Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Kramer.
Julie, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
Because my mom sewed and my grandmother was a seamstress by trade, I was inspired to start sewing at a very young age. I started making clothes for my dolls and then worked my way to making clothing and accessories for myself. I sold my first hand made denim shoulder bag in 4th grade.
Always wanting a unique wardrobe, I started making my own clothing in high school. To this day, my inspiration is drawn from the texture and print of fabric. I founded Shift Clothier, Inc. in 2010 with the intention of giving mature women a clothing line that is ageless, comfortable and fun to wear.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I hand make small batch clothing and leather accessories and jewelry for women. I started Shift clothing to inspire women to express their authentic style through fashion and to give women a hip option of clothing choice to help develop personal style.
I am inspired by clean lines and basic shapes accented with quirky and unique detailing. “If you have a basic shape with clean lines, you can basically add anything to it.” Your clothing should reflect your spirit and your soul. When you wear something that makes you feel good, you are showing your true authenticity.
What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
It can be lonely, but reaching out and making connections is a must. There are artists groups and networking groups that are beneficial. I also suggest reaching out to someone that may inspire you or that you may look up to and connecting with them. Find people who you can help and who can help you. Build your tribe.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
You can find my work at the Andersonville Galleria, on etsy (www.etsy.com/shop/juliekramershift), Col-lec-tiv, and at various shows in the city (One of a Kind, Chicago Artisan Market, Chicago Made Market, Niche Fair).
Contact Info:
- Address: 611 S. Wells Street, Unit 1702
Chicago, IL 60607 - Website: http://www.juliekramershift.com
- Phone: 7735449128
- Email: julie@juliekramershift.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliekramershift/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shiftclothierinc/
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/juliekramershift
Image Credit:
Julie A Kramer
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