Style Insider: Lisa Kline Answers Your Designer Questions All Week! - Stylehive

Stylehive has a style celebrity answering budding designers' questions all week - miss Lisa Kline! We asked you to send your questions for the L.A. retail queen, and your designs for her to consider selling on lisakline.com. The response was INSANE. But we managed to narrow down all of your questions, and after pouring through your line sheets, Lisa picked her favorite "undiscovered" designer to feature in her online boutique!

We'll start Lisa Kline Week off with two related questions from two up-and-coming designers on the best way to separate themselves from a crowded field.

Devin Hajek: As a beginning independent designer, what is the best approach, besides the trade shows, to get in front of buyers and store owners like yourself?

Lisa Kline: With buyers being so inundated with designers and new lines, it is very difficult to get recognized. Being organized and professional is key. Emailing line sheets (email is more efficient than sending through the post office) with professional models/photos, along with sizing and pricing, makes considering the line easier to do. Also, sending samples to wear and try out is a great way to get noticed. If I wear something from a new designer and I get comments on it, then I am more likely to want to carry it in my store. Its also more time efficient, which is another important factor.

June Chang: As an independent handbag designer with a limited budget, how I can build up my brand recognition and take my brand to the next level?

LK: It is tough for new designers, so finding someone to represent you, like a showroom, is a good way to get recognized. Gifting items to a celebrity who gets photographed is a great way to get press and buzz. Also, finding an investor so you can afford some PR and have the ability to produce/manufacture once orders come in is a good way to successfully build your brand.

Check back tomorrow for some "colorful" advice from Lisa - and don't forget, she gives an undiscovered style star her big break on Friday!