MIRANDA BENNETT STUDIO
YOU GUYS ALL KNOW MY LOVE of independent designers who create made-to-order, minimalist, LASTING fashion, and Austin-based MIranda Bennett's work is no exception. She sent me some beauties this summer that would work before, during, and after pregnancy-- and they really, really do! I want to own more pieces from her; if you don't already know and love her work, check it out here.
In these photos I'm wearing the Everyday top in double gauze and the Tribute dress in heartwood, both bump-friendly.
Oxfords are from Nisolo
Boots from Coclico
Read on for an interview with the designer!
1. How did you get your start in design? Has this always been what you've wanted to do?
I had a very hands on childhood and, embarrassingly, I began making clothing for my dolls at a very young age, as well as fixating on what clothing I was wearing, making costume changes throughout the day to fit the mood and occasion. I didn't necessarily know that it was something I wanted to do, it was just always a feature of my life. I always thought that I would go in to education as an adult.
2. What are your sources of inspiration?
I always start with the form, and the hand of the fabric. I rarely sketch. I typically begin with a flash of something, a silhouette, a detail, a fabrication, and manipulate it on the figure until it feels right. I'll often wear in-progress samples for weeks so I can experience how they wear, if there are any issues with fit, comfort, or ease of transition. That is part of why having the production process in-house is so important to me, too. I like the dialogue with my designs to remain open and fluid. That is also where the Edition format comes from, I love the idea of keeping the conversation open with our existing styles so that they can evolve and transform over time with each release, through color, fabrication and proportion.
3. What is the mission statement for Miranda Bennett Studio?
Creating locally manufactured, seasonless apparel executed in premium, naturally dyed fabrics. There is an emphasis in the collection on comfort, ease, wearablility, and minimal designs that exude thoughtful simplicity. Convertible design features, like adjustable waists and elements that can be moved or removed, also lend to the concept that this is apparel that can journey with a woman through all of the facets of her day and life.
4. Describe a day off.
I am really trying to get better at having true days off, but as a small business owner it is hard; emails are always coming in, deadlines are always creeping up, and ideas are always springing up. That being said, my dream day off involves time with my boyfriend, our dog William, and our cats Smokey & The Bandit. I love walking around Austin, whether it's in our neighborhood or a full fledged hike, visiting the Austin Public Library's secondhand bookstore, drinking iced tea like it's water, thrift shopping, swimming and trying new food.
5. Summer essentials?
Hydration, whether it's infused water, iced herbal teas, or one of the many facial spritz that I keep with me (rose water, Dr.J's summer Spray, or Poppy & Someday's ayurvedic mists. Hats & sunnies. Light silk wraps that double (or triple) as poolside blankets and sarongs
6. What's next for your line?
Offering more separates, including our first skirt and pant. Exploring all of the color possibilities that Logwood has to offer, from taupe to lavender to deep purple to black. Larger headquarters that include more workspace for dye and manufacturing with our expanding team. More collaborations with the rich creative community that we live in, both through our workshop program and through product offerings.
