Read about Estefi's new venture as the Creative Director of Take Three Studios!
1. Where do you typically find design inspiration?
ER: Most of my inspiration comes from my travels, personal experiences, and different cultures I've had the opportunity to be exposed to. But on a day-to-day basis, especially when I'm working on a project, I am Pinterest's number 1 fan! I also look up references on various Instagram accounts. Two of my favorite sites for online insiration are awwwards.com and typographicposters.com
2. How would you describe your personal style?
ER: I have struggled with body image issues my entire life, and it wasn't until now that I've truly started exploring clothing that makes ME feel good, not the people around me. I think my style is comfortable-- jeans/pants, with a good flowy crop or off the shoulder shirt... but always with a good pair of sneakers or boots.
3. Who would you say has been your biggest influence- style wise, personally, or professionally?
ER: I don't think I have a "Style icon" of sorts, but I do think that Katie Sturino and her #SuperSizeMyLook has helped a ton when it comes to seeing myself in different outfits and seeing how one outfit can be worn by different bodies. Also, Hannah Bronfman. I love her style!
4. What is some professional advice you received that helped you navigate your current projects + career path?
ER: I am someone who invests a lot of herself in projects, so one of the biggest pieces of advice I've been given throughout my career by peers, leaders, and even my therapist is that "most of the time it is not about YOU, its a reflection of others and not because the client, peer or professor doesn't like your approach it means its personal, you can always learn from those experiences and take them on to the next."
Now that I run my own business this is key. You can't take all the effort you've put into the project and let it cloud you. If it's a client's project, we are here to guide and advise them, but at the end of the day, nobody knows your business like you do.
Oh-- and the Second Life Podcast has given me the best advice--period.
Now that I run my own business this is key. You can't take all the effort you've put into the project and let it cloud you. If it's a client's project, we are here to guide and advise them, but at the end of the day, nobody knows your business like you do.
Oh-- and the Second Life Podcast has given me the best advice--period.
5. Personal Motto?
You are enough, just the way you are. Your past does not define you.
6. Favorite thing to do in Quito? (Restaurant, Activity)?
We are still getting adjusted to this new life, but one of my favorite things to do is go to the park (kind of like Central Park x Forest Park in Portland) and always always always heading to the market to buy groceries. I'm a sucker for all the good produce at amazing prices.
7. Favorite Piece of Jewelry? (We'd love to hear about something special/specific to you-- a gift you received from a great friend, a sentimental heirloom, your first big purchase, etc).
The most special piece of jewelry is one I wear daily-- a gold chain given to me by my parents that holds a Jade PI (chinese pendant) given to me by Meijun's (my boyfriend) mom.