Jackie Rose shares the story behind the collection, talks travel tips, and tells us how a life of globe-trotting inspired her to create her own line.Q: What inspired you to create TAGS now?
A: I believe it’s so much easier to travel and to live light these days. To carry whatever you need in just one suitcase is freeing. Travel is a lot more complicated than it once was, therefore the need for ease and a lot less fuss is great.
Q: What does travel mean to you?
A: I know firsthand that experiencing other cultures is a wonderful learning experience, but it is also a great adventure!
Q: Favorite airport outfit?
A: Simple and comfortable: jeans, converse, a tee shirt or shirt and a jacket.
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Everywhere! I was born in Colorado, but my father joined the Foreign Service, which had my family on an adventure of a lifetime. We lived in Ethiopia, Rhodesia, Nigeria, Somalia, Washington D.C., Ghana, and finally India for the remainder of my high school years. I came back to the states to start college, but my parents were stationed in Vietnam and then Pakistan, so I spent quite a bit of time there. We also traveled extensively throughout Nepal and Kashmir. I took some schooling in Athens, Greece and lived in Panama with my parents. Then I moved to California to finish school and start my career.
Q: How did you break into fashion?
A: Once upon a time, I was interested in becoming a stockbroker, but thankfully no one would hire me! So on a friend’s suggestion, I landed a job brokering goods and fabrics. I’ve been in the garment industry for 40 years now.
Q: Where do you draw inspiration?
A: I always find myself going back to the Greek isles.
Q: Your best style advice?
A: Whatever is hot for the moment may not be worth following—have fun mixing it up, but always be true to your own image!
Q: How would you describe the TAGS collection?
A: Unmistakably classic pieces that are well made and are long-lasting at an affordable price.
Q: Where are your favorite places to visit?
A: I recently went on a wonderful trip to Brazil, Argentina, and Cartagena which I absolutely loved. I also really love Mexico. The people are so kind, the food is great, and the beaches are breathtaking.
Q: Where to next?
A: Southern Italy is always fabulous, so I hope to get to Corsica next year. Cuba has also been on my list for a while now!
Q: #1 travel tip?
A: Remember you can sleep when you get home, so savor every minute and see all you can, because you might not make it back again! Oh, and leave a little room in your suitcase for a memento or two.