuition. The fear and doubt is overwhelming at times. But his hero’s journey becomes realized when he starts to see the synchronicities all around him. It’s not the shinny Gold in the future, it’s the nuggets right in front of you now! If you are in it, and doing something you love, the rest falls into place.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.nidaluhandmade.com
- Instagram: nidaluhandmade
- Facebook: nidaluhandmade
Image Credits
Im Portrait of me is Ingrid Klevmark from IM Photography Other Photos is Rebecca Norden and Caleb Condit of Pilsen Photocoop
