Ashley Rosenbaum '15
Ashley Rosenbaum’s story has all the elements of a fairytale-like story. Her plot line is this: young designer is discovered on social media and her work ends up in British Vogue.
Rosenbaum ’15 was a fashion design student while at Radford University. She created her own clothing line, branded Ashley Rose. Her designs fit girls from toddler to tween.
It was her Ashley Rose brand page on Instagram that caught the eye of British Vogue.
“They found my brand page and, after viewing my website, they contacted me and said my luxury look would fit perfectly in their magazine and that they would love for me to be one of their featured designers for the October, November and December editions,” she said.
Rosenbaum’s inspiration for the work in the magazine came from the District 12 lifestyle in the “Hunger Games” trilogy. The movies are set in a dystopian future and District 12 is located in a place similar to Appalachia. Her fashions have a natural and rustic feel about them. She said they are chic yet comfortable.
British Vogue’s October edition features her ribbon floral jumper and turtleneck top. For November’s issue she showcased a teddy bear vest paired with a turtleneck top and leggings.
“As for the December British Vogue, there hasn’t been a decision on what look will be featured next, so grab a copy when it hits newsstands to find out!” she recommends.
Rosenbaum began designing children’s fashion in 2013. She found examples of children’s wear adorable, specifically mini-me fashions and mini fashion bloggers on social media. This inspired her to try her hand at those styles.
She started working with Holly Cline’s daughters Hollybrook and Laney. Cline is the chair of the Department of Design.
“Just working with them helps me learn what kids do, and do not, like to wear and the fun environment that comes along with the children’s fashion Industry,” Rosenbaum said. Both have modeled for her.
Radford University has had a positive impact on the designer in other ways. Working with fashion design faculty Kathy Mitchell and John Jacob, along with her classmates for three years, she found a support network to carry her through her studies. This encouraged her to start her own brand.
Ashley Rose is flourishing and Cline’s daughters continue to model for the brand.
In early October, Rosenbaum presented her collection during Roanoke’s Fashion Week. Her work is also in Tattler Magazine, House of Coco Magazine Vol. 7, and Designer Spotlight on houseofcoco.net. Mini fashion bloggers @ForEverAndForAva, @babyellestyle and @chasinivy have written about her work, as well.
To see more of the Ashley Rose collection, please visit www.shopashleyrose.com and @shopashleyrose on social media.