They do indeed look similar. 2D art of Weiss more so.I can't speak much for Weiss's personality, but her design itself reminded me of Freudia Neuwahl from Rosenkreuzstilette.
[edited for space]
I found your words a little unexpected, because of the comparisons I drew initially too. (Karis showed me a few trailers/images among other things. =w=; So I'm not totally ignorant about RWBY.)
It is pronounced "ruby" and is named so after the main castRWBY. Four letters that have always confused me...
What path to use...hmm...
Do I sign off or do I stay online?
Get out. T___TWhat path to use...hmm...
*Morphs into a Male Meowstick and jumps on xita lap* *starts purring on her* XD