Ego Interviews: Lacy Brunnette

So, you're a fashion blogger and tech scenester. Does that mean you help people find pocket protectors that match their shoes?

In case you haven’t heard: “Nerd” is so “In” right now and has been building massive following for the past couple of years. Being a fashion blogger and tech scenester is a natural combination, because nerds always have the coolest gadgets or know how to use them to find cool apparel.

And what about your gig at Doextra? What do you do there? How exactly do you help market a company whose name sounds like a diet pill?

The short of it is that dextra.com was already taken as a URL, so an “o” was added to the name. Think of the word “Dextrus,” which is the origin of the company name – meaning nimble and fleet of foot. I plan and manage Doextra’s corporate marketing and public relations strategy. Doextra is a professional services firm that specializes in sales training and performance through CRM consulting and solutions. Surprisingly, there is not much difference between marketing technology and a diet pill – it is an education and training process for all consumers.

Is creativity a skill that can be learned or a talent you are born with?

You are born with it. Creativity comes in many different forms, but it is inherent and intuitive. If you aren’t particularly creative, chances are you have another attribute that you can make a difference with in the world.

Where do you go or what do you do for creative inspiration?

Two things: music and the Des Moines Art Center. Some of the best users of technology and fashion are musicians. For example, Karen O. from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs or the Japanese band, The Suzan. Locally, the Des Moines Art Center is my refuge for finding beautiful things in both art and nature. Have you seen the Surface Value exhibit? Point made.

Who are the trendiest trend-setters in town? What do you like about them?

Lucy Shay, Fashion Blogger, Model & RAYGUN kid… Lucy is the most “photo-ready” person in Des Moines. Every time I run into her, she has this awesome indie style going on. It seems to revolve around fire engine red skinny jeans.

Jessica Miller & Erica Carnes of Hill Vintage… I can’t talk enough about how these girls are helping change the fashion vibe and scene in Des Moines. They provide accessible, fun clothing to people of all ages through their company, Hill Vintage. Hill Vintage purchases are reasonably priced and always win me mad compliments when I’m out and about.

Justin Schoen of eComegy and President of the Des Moines Music Coalition… Here’s a tech entrepreneur that knows how to leverage his talents to drive interest in music and the arts. Justin is refreshingly unpretentious and accessible – making him a very in-the-know man-about-town.

If you had to be another animal, what animal would you choose and why?

I would be a pug. Everyone would want to be my friend and take pictures of me. Pugs make people smile with their funny faces and charming nature.

If we were to rummage through your closet, what would be your faves that we'd run across?

Leg warmers, big rings, designer frames, and flat boots. All of my clothes and accessories are statement-making and more importantly, always suitable for active adventuring in an urban playground.

What's the craziest thing you've ever done?

Do you have the security clearance for that question?

Watch The Bachelor at home or attend one of Charlie Sheen's tour shows? Which one and why?

The Bachelor is so lame. I’d rather see a melt-down first hand. Give me a Charlie Sheen debacle any day.

Des Moines needs more _________.

People interested in green technology and innovation. We should be buying local with a larger access to ecological materials for homes, clothing, food, fuel, etc. Also, where is Des Moines’ enthusiasm for sustainability? It would be great to see more action from both our public leaders and community dwellers. The Technology Association of Iowa, Market Day Iowa, and Locally Grown are just a few organizations that are helping heighten this awareness.

What are your thoughts on the creative vibe in Des Moines? Good? Bad? How could it be improved?

Good and getting better. Depending on your crowd and scene, you can find some very cool situations. However, I would like to say that there is way too much public justifying going on about why Des Moines is awesome. If you believe it, live it. The nation notices when Iowa produces progressive arts and community initiatives, economic support for artists and dreamers, and strong sustainability efforts. We are well on our way and should continue to keep pushing forward.