Already hailed by InStyle, WWD, and British Vogue, and with tons more press to boot, Karyn Craven of Burning Torch is on fire. Outfitting such celebs as Halle Berry, Jessica Alba, and Teri Hatcher, this star status could have gone to Karyn’s head. We were pleasantly surprised to find a down-to-earth designer with creativity bursting at the seams. Here’s what she had to say about Burning Torch.

EcoSalon: You describe Burning Torch as a “melting pot of energies.” Tell us what this means about the brand.

Karyn Craven: For me, this summarizes the basis of our design philosophy. Whenever we approach new seasons, it’s always a blending of paradox and synergy.

EcoSalon: Since you were little, you wanted to be an artist and you studied painting, drawing, and photography in college. What motivated you to shift from art to clothing design?

Karyn Craven: I don’t really see it so much as shifting away from fine art, but rather, bringing my training as an artist to the medium of fashion. It’s not so much the outcome, but the essence of the activity. I am an artist. I think like an artist. I approach any task or discipline with an artist’s mind.  

EcoSalon: You’ve always believed in recycling and using organic materials, and your commitment predates the current green phenomenon. What are your thoughts on the eco-friendly fashion scene - is it here to stay or is it a passing trend?

Karyn Craven: In my opinion, eco-friendly living is not a trend, but a way of life.  How can one, in today’s world, not be making an effort to make green choices?

EcoSalon: Tell us about your green collection. What are your favorite materials to work with and are there any problems that arise in maintaining sustainability?

Karyn Craven: My absolute favorite materials to work with for the green collection are recycled materials. We take discarded items and transform them into new, extremely beautiful and desirable object. I have a special fondness for cashmere, silk scarves, and vintage Hawaiian shirts.

EcoSalon: What exciting things can we expect from Burning Torch in the future?

Karyn Craven: We’re exploring innovative ideas for recycling and repurposing. Look for these reflected in exciting reinterpretations of the 70s vibe for Resort and Spring 2009.

Visit Burning Torch to see more of Karyn's artistic, eco-friendly fashion.