We had the good fortune of connecting with Liz Lowe and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Liz, why did you pursue a creative career?
My interests have always been in fashion. Growing up, I made my own dresses, wore scarves in my hair almost daily, and often expressed myself through my style. In 2009, I began modeling. I didn’t know how to walk in heels, but I had the motivation to learn until it became natural. Over the years, I have done fashion shows, photography classes, drawing classes, and stylized & promotional photoshoots with other creatives in Colorado and elsewhere. I love showcasing art via fashion shows/shoots, and helping designers promote and sell their work through these different mediums. While participating in events throughout the Denver area, I realized I enjoyed not only modeling but having a role behind the scenes, as well.
I had been making things and upcycling old items (including a shirt my dad used as a shoeshine rag!) for years and I wanted to showcase my creativity through something more. In 2017, I turned my passion into a career and started Fawn Fabrications. I design headpieces and accessories with mostly repurposed materials. Constructing things for myself gave me the inspiration to create what I wanted to see. My modeling background gave me the confidence to turn my designs into something others would want wear, too. I aim for my pieces to make a statement, to tell a story, to empower others, and to express individuality.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My pieces are made of recycled circuit boards, old tech, bullet casings, and fabrics, turning a classic trend of wearing things on your head into something new, modern, and unique. Necklaces, earrings, and other accessories can be paired with headpieces or worn individually for a more subtle statement. I’m drawn to using materials that have been styled in an unexpected way.
My first headpiece was created when I saw materials next to each other in my room that immediately inspired me – fabric flowers and bullet casings. I located all the items I needed and made a piece that night. The next few weeks I spent finding materials in my home, including old computer parts, to create headpieces. I realized others may love to wear the pieces I was making, too. I designed two lines, the Tech line made of recycled tech & circuit boards, and the Bullet Crown line made with recycled bullet casings, florals, and other natural elements, including deer antlers and pheasant feathers. This line includes the Goddess collection and Colorado collection. I am currently focused on adding pieces to the Abandoned Line, made with various tech, circuit boards, florals, bullet casings, and other recycled materials (even old sandal straps!).
I am most excited to feature the Abandoned Line in larger scale whether on the runway or in a group photoshoot. I have featured two pieces on the runway so far but am eager to showcase a cohesive set.
I am proud of the pieces I have designed. I love styling others and seeing the joy it brings. It is truly an art form. I have been fortunate to see my pieces on brides, mothers-to-be, hosts, and people at concerts/festivals, as well as models on the runway and in shoots. There is a statement to be made in every piece, and I enjoy seeing others own their confidence and make that statement themselves.
Designing isn’t all that comes with a career in the fashion realm, and it isn’t always simple. I have taken on the roles of coordinator, director, and stylist at photoshoots. Showcasing at fashion shows and vendor events, and promoting on various platforms are other important aspects. I have been fortunate to work with some amazing people in the industry here in Colorado. It could not have been possible without the photographers, videographers, hair/makeup artists, designers, models, and event coordinators in the space.
Attending events and networking in person is not as easy while having young children. I have learned to be more careful with my time, energy, and what events I may or may not be able to participate in. While this can be a challenge, being a mother is worth it. I have made valuable connections over the years and am able to continue these relationships through social media, as well as build new ones. I am also learning how to better showcase my work to a wider network of people through these platforms.
My brand is for the ones who go against the norm and don’t have a problem standing out… from those who are going to a high-scale event in a cocktail dress, to those spending a weekend at a festival, to those sitting on the porch in rugged boots watching the sunset with family, and to everyone in between. I want others to see themselves in my pieces as individuals and to own their style no matter what life throws at them.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There is so much to do in Colorado and I love when my friends and family come to visit. I would absolutely want to make their trip geared toward their interests and preferences, while being cost-effective.
Snowboarding/skiing is a must (as long as it’s in season!). I would start with a few nights near Breckenridge, enjoying the slopes, hot tub, and downtown vibe. Then we would spend some time relaxing at my home with gorgeous mountain views from the balcony, sipping wine and watching the sunset. Visiting Denver and exploring art museums, boutiques, and a few breweries would also be on the agenda. There are so many great options to try! Then, we can check out a restaurant for dinner and head to a Rockies or Avalanche game. Finishing out the week, we would go hiking near the Morrison/Evergreen area and spend time outdoors as much as possible.
I find that when others come to Colorado, they are most excited by the scenery and the ability to experience nature in a way they may not do often. You can’t go wrong showing best friends and family the beauty of this state!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband absolutely deserves a shoutout. He has been there since the very beginning, supporting me in my modeling aspirations and in my design career. He has come to countless shows and shoots over the years to encourage me, see me showcase my work and that of other designers, take behind the scenes footage, and carry bags/boxes/trunks full of headpieces when I need his help. He hangs out with me while I stay up late making something new and gives me the feedback I need. We have built an amazing family and I’m lucky to have him by my side.
Website: www.fawnfabrications.com
Instagram: instagram.com/fawnfabrications
Other: instagram.com/liz_lowe https://linktr.ee/fawnfatale
Image Credits
Ellie Rich Artistry Jonny Edward Tulux Studios Terry Ewald Blue Eclipse Photography Christopher Puga Como Captures