The Quiet Shift: The Journey to REBEL&CHIC

Chandra Morice doesn’t seek the spotlight—but her work tells stories. As the founder and lead decorator of REBEL&CHIC, she’s known for her thoughtful, layered designs and a quiet intensity that draws people in. We sat down with her to talk about the origins of REBEL&CHIC, what drives her, and why rebellion can be beautiful.

Q: What inspired you to start REBEL&CHIC? Chandra: Honestly, I had been brainstorming a career change. Then in the summer of 2021 I sustained a significant injury, and while laid up I binged watched all my favorite home building and reno shows – Motel Makeover,  Tiny House Nation, Love It or List It, Dream Home Makeover - and any projects that incorporated sustainability in their designs really captured my interest. One day, I had this moment, “why haven’t I looked into the decorating industry as a career change?”  That moment led me to conversations with strong women leaders in design and researching education options. As I worked through the Interior Decorating Certificate program at MRU, I was continually pulled and fascinated by thoughtful and sustainable brands.  At the end the program, I genuinely wanted to create spaces where people could express themselves through design, without compromising on sustainability or soul. REBEL&CHIC was born out of that desire to break the rules and do things a bit differently.

Q: Why the name REBEL&CHIC? Chandra: It’s a contradiction, and that’s the point. I’ve always believed you can be edgy and chic, wild and reserved. The name reflects our ethos: we challenge norms, but we do it with sustainable style. It’s about embracing contrast and celebrating individuality through thoughtful choices.

Q: What has business start up been like? Chandra: 

We’re still in the early days—but even now, I can feel the rhythm forming. It started quietly, with late-night ideas, a lot of reading, exploring and listening. I’ve always been drawn to spaces that tell stories, and REBEL&CHIC began as a way to explore that—slowly, intentionally. It’s been a mix of curiosity, trial, and small wins that feel big. I’ve sourced materials from thrift shops, taken family heirlooms and turned them into fresh pieces. Every piece has a story, and that’s what people connect with. It isn’t just decor—it’s storytelling with heart and connection.

Q: Sustainability seems to be a big part of your brand. Why is that important to you? Chandra: 

Because I feel that beauty shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. I grew up in Alberta, surrounded by this magnificent landscape, I think there’s a quiet responsibility in how we create and what we choose to surround ourselves with. I’ve always been drawn to materials and methods that feel considered, and that naturally led to REBEL&CHIC’s direction. People who connect with our work tend to value longevity and meaning. They’re not just decorating—they’re curating something that reflects who they are, and that kind of connection deserves care and consideration. Q: What’s your design philosophy? Chandra: Design should provoke. It should make you feel something. I love mixing colors, textures, clashing eras, and layering unexpected elements. An antique refinished wood headboard in a modern and moody master bedroom. Yes, please. I want people to walk into a space and say, “I’ve never seen anything like this.”

Q: What’s been your proudest moment so far? Chandra: Having friends and family encourage and support me while I work to create a business aligned with people, community and the planet, to create thoughtful spaces and homes that reflect the people or family’s that reside in these homes.

Q: What’s next for REBEL&CHIC? Chandra: Continuing to work with people who like our work, while exploring collaborations with local artists and local contractors, while creating blog articles to help teach people how to style sustainably. I want REBEL&CHIC to be more than a brand—I’d love to see it become a community.

Q: Final thoughts? Chandra: Don’t be afraid to rebel. Whether it’s in your home, your wardrobe, or your mindset—chic doesn’t mean conforming. It means owning your story, your style, your space.