Cryptic Rock
[as originally published on crypticrock.com]
Artistic expression comes in many forms. Some use their voice as a singer, others with an instrument or as a composer, some with the stroke of a brush as a painter, but others use a needle and thread as a fashion designer. A former stylist who has worked with Rock artists such as Slash and Steel Panther, Lindsay Hearts has found success as an entrepreneur and founder of the FOXBLOOD fashion line.
A Rock-influenced fashion line with an edge, FOXBLOOD uses high-quality, vegan and cruelty-free materials, and is a 100% female owned and operated company. Proud of the success, Hearts recently took the time to talk FOXBLOOD, influences, working with Rock artists, plus a whole lot more.
Cryptic Rock – You have had a very interesting career to this point. As a former stylist, you have worked artists such as Slash as well as members of Megadeth and Steel Panther. You now run a fashion line. First, briefly tell us, what inspired your artistic direction early on?
Lindsay Hearts – I was given my first sewing machine when I was 13 years old and have been creating things ever since. Mötley Crüe was definitely an early inspiration for me. I’ve always been really inspired by musicians with an extreme stage wear aesthetic and presence, and that’s really what led me to want to dress bands and musicians.
Cryptic Rock – Very cool. Now, since 2017, you have run your own fashion line called FOXBLOOD. How did FOXBLOOD come about for you?
Lindsay Hearts – FOXBLOOD was born when I was designing everyday pieces for bands, and the audience started to take notice. I was also selfishly designing pieces for myself that I couldn’t find elsewhere but really wanted in my wardrobe.
Cryptic Rock – The designs are really quite good. Looking at your designs it is clear there is a darker Rock-n-Roll edge to your vision. Was that always something you wanted to bring forth with your designs?
Lindsay Hearts – As an artist, I feel we lean on inspiration in dark times. I’ve always been a little dark at heart and drawn to a darker aesthetic. I always say I do my best work when I’m uncomfortable. Take that as you will.
Cryptic Rock – Very interesting to hear, something different inspires everyone. What is also really cool about FOXBLOOD is you use vegan and cruelty-free materials. That in mind, have you had any musicians show interest in your designs for onstage performances or promotional photoshoots?
Lindsay Hearts – Yes, Carla and Heidi from Butcher Babies. They’ve definitely been interested in vegan stage wear and I’ve gotten to dress them on multiple occasions — including for their album shoot!
Cryptic Rock – That is awesome! Maybe you can work with them again for their new music. So, what is your ultimate vision for FOXBLOOD in the future?
Lindsay Hearts – I want to keep FOXBLOOD small and exclusive with small batch runs so the pieces remain special, and the buyer always feels like they have something rare. I don’t want it to become a massive corporation — I want to keep the indie/alternative vibe alive, and I always want items to be made in L.A.
Cryptic Rock – That is a very clear mission. You clearly have the drive and vision which has lead to success. What do you feel have been the keys for you to succeed and overcome any obstacles that may come your way?
Lindsay Hearts – Yoga. (Laughs) But no, really. Definitely taking a step back and realizing the accomplishments that I have created. I feel like when you’re in the moment you don’t realize how quickly things are happening and how quickly you’re accomplishing things — you never really allow yourself to take a moment to appreciate everything you’ve built. So when I’m overwhelmed, I like to stop, breathe, and take in those moments to help me recognize that I am on the right path and doing what I love; that I am right where I am meant to be.
Cryptic Rock – That is a good practice for mental and physical health. Times are changing and fortunately we are seeing more female entrepreneurs receiving the attention they deserve. Unfortunately it seems there are still many misogynistic men in the business world. As a strong female leader, how do you approach these issues from a business standpoint?
Lindsay Hearts – Well, I have absolutely no problem walking away from a man who doubts me. I think I’ve been successful in situations like that because I know that I can 100% make it without the help of any man.
Cryptic Rock – That is very inspiring to hear and hopefully young, aspiring women understand that. You seem to be someone who really loves music. So who are some of your favorite artists?
Lindsay Hearts – I definitely cross a lot of genres of music. Currently, Megan Thee Stallion is a huge inspiration for me. I love a strong female lead who is not afraid to promote success within yourself, to know you are your biggest cheerleader.
Cryptic Rock – Interesting, she certainly has made a big impact in recent years. Last question. If you are a fan of Horror movies, what are some of your favorites and why?
Lindsay Hearts – My favorite Horror movie is Killer Klowns from Outer Space(1988) because it is absolutely outlandish yet somehow so terrifying. It’s ridiculous — these clowns literally wrap people in cotton candy to kill them. But, I mean, I think killer clowns on the loose in the city would terrify anyone. Also, that theme song will be stuck in my head for the entire month of October.