Ruth Ibeawuchi Moglia, the brain behind the RuthyMilano brand
Romanian Model/singer Ruxandra Barau for GT Radial calendar 2013 styled by RuthyMilano
RuthyMilano brand is fashion based and is about completing one's look. It is easier to find the perfect dress but a lot harder finding the right jewellery to complete a look. This is where RuthyMilano comes in. I make accessories which range from corporate to casual; particularly for my jewels I rely on the best gemstones sorted from different areas around the world to produce my beautiful pieces. My goal is to remove the idea of jewellery being worn mainly for social outings and show how versatile the piece can be in everyday fashion. This is why I combine colourful african prints mixed with western taste, to produce my accessories. I love combining colours to literally bring out the beauty in my production, such as necklaces, bags, shoes, belts, lamps, home ware, etc...
Handbag, bangle, earrings and neckpiece from Ruthymilano collection.
2. How has it been running a brand in Milan. A place with different cultures, language. Any challenges ?
Milan is obviously a city filled with fashion lovers and seeing something different from what they are used to is a plus on my side. It happens that people stop me in the street if I wear my creations and ask me where they can buy my accessories. From an idea to the realisation of it didn't take long. I was recently invited for an exhibition and also being called upon by designers and photographers in Milan to be the stylist for their fashion shows or photo-shootings.Things are getting more and more interesting and I am conquering good visibility in a challenging fashion market field.
3. What advice would you give to upcoming female entrepreneurs
My advice is to try diversifying from the mass, creating something personal and unique, and do it with pleasure and passion. The results will come. Do not think that what others are doing can be simply copied and be successful again. Have your own space and think small at the beginning: being realistic is a key in this world...
Ruth in neckpieces, bangles and ankara handbag from her brand
4. Where do you hope to see the ruthymilano brand in 5 years?
I would like to see RuthyMilano expanded to the extent that anybody anywhere can order and get the items delivered as soon as possible to them. But still working at artisanal level where details can be followed and cared personally by me. Today there is no production behind myself. I do everything on my own. Ruthymilano could become a household name on the lips of fashion lovers and be the preferred choice of selected celebrities.
Polish model Olga Kaminska being styled by RuthyMilano for Ross Eurossproject.
5. How would you describe your personal style ? And what motivates you to stay fashionable?
My style for dressing follows a quite simple equation: I wear something if it fits the occasion and my mood. I have favourite designers but I don't mind mixing and matching, from Versace to Zara, to H&M or even unbranded clothes. What counts is my personal taste and the environment I will find myself in"