58 www.CharlestonWomenPodcast.com | www.ReadCW.com | www.Instagram.com/CharlestonWomen HOLST + LEE Holst + Lee, a jewelry company in Charleston, embodies a boho chic vibe, while delving into Lowcountry artistry. Creative director Natalie Holst studied art at the College of Charleston before moving to New York City at 24 to pursue fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology. In 2012, she founded HOLST + LEE, blending art-inspired accessories with her business background background from Proenza Schouler and Marc Jacobs. Drawing inspiration from the city’s vibrant nightlife for her bold, avant-garde creations, a brand was born. Later, Holst worked as general manager at the Surf Lodge in Montauk, N.Y., where she became the vibrant face of the restaurant, dressing up each night to set the perfect vibe. “I would go to the hardware store, and I wanted to make colorful jewelry, so I bought rope and started messing with it,” said Holst. “When I went into work people started responding to it — buying it right off my neck.” Grammy-winning artist Rihanna’s stylist ended up coming into the Surf Lodge. Impressed by Holst’s colorful jewelry, she asked Holst to do 150 for a fashion show. Holst was excited by the offer but reflected that she honestly didn’t know anything about jewelry at the time. She knew about clothes and art, but not jewelry.“That’s why our jewelry feels so much different than others; because there is an inspiration of an art and clothing feel,” said Holst. “There’s hardware and fabric and color.” This propelled HOLST + LEE into prominence. 12 years later, driven by a passion for pushing boundaries, Holst’s eclectic yet elegant creations captivate fashion connoisseurs. Back in Charleston, her journey from fashion observer to celebrated creator is a testament to talent, vision and relentless pursuit of excellence. SARAH ALEXIS Step into the world of Sarah Alexis, Charleston’s premier clothing brand where sophistication meets innovation. Each garment is meticulously crafted with modern silhouettes, creating timeless wardrobe staples. Founder Sarah Alexis has over a decade of experience in fashion and apparel management. She launched her brand in Charleston in April 2021, drawing on the city’s classic charm. “Our mission is to encapsulate intentional design and quality products to create timeless wardrobe favorites,” said Alexis. Looking ahead, Sarah Alexis plans to expand with new fall and spring collections, featuring cotton dresses and linen pieces for spring of 2025. Initially filling a void in Charleston’s fashion scene, Alexis listens closely to customer feedback to refine timeless designs. “Our products are geared toward the long game — timeless, elegant pieces that can be worn in different ways and are wardrobe staples,” relayed Alexis. Inspired by Nicholas Sparks’ romantic sophistication, Sarah Alexis designs enduring garments that capture elegance and quality. As the brand evolves, it continues to set new standards of beauty and sophistication in Charleston and beyond. Meet the Designers Creativity flows in Charleston BY BROOKE KAPING Charleston Women in the Arts Natalie Holst of Holst + Lee. Sarah Alexis.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1