A month or two ago I was introduced to a brand called The FFS created by sisters Cheryl Freeman and Donna Freeman Hughes. The duo hit a major coup when their line of bracelets got picked up by Barneys and they were featured on the retailer’s blog, The Window. The Freeman sisters handcraft their accessories line with the finest materials (think: recycled vintage vulcanite and oxidized Ethiopian copper) while making sure it’s true to their streetwise yet sophisticated aesthetic.
I had the opportunity to e-chat with them on their brand, accessories, and career. Read on for more:
Miss Whoever You Are: What inspired you to become accessories designers? Did you always know that was the career for you?
The FFS: The love of antique beads and loving to work with our hands. We knew that a creative and artistic career was optimum We are self taught with classes and workshops sprinkled through the years. After many years of different careers, we decided to concentrate on building a line.
MissWYA: How would you describe your personal style?
The FFS: Original….mixing vintage, tribal and modern. Our clothes are canvases for our accessories. Comfort is very important!
MissWYA: What is the design process like?
The FFS: Skype, a lot of texted photos! We improve and finish each others work.
The FFS: The jewelry business is very competitive so the right exposure is very important.
MissWYA: What keeps you inspired? Any muses?
The FFS: New material we get from our African bead dealers, artist that are uncompromising in their expression. Grace Jones, David Bowie.
MissWYA: What is the best advice you’ve received and from whom?
The FFS: From mom. “Always follow your intuition.”
MissWYA: If I were to raid your iPod, what would be on your playlist(s)?
The FFS: Fela Kuti, Roy Ayers, Osulande, Eryka Badu, The Clash, The Stooges
MissWYA: Any advice for aspiring designers?
The FFS: Stay true to your vision and keep on truckin’!
MissWYA: What’s the one piece of jewelry you grab before leaving the house?
The FFS: Bracelets and watch
Quick! Tell me the first thing that comes to mind:
My heart beats for POSITIVE CHANGE
Fashion shouldn’t be FORCED
If I wasn’t an accessories designer, I would be a(n) WORLD TRAVELERS
Twitter or Facebook or Instagram? INSTAGRAM
Biggest mistake you see women make when it comes to getting dressed DRESSING FOR OTHER PEOPLE AND NOT THEMSELVES
Thank you to The FFS for chatting. To see their line, visit The FFS online store or shop at Barneys.com.
