Today we’d like to introduce you to Ronna Holtz.
Ronna, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Growing up in New York City, I was enamored with fashion. NewYork has always been its own mini-universe of designers, musicians, performance artists and creators— and It drew me in from the beginning. I got started in the fashion industry in high school doing an intensive program in Fashion Design, which made a degree in Fashion Design from FIT an easy choice. I was always drawn to the music scene, and found myself consistently searching for the next great band. Most of my free time was spent playing music or going to shows. I loved the music, the originality of artists at that time. Most of all, I loved their style. They were innovators, expressors of what David Bowie called the “inexpressible.” I began styling people in the music industry which took me to Los Angeles. where I really found a creative home. I started my first apparel line called Decomposure. After some time, I took a hiatus in fashion and started writing and traveling and spending time looking inward, as I am a huge fan of reinventing oneself, always working towards growth, be it personal or professional. I recently had been approached by some people wanting me to do customized one offs and style them for events and shows. Between that and all the really great talent revolving around festivals these days in both music and fashion, it inspired some fresh ideas, which led to the launch of another apparel line.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I don’t know if there’s really a straight forward answer to that. I kind of go along navigating circumstances as they arise and make the best of both the gifts and the challenges that are presented. The people I’m close to know that I don’t throw platitudes around–I’m direct, straightforward. We all go through hard times. I put all my emotions into my art, both positive and negative. It’s a choice. You can go down the rabbit hole and lose yourself, or you can turn your energies into something that becomes part of your legacy as a creative person.
I believe in creating the life you want. I never go into something thinking that it will fail–it’s not an option for me. I’ve learned that I don’t need to figure out the “how.” That’s not my job. I just understand that it will come to fruition. I never doubt myself.
Please tell us about LA77thebrand.
We specialize in high-end designer rock tees. Artists and music are my inspiration. I realize that we may not be for everyone, and that’s okay. I get to fill a hole in the industry and am really proud of staying true to my vision. Our vibe is unique and I’m super excited about every design, each piece that goes out. Each mini collection of vintage-inspired T-shirts under the LA77 label draws from a moment in time, paying homage to the places and personalities captured in the iconic rock & roll photography of the 70’s and 80’s. From Patti Smith to David Bowie, CBGB to The Whiskey, every image tells a story–your story of the times, places and artists who inspired you. Just like with music, everyone is an anthology. My goal is for everyone who wears my line to feel good when they put it on…. and if I can inspire others along the way? Well, that’s pretty much everything.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
Music is my heart…..making art is my world. I search for the things that inspire…it’s around us all the time. But I’ve had many along the way. My mentors have been my idols, heroes and closest friends. They are people who emanate spirit. My advice is to find your muses and stay positive. I never gave up on my dreams. I’ve been particular as to who I look to for guidance and what circles I choose to run in. It’s too easy to get distracted so it’s important to learn how to not waste one’s life on distractions and uninspiring people. I’m always looking for the next right thing for me and won’t ever stop fulfilling my dreams.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.la77thebrand.shop
- Email: la77thebrand@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la77thebrand/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/la77thebrand/
Image Credit:
Motorgrrrl Studios
AdELA at SXSW pic by Stockroll
Buckcherry by Front Row Perspective
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