Tell us about your fashion journey.
I grew up in LA, graduated with a degree in Economics from Cornell University, and moved to NYC where I started my career in the fashion industry at Macy’s as a Product Assistant in New York. Over the last 20 years, I have a proven track record of successfully building, launching, and operating multi-million-dollar fashion brands and products from the ground up for retailers including Amazon and Macy’s.
I was frustrated by the damage done to the environment by the fashion industry and knew that there was a better way. Proto101 started with the idea to perfect the ultimate wardrobe staple – the basic tee. The perfect fabric, fit(s), and performance that is mindfully crafted from high quality, sustainable materials with minimal environmental impact. And most importantly, clothes that make you feel great when you’re wearing it. The focus from the very beginning was to build sustainable practices into the product and business from design to production. Better basics for a better planet.
What is Proto101’s mission?
Proto101’s mission is to create apparel with mindfully engineered fabrics and designs. We strive to offer sustainable alternatives to disposable, “fast” fashion by sourcing eco-friendly fabrics, making durable garments in timeless silhouettes, supporting an ethical supply-chain, and amplifying minority voices. Proto101 also plants one tree for every garment sold. The brand offers built-to-last basics like tees, sweats, dresses in timeless silhouettes, constructed for comfort and function. All garments are made with high-quality, non-toxic materials.
What are you currently working on?
The designs are constantly being evaluated and tweaked - part of the process is to continually improve our products through customer feedback, market research, and analytics. I approach product development with a blend of data, experience, and ensuring the customer is at the center of all my decisions so we are constantly listening to what they need whether that is about fit, fabric, color, and style.
Proto101 will be launching new styles in our French Terry collection this year in time for the Holiday season. I’m also excited to share we are working on a new category – sustainable denim. Denim is the next category to complete the essential wardrobe and our customers have been asking us for staple since the brand launched. Denim is currently still in development and expected to launch sometime in late 2025 so stay tuned!
Stop by the Bellevue Square location or learn more at proto101official.com or on Instagram and Facebook @proto101official
"We strive to offer sustainable alternatives to disposable, “fast” fashion by sourcing eco-friendly fabrics, making durable garments in timeless silhouettes, supporting an ethical supply-chain, and amplifying minority voices.”