Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.
LA-based designer Rory Beca founded her namesake line in 2006 and has since garnered a host of celebrity followers. From Blake Lively and Rihanna to Reese Witherspoon and Kim Kardashian, her star clientele is as diverse as her ultra feminine offerings, which include tops, bottoms, rompers and dresses for every occasion.
Just in time for the release of her new holiday 2012 collection (pictured above and shoppable here), Beca chatted with Racked to explain the range's clever name. She also revealed her top local spots, dream celeb clients and go-to blogs.
What inspired your holiday collection?
"My inspiration always begins with the fabrics and colors and then I build the collection from there. There are gorgeous jewel tones mixed with embellished and beaded pieces."
The collection is called Fifty Shades of Rory Beca. We're assuming you've read the book?
"Yes, at the time we were doing the photo shoot I was heavily into the Fifty Shades of Grey. When I was looking through the pictures after the shoot they looked so seductive and Fifty Shades-like, so I thought it would be fun to play off of the name"
Who would you love to see playing the lead role in the film adaptation?
"A no-name actor. Not sure who that would be. Picturing a known actor kind of ruins it for me."
Who is on your client wish list?
"I usually get more excited when I run into girls on the street wearing my clothes, but as far as celebrities I think it would be fun to dress Emma Stone. I love her look."
Do you have any favorite local blogs?
"I love Sincerely Jules, Desserts for Breakfast, Cupcakes and Cashmere and, of course, Racked LA!"
Thanks! Where do you shop, eat and play in LA?
"I work downtown and live in Santa Monica Canyon, so I tend to stick by the beach during my free time. I love to shop at Tortoise General Store (1208 Abbot Kinney Blvd), Post 26 (225 26th St), and Hiptique (2727 Main St). For dining, I love Cholada Thai (18763 Pacific Coast Highway), The Ivy at the Shore (1535 Ocean Ave) and Sam's By the Beach (108 W Channel Rd). For play, I go to AMF Bowling Alley (234 Pico Blvd) and Solstice Canyon in Malibu."
· Rory Beca