Norma Hill has a unique ability to capture our life passions and translate them into beautiful fashion pieces that inspire!  One of Norma’s latest creations was an incredible shawl for social change photographer, Michele Zousmer of Rancho Santa Fe.  Norma’s creative talents paired with Michele’s brilliant and powerful photography made for a striking shawl that is not to be missed.

Said Michele, "Norma, made me a fabulous shawl using images I took in Ethiopia.  Every time I wear it I receive so many compliments.  The color of the images and the sharpness is perfect.   I can't tell you how glamorous I feel when wearing it out and about!  Thank you Norma. I love it!!”

Michele Zousmer travels the world photographing divergent peoples and cultures. The resulting images express the dignity of our universal connection. As she explains,  “I am a humanitarian photographer. I use my camera as a tool to help me tell stories of people and cultures around the world.  I believe the visual image is powerful and can create a lasting impression of emotion, curiosity, caring and hope of mankind.  In the right hands an image can help people heal, advocate, empower and be given dignity . I hope my work is adding to the global conversation of diversity.”

The soulful intimacy of Michele’s photos comes from having developed personal relationships with her subjects, spending time in their world and capturing the essence of their culture.

Norma and Michele share a deep passion for bringing awareness to pressing humanitarian issues and this piece is a wonderful representation of their passion.

For more information on Michele Zousmer Photography click here.

As a Norma Hill Designs Ambassador and travel lover myself, I took
some of my favorites fashion pieces out to Joshua Tree National Park this past weekend. As my boyfriend, his dog and I made our way out to the high-desert for the first time, I couldn’t help but to be so mesmerized by the Joshua Trees lining the road and going on for miles and miles. They have such a distinct look to them – unlike any other tree I’ve seen and I quickly began to see what makes this park so iconic.  On our first night we took a sunset hike on a desert trail which ended in some huge boulders that overlooked the valley. Craving some adventure, we climbed up the steep boulders and quickly found ourselves at the top with an incredible view just in time for sunset. There really is something special about a desert sunset; somehow the colors are more vibrant, the landscapes silent and later the stars breathtaking.

Camping at Ryan Campground, we were surrounded by beautiful mountains and Joshua Trees which made for a perfect background while cooking up some dinner with our camp stovetop on a picnic table and sharing stories around the warm fire. 

I never go on a trip without my Nature’s Fantasy Shawl.  and this trip was no exception. The soft pashmina material kept my neck warm and looks super cute with anything from hiking attire to boho chic to elegant dress. I find myself reaching for it no matter what I’m wearing!

So, enjoy Joshua Tree and do yourself a favor and invest in a beautiful Nature’s Fantasy Shawl. It will be your new favorite accessory! 

Keep wandering and keep loving beautiful people. 

Xx, Elle Farrell

P.S. Stay tuned for the super special and new necklace coming soon to the website (sneak peek below!)

Norma Hill Designs is pleased to partner with the Sean O’Shea Foundation, a San Diego non-profit that works to bring mindfulness practices to Title I schools and organizations that serve “at-risk” youth. FromDecember 1 through 24, Norma Hill Designs will donate a percentage of all purchases to the Sean O’Shea Foundation to help fund its CALM Kids initiative, which trains educators in techniques that weave mindfulness into daily class activities. 

Says Norma Hill, "An important part of my business is connecting with causes that I am passionate about.  I am grateful that I can use my creative talent to help at risk youth in some small way."

She's an artist, designer, photographer, and refers to herself as a social alchemist. Watch the radio show recording from October 17 to hear how Norma Hill uses her talents and passions by transforming her art into timeless fashion that uplifts and inspires.