R: When did LAYERS first open for business officially?
Michelle: April 2005
R: What motivated you to start the company?
Michelle: Originally, Layers was started to create pieces that could provide women with additional coverage and be layered underneath other articles of clothing. From there, it quickly evolved into a label which offers a much wider variety as I began designing dresses, swimwear, and other seasonal apparel. I wanted to bring women fashionable, affordable options that I wasn't finding in the stores.
R: What inspires you as a designer?
Michelle: I love watching old movies and sometimes feel like I was born in the wrong era! An actress's styling often sparks my interest and then I build my own interpretation of a look from there. I am inspired by fashion throughout the decades, from the classic styling of the 40's and 50's, to the bohemian style of the 60's and 70's.
R: Does modesty/religion influence your designs?
Michelle: Modest styling is the most timeless and trend-proof. As a conservative designer, it can be discouraging that the word "modesty" often has a negative connotation as it relates to fashion. I think a modestly dressed woman gives off an aura of allure and confidence. She has style and self-assuredness, while having nothing to prove.
R: Tell us about your family.
Michelle: I have the most patient, wonderful husband and three active, beautiful daughters. We love to hang out together, travel, watch movies and bake. My daughters and I all have a sweet tooth and probably indulge in our two major weaknesses - cookie dough or bubblegum ice cream - a little more than we should!
R: Who are some of your favorite designers of all time?
Michelle: I love the timeless look of Chanel, the clean, yet edgy looks of Marc Jacobs and the femininity of Narcisco Rodriguez.
R: What was your primary objective of starting Layers Clothing?
Michelle: I find some of the styles out there today to be a little unrealistic. It has always been my goal to take current fashion and modify it so that real women can wear it and feel great about themselves and look amazing.
R: What advice would you give to other women/moms interested in starting their own business?
Michelle: Be organized! Don't feel inadequate or get discouraged by what you don't know. Just utilize the knowledge, skill and talents you do have and be willing to learn every step of the way.
R: What is it like being a mom and a business owner?
Michelle: It can be a little crazy at times, but my family definitely comes first. I believe I am only as good as the individuals I surround myself with. I have an amazing team at Layers that supports me in both my professional and personal life.
R: What is your favorite and least favorite fashion trend of all time?
Michelle: Favorite 1 - Leggings. Their versatility is endless! I love how adding that layer can take a dress from spring/summer to fall/winter. AND they look great with any type of shoe - heels, flats, pumps, flip flops, boots, sandals, etc!
Favorite 2 - Farrah Fawcett hair. If I could rock her 70's hairstyle in 2009 and get away with it, believe me, I would be doing it!
Least favorite - I gotta tell ya.....I have nightmares about the M.C. Hammer pants I wore in the 80's.....twenty years later they still haunt me!
Posts
I love how Michelle is rockin' the Bianca! I love that one and love wearing it more!
ReplyDeleteThat shirt looks way better on her than it does on the model. It makes me want to buy it while the picture on the website does not. I think some more pictures of your clothes on "real women" and not just posing tiny models would perhaps inspire more people to want to buy them!
ReplyDeleteOh if only I had a couple 100 to spend on Layers Clothing I would do it in a heart beat. I love the styles. Thanks for interviewing Michelle. It makes me love it even more and leaves me wanting to help her get even bigger...Thank you so much! You're amazing!
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