Interview with Jordan de Ruiter of Sui Generis

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November 19, 2010 by Andrea | Comments (0)

We’ve been searching for the perfect party dress for the numerous Holiday Parties that are about to begin, and we’ve found it with Sui Generis!  Jordan de Ruiter describes her line as “clothing for feminine, confident females who are adventurous and unique.” Sui Generis by Jordan de Ruiter focuses on mostly dresses, tops and rompers that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion!

Join Jordan de Ruiter the evening of December 3rd at the Coal Miner’s Daughter (587 Markham Street, Toronto) for her Sui Generis Trunk Show.  If you can’t make it Friday night, stop by anytime on Saturday December 4th to meet Jordan in person and view her amazing collection!

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?
Feminine. Unique. Classic.

When did you know that you were going to pursue a career in fashion and design?
I always felt like it was something I wanted to do but was nervous to take that step, fashion is a competitive industry! I was asked to start making items for a boutique when I was 16, 4 years ago, and haven’t ever looked back.

What inspired your latest collection?
I did a 6 piece mini collection for Spring 2011, it is very much inspired by gardens and fairy tale stories. It is a very dreamy, girly collection. However the Holiday 2011 collection I am currently designing is inspired by a couple of my favourite Salvador Dali paintings and the styles of the 1920′s. I am really loving where that inspiration is taking me so far and excited to put it into production.

What are your must-have fashion items this fall?
Rompers! Especially with pleating or beading, anything that dresses it up a little bit. Replace your favorite dress with a romper and some tights for a party!

People may be surprised to know…
That although I focus on party dresses I mostly work with cottons, linens, and other natural fibers. People are also surprised when they find out I also don’t use silk. As a vegetarian, it is important to me to keep my line is completely cruelty-free.

Who is your role model or mentor?
I have the best parents in the world who have taught me to do what I am passionate about, and always stay motivated. They inspire me every day! I also wouldn’t be anywhere I am today without the owner of the first boutique I ever sold at, Butter in Collingwood, Ontario. She saw something in me that I didn’t know I could do – thank you Andrea!

What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat?
Underselling my product. It is my advice to everyone starting a business to know your worth! I was shocked to realize I was underselling myself for years and not actually making money!

Where is your favourite place to go with girlfriends?
I love going to a great restaurant or coffee shop! Somewhere we can talk and have fun but still be away from the house!

What do you CRAVE? In business? In life?
To always have passion and love what I do.

Contact Sui Generis at:

suigenerisclothing@yahoo.ca

or visit

Coal Miners Daughter – 587 Markham Street, Toronto
Haute Par Periwinkle – 382 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto

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