Full Names: Beth Wilkas & Julianne Kochel
Age(s): 33 & 29
Currently Residing: Los Angeles,Ca
Currently Listening to: Led Zeppelin
I remember being a teenage girl, I know it's been a while, but I would be at my friend Sara's house
. We had just gotten back from the thrift store. There they were...rags or at least that what they could have appeared to be. For us, it was treasure...designer treasure! We would cut up, sew, put together all kinds of creations and that became our "punk expression." All I remember was a lot of lace and a lot of safety pins.L.A. denizens, Beth Wilkas & Julianne Kochel are grown-up women doing just that...putting an array of fabrics, stitches and textile concoctions fit for the likes of Jada Pinkett-Smith. These two fashion mavens have taken the L.A. scene and put it into their creative styles. No trashiness here my friends, just pure rock n' roll threads...ready and raring to go!
What began your relationship with the business of fashion and what were your first aspirations?
We just started making clothes for ourselves we got tired of all the clothing in stores these days just not fitting right. Our aspirations come from listening to rock n roll music.
What types of fabrics/textiles do you like to use most?
We love using denim, leather, camo, or anything industrial. We also like to bleach, dye or distress fabric. We don't like it if something looks too brand new.
How did you come up with your label name?
The first photo shoot with a local band. We were all sitting around drinking beers and eating pizza and basically pulled it out of our ass. We Love It! (yeah there's a lot of good ideas in asses)
You say that Jada Pinkett-Smith has donned your clothing, how did that come about and who would you most like to see wearing your fashion?Julianne's boyfriend was making a custom mic stand for her & he had our book with him, she happened to see it & loved our look for the Ozzfest tour. We like to see people wearing our clothes who aren't afraid to express themselves, individuals who don't want to be like everybody else, people that know how to just rock it.
How would you describe your fashions?
Industrial, rock n roll inspired.
Do you consider yourselves fashion victims and why?
I think everyone has been a fashion victim at some point in their lives. I think people can wear whatever they want. Fashion is an expression of who you are. If you love yourself it will show, you are only a victim if you choose to be. (I find that Spandex does not suit all body types, I'd say those people were victims)
Fashion trend at this moment you hate the most? Love?
Actually we don't pay attention to "trends" persae. We just make and wear
whatever we want. I hate wearing something everyone else has, that is so boring. (oof, tell me about it...if I see another studded belt or cowboy boot, it's going to be the end of me!)What designers do you most admire?
Any designer that isn't afraid to express themselves. If you have passion it shows in your work.
What's in the future for Rubbish Garb?
Hopefully many things... We have a dream. If you love what you do everything else will follow. (I, myself am digging this concept)
Favorite mode of transport?
Our own vehicles: International Scout & Chevy Blazer
Don't let these self-made designers fool you. They may look like they're going to serve you a beer and call you sugar, but you're more likely going to get some innovative style and really big heart. Just goes to show that if you believe in what you do, anything is possible.
beth@rubbishgarb.com or julianne.k@rubbishgarb.com or visit their WEBSITE.
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