What inspired you to start SLS The Brand and become a fashion designer, and how did that evolve into the brand we see today?
My passion for handmade design began the moment I first picked up a needle and thread. At 11, when I first learned how to sew, it was like a domino. My grandmother bought me my first sewing machine, and I’ve been creating ever since. I kept my sketches in a binder labeled “SLS”—my initials—which I still use for my brand today. Creating a garment or jewelry piece by hand is a deeply meaningful process. In a world where fashion is often mass-produced, I’m proud to focus on craftsmanship and couture techniques. Preserving that level of artistry through thoughtful production is at the heart of my brand.
What challenges have you faced, and how have those shaped your business today?
I currently manage every aspect of my business on my own—from marketing and design to producing each piece by hand. Running everything myself has been a challenge, but it’s taught me resilience and the importance of building something from the ground up. I know the hard work I’m putting in today is laying the foundation for the future I envision.
Are there any mentors who have inspired SLS The Brand?
I was very fortunate to be taught by inspiring women in high school who encouraged me to pursue this dream. I also had the opportunity to intern for local designer Jennifer Butler in Fairfield. Being exposed to runway shows and a working design studio was fascinating and incredibly inspiring, and her dedication to handcrafted garments deeply resonates with me.
When someone wears one of your pieces, what feeling do you hope they take away?
My goal is for the person wearing one of my pieces to feel completely confident. That’s the true magic of custom-made, tailored design. As my motto says, “Step into the elegance of SLS handmade pieces.” That sense of individuality and confidence is what SLS is all about.