Megan Ilene is the CEO and designer for her very own self-titled brand. I had a chance to try out two of her recent designs and loved them both so much. The material she creates with is soft but not too soft as to where it would get too warm wearing them and each piece is so incredibly versatile and easy for every day wear or a dressed up style.
I got to try out a dress and a top (dress pictured below) and I’ve been wearing them for everything from walks around NYC to lounging in a WFH state. They’re perfect all-weather pieces and are incredibly size inclusive.
I had a chance to talk with Megan and get some information about her beliefs, business and busy lifestyle as a boss:
What inspires you?
So many things! Visually: architecture, nature, history, innovation and art. Conceptually: personal issues I've found with fashion, waste, fit and clothing needs. I then compound that with issues and needs I hear from customers and friends. I believe in a lot of feedback and talking through fit and feel.
What’s your sign and how do you think that plays a part in your life?
I'm a double Taurus (rising Leo) but an Aries cusp and it plays out in both obvious and surprising ways! Comfort, texture and color are so important in my designs but innovation and finding newer/better ways to do a 2000+ craft (making fabric and clothing) are always a key role. Constantly reminding myself that money is not directly tied to success would be the dark side I deal with.
What is the main purpose of your account/brand?
I often refer to clothing as Necessary Art.
Modern society has dictated we have to cover our bodies in public and clothing is the most accessible form of art we have in society. With that thought, why shouldn't each piece be made with intention and a strong focus on quality and beauty?
What is something you love deeply about yourself?
I'm very adaptive and welcome change. That can be a tough pill to swallow for some but an important skill to have as an independent artist. Pivot!
What makes you feel confident?
Working through a problem or figuring out a new way to make something. The light bulb moment really lights up my entire being. Find something you love and hone it. Make it important to you.
What have you had to overcome that’s made you who you are?
I've been very fortunate and try my darndest to not forget that. But to answer your question, I've found my voice through creating garments. Validation is nice, but creating a piece from start to finish and having a person put it on, and feel their most confident self has given me such a stable base from which to speak. So overcome? Self doubt.
Who are your biggest inspirations?
Fiber Artists: Sheila Hicks, Annie Albers and Joan Potter, Fashion Designers: Ann Demueulameester, Issey Miyake, Holly Mcquillan, Julian Roberts...many more.
What’s your beauty/fashion go-to?
A cute pair of shoes can take any outfit to the next level! I so often hold back when purchasing clothing because mentally, I'll say 'I can make that.' But my weakness (probably because I can't make them) is shoes (and jewelry!).
What would you say is the best thing about you?
I like to think that I listen well. I've come to learn that conversation is often the other person waiting to speak, rather than listening to what you're saying.
What does equality mean to you?
This question carries a lot more weight than when you first sent it to me. During this time I've made it a point to be silent and listen as others speak. My voice isn't important right now. But equality is what we are striving for. What every moral society should aspire too. It's the opposite of discrimination and its absence means someone has less for reasons outside of their control.
What is your mission statement/what does your brand name mean?
By creating items that can be worn a myriad of ways and utilizing materials that are ultimately safe for Earth's reclamation we aim to change the thought process one utilizes with purchasing goods.
It is our hope that by producing and consuming mindfully, we can focus on craftsmanship, reduce waste, and create truly impeccable clothing for the discerning customer.
Brand name is easy, it's me!