Jessa Brinkmeyer is the owner of Pivot, Chicago’s first boutique devoted to eco-fashion. Pivot carries more than 40 designers who use organic and sustainable materials to create beautiful, inspired fashion.
Originally from Nebraska, Jessa attended Northwestern University to study journalism. While working in media relations as an associate editor at a local magazine, she learned about the burgeoning eco-fashion industry.
Jessa was the recipient of a Green Award from Chicago magazine for her work in promoting green design and fashion. In addition to the boutique, you can see examples of Pivot’s clothing at the Museum of Science and Industry’s Smart Home exhibit.
My favorites…
Must Have - Scent:
Ambre Blends Ambre essence. This is my MUST HAVE! It’s made with 100% organic oil and the scent is so subtle, but amazing. I’m not one to wear a lot of fragrance so this is perfect because it blends in with your own natural body chemistry so well. I actually carry it in Pivot and everyone who I make try it loves it.
Moisturizer:
Origins A Perfect World – makes my skin feel so soft and
nourished.
Which lip gloss are you addicted to this month?
I usually always have a lip balm from Eco Lips around for moisture.
I feel prettiest when...
I’m comfortable. That is my priority in creating outfits and getting ready. It doesn’t mean I’m in sweats or pjs – it just means that I’m in styles and fabrics that I feel good in and I feel like myself.
I'm always searching for...
Shoes. I actually hate shoe shopping and I can never find ones that I really like. But for summer I’m in love with my Mohop sandals and rely on them way too much.
My favorite place to shop is...
Other than Pivot? I love going to Green Grocer for groceries!
The last thing I do before I go to bed is...
Double check my alarm, like 7 times – I’m obsessive over making sure my alarm is set. I don’t know why since I always sleep later than I should anyways.
If I wasn't a shop owner, I would...
Open a museum.
Favorite fashion trend of all time...
I like the move toward mixing and matching. Whether it be in terms of price points, designers, vintage/non-vintage, seasons, etc. I like the concept of people making each piece their own and creating looks unique unto themselves.
What's for breakfast?
Unfortunately usually nothing, but I’m recently getting hooked on Naked juice smoothies. And…no more coffee. I’m trying to give up caffeine and it’s so hard.
What are you reading?
I’m in the process of making it through 2666 by Roberto Bolano. It’s great, I’m just always too tired to make much progress at the end of the day. But I always read Time magazine every week.
Never/Always
Thoughtlessness/Thoughtful
Favorite restaurant?
Mana on Division Street. The tomato pumpkin ravioli is my heaven.
Besides your cup of joe this morning, what was the last item you bought?
I bought Origins makeup actually. They are just starting a cosmetics packaging recycling program, which I think is pretty great.
Last concert you went to…
I made it to the last 3 songs in Here We Go Magic’s set at the Beat Kitchen a couple weeks ago. So good.
Going green?
Of course! I try to think about new ways all the time to live a more eco-conscious life. But the biggest thing that I probably do is not own a car – I walk and take the CTA everywhere. But if I do need a car I use I GO Car sharing.
My favorite spa treatment is…best at…
I’m not a big spa person. I would much rather have my hair done, I love having my hair done. I go to Rebecca at Thairapy Plus in Lincoln Square. She did the most amazing job when I decided after 6 months of having red hair, I wanted to be back to my blonde!
