sassy mom spotlight with fashion designer christina monley

Beautiful, charming and incredibly talented, Chrstina Monley is one to watch as Chicago’s latest up and coming designers. A sassy mom of baby Colton, Christina’s energy is contagious. You want to wear her clothes and be her best friend. We first met early this year as she was completing Macy’s Chicago Fashion Incubator program and showcased her collection at the 3rd Annual Girls Night Out Go Red for Women.

Sassy Mom: Christina D. Monley

Kids: Colton Gerard (9 months)

Occupation: Designer and Creative Director of CHRISTINA KARIN

About Christina: Having worked in both fashion and business, from a brief acting and modeling lifestyle to a demanding career on Wall Street, I’ve traveled the globe and now, through my emerging women’s ready-to-wear label, Christina Karin, I share my vision of what’s glamorous. I am a new mom, a fashion-lover, and an entrepreneur with a passion for the latest in style, food, music, art, and travel, but above all I am just a funny girl who loves to laugh and make others feel good.

SMITC Interview with Christina:

SM: What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

CK: I am a first generation American – My mother is Ukrainian and my father is German and I credit them for giving me such an incredible worth ethic. They always pushed me to give my all and not accept anything short of the best, and this has truly shaped everything I do.

SM: What or who inspired you to launch your business? When did you go out on our own?

CK: My husband, Cy, inspires me. He has always been my biggest fan (and I his) and he encouraged me to stop dreaming about my fashion enterprise and actually do it! I left a successful career in finance to pursue Christina Karin full time 2 years ago and it has been one of the best decisions I’ve made – in fact, I wish I had done it sooner.

SM: What should our readers know about your collection? What are you most proud of since launching?

CK: The Christina Karin brand is rooted in sexy sophistication. It is not predictable and has a subtle edgy vibe yet it is always wearable and glamorous. I am most proud of my upcoming Spring/Summer 14 Collection because it is full of beautiful details , such as pockets, lace, and strikingly stunning prints.

SM: What has been the biggest challenge balancing a business and motherhood?

CK: Well I would have to say that being a mom is the hardest job I’ve ever had – it’s 24/7 and the most important part of my day. Having a baby is not only the most beautiful life experience, but teaches you so much about what is really important in life. When I have a challenging work day, all the stress melts away when I see my little boy’s face light up. Now, if I could just get a little more sleep!

SM: What do you love most about being an entrepreneur?

CK: I love the thrill of growing my company little by little – accomplishing goals and achieving. Hard work is like a good workout to me. It get’s the feel-good endorphins going. I also truly love meeting all kinds of new women and hearing their interesting stories. I am in awe of how they are able to manage so much! It gives me great joy to make them feel beautiful.

SM: What’s your “secret” to being Sassy?

CK: I don’t know if there is a “secret” to be honest, but I think I have a few things that keep me balanced – I love to go for little walks outside with my dog, Louis (LouLou). The fresh air and birds always keep me smiling and I get a chance to let things settle in my mind. I also love yoga and cooking – I find them both very rejuvenating.

SM: What is your guilty pleasure when you get a little coveted ‘me’ time?

CK: Reading. I have a library with hundreds of books I would love to get to, but it’s a luxury these days between family and business.

Shop Christina Karin collection online, connect on Facebook and follow on Twitter @ChristinaKarin.

Sassy Facts about Christina

I never leave home without….. my cell phone and lip gloss

My biggest fashion influence is…. Travel and art

My favorite place to shop in Chicago is…. Von Z, Veruca Salt, Krista K, Sarca, & Intermix

My guilty pleasure is…… Oatmeal Cream pies from Bake in Bucktown

My must-have beauty product is…. Mascara, hands down!