I grew up in Albuquerque, NM, surrounded by art and the big sky. I was always making things with my hands or playing outside with my sister. Even though my daily uniform was jeans and a tee, I loved going through my mother’s closet. I was intrigued by how things were made and all the small details. Dressing up in my mom’s clothes, even if too big for me, was a fun pastime. My mother loves clothes. and used them to express her creativity. I think she passed down her love of clothes to me. I still favor well fitting jeans and a white tee but I do enjoy a special outfit for getting dolled up.
My career in apparel started about 26 years ago in New York City. I was young, had little-to-no fashion training but the artistic lens from my family, the love of clothes, and a Biology BA. I cut my teeth in the denim industry at key denim brands and learned from the best. I was lucky to have a mentor and friend who taught me best practices in the business and in how to treat people in life. My time in the apparel industry taught me the art of clothing and that clothes can make people feel strong, beautiful, powerful, safe.
I tried my hand a three startups. Starting and running these businesses was like a masters degree in creative direction, styling, project management, budget management, vendor relations, trade shows, collaboration, and pushing my designs to be the best they could be. These businesses were not critical successes, but pushed me to my limits and I learned about myself and the industry.
Apparel is a compromise: of the creative dream, what is able to be created and the price to create it. I love the dream, but also understand the rest.
What I care about:
Beautifully designed clothing (the art form)
Delivering a seasonal line that takes people on a journey
Classics made modern for clothing that lasts
Fit, Fit, Fit
Versatility not Trend
Environmental impact and sustainability
Helping brands set up properly for success
Looking at business holistically for better decision making
I am available for full-time work, consulting & contract apparel design work.
Please use the ‘Get in touch’ link on the homepage to email me.
I’m looking forward to hearing from you.