Something that’s very important to me as a creative and fashion ghoul is finding other creative creeps in the world. They uplift, inspire, create and bring the spooky right out of me. Growing up alternative and stylistically different from the people around you can make you feel isolated, odd, and just like something is not working with you. People can put you down and judge the choices you make for self expression, and it’s hard!! Growing up I didn’t have a lot of alternative, glamorous and inclusive resources/shops for a really long time. It’s so crazy to think about a pre-internet world where it was harder to find that style (other than Hot Topic or Spencers at the local mall) . I love seeing the internet help bring those people, shops, creators, influencers, whatever! Into each other's lives. It can help develop personal style with confidence and ressources to thrive and embrace the gothic glamorous life that some of us are meant to have! 

So as much as I love talking directly to ya’ll every other week on this blog, I thought it was about time to hear from some of the women behind the scenes at Bête Noire. I’ve asked some questions to the founder, Alicia, and beloved collaborator Marley. Alicia is the founder and head of Bête Noire, and wow! Bringing stylish, couture and gothic gowns into the lives of so many people. It really is special and I love seeing creativity expand with every new product that she comes out with! Marley is the founder, CEO and HBIC of Glam Goth Beauty. Bringing horror themed and high quality makeup into our ghoulish lives. I am so beyond inspired by these women and cannot wait to see everything else they’ve got in store for Bête Noire! So, ladies! Take it away:

-Who or what are some of your biggest inspirations?-

Alicia: Progressive thinkers like Nikola Tesla and Alan Watts. Snowboarding - something about being in the moment on the mountain has helped me push my boundaries creatively. MARLEY! She is unapologetically herself and a style icon.

Marley: My biggest inspirations are different times and eras, like rock and roll fashion of the 80’s and the Hollywood glamor of the 1950’s. I am also constantly inspired by nature, architecture, and music. Horror movies and Gothic Poetry are my reigning inspirations for sure!

-What are some of key inspirations to the new collection?-

-Alicia: At the time I designed the new collection I was listening to Moby’s ambient and instrumental albums. The tracks are really dark and haunting - the aesthetic I was going for was beauty within the darkness.

-Is there a particular piece that’s come out recently that’s your favorite?-

Alicia: The Sacred Heart Necklace. I had a vision of what I wanted it to look like and we were really able to bring that to life. I’ve never seen anything like it.

Marley: The “Marley Dress” of course! Haha! But no seriously, I am deeply obsessed with literally anything Alicia makes. All of her dresses are just so iconic but that Marley dress was such a moment for me getting to do a photoshoot in it. Made it that much more special. Anyone who gets to wear that dress for their special day is truly blessed! 

-What are some dream projects you’d like to bring to life at Bête Noire one day?-

Alicia: I would love to put together a immersive fashion show experience showcasing our couture designs with live music. It may happen sooner than later because of this question Ally! 🖤

Marley: Everything has been a dream so far but I would absolutely love to do something for Fashion Week, or even throw our own fashion show here in LA! Would be so cool! 

-Is there anything else we should be excited for? Anything special to keep an eye out for?-

Alicia: I’m so excited to finally spill the beans! We will be exclusively partnering with Glam Goth Beauty for our new line “GLAM GOTH” by Bête Noire. The fashionable but affordable line will be available for purchase exclusively at Glam Goth Beauty. We also have a new Vampire and Werewolf inspired collab coming out called Bite by Jerassick.

Marley: I am beyond excited for Glam Goth clothing manufactured by Bête Noire! The pieces we have are so good and I know everyone will love them! We have a skirt named the “Countess Corset Skirt” that Is absolutely iconic and comfortable and I’m so stoked to see them on everyone! 

-Spooky season is upon us, are things starting to get crazy or what?!-

Alicia: THINGS ARE NUTS! We’re sold out of almost everything we keep in stock and couture orders are rolling out in preparation for Halloween. It’s been a wild ride but I’m looking forward to seeing all the beautiful photos from our October Brides!

Marley: I feel like things are crazy 24/7 for me haha! Since this season is my absolute favorite, I did promise myself to have more fun this year. I haven’t been able to enjoy a spooky season since I started Glam Goth and that’s definitely going to change this year.

-What next for Bête noire?-

Alicia: My biggest goal is to really expand our collection. Masculine couture and handbags are in the near future. I would love to have the opportunity to do some red carpet pieces.

I’m personally so excited to see what is in store next for Bête Noire and the amazing things coming from both these women. Seeing them thrive, conquer and just kill it with everything they do personally inspires me so much! I am so beyond lucky to work within the same circle as them and I am beyond proud to be a part of the Bête Noire team myself! Keep an eye out everyone, clearly some exciting stuff is on its way!! I hope this just has you on the edge of your seat to see what’s next as well. 

To send feedback or suggestions for upcoming posts contact ally@shopbetenoire.com