the beginning of a new journey for m.c.c.

it began w.a thought... an idea to maybe put me one step closer to the goal: being a designer.

i have been chosen as one of the 2010 designer in residents for the chicago fashion incubator. as i prepare for the big "move in" day, this monday, i remember the feeling i had when i presented my company to the panel of chicago fashion industry professionals:

i had arrived early. set up the m.c.c. dresses that cohesively embodied the brand m.c.c. i was nervous. unaware that i would soon be returning to this place with a space for m.c.c.

with the thrill inside of what is to come next, i am pensive on what has been. since graduating and taking the challenge of launching my own line, i have worked from the confines of my parents country home in the old hired man's room. it is here where i have prepared for every fashion show and presentation thus far. this studio has been my home these past 10 months and now it is time to keep moving forward...

it is in the incubator studio where i will take the m.c.c. brand to the next level. with courage, strength, and help from my family and friends i am excited to see what this experience will bring. i hope you follow me on this journey and i appreciate the support that has been shown to me.

stepping back in time...

spent sunday afternoon perusing an antique show where i stumbled upon a vendor who specialized in one-of-a-kind 19th century garments. i was in awe of the hand stitching, fit, embellishments, and fabrics. the work and time invested into each piece is inspiring. we worry so much about budgets and price that the quality of work slowly slips. as i stared at the delicate, perfectly spaced stitches i could only think about how little we see this in our clothing today. i know the evolution of clothing production has changed and couture pieces can still consist of intricate workmanship. but i believe that we should always look to all eras and hand sewn garments as a reminder of the beauty found in even an everyday house dress and recognize the difference when there is time, love, and care poured into it.

escape in transit

i find myself between two worlds... i rush around the city from meetings, fittings, fabric stores, fashion shows, as i am launching my line: m.c.c. it is exciting, being able to work everyday and do what i love, however there is a part of me that is always yearning for the place that allows me to come alive and open to new inspiration...

it is a drive on the interstate 90 that i have taken so many times and each time brings new emotions. toward the city i sit in anticipation to what each new opportunity will bring and how it will take my line to the next level... and the drive back... it is one of comfort and relaxation that sets my mind on a whirlwind as i am taken aback by the beauty that surrounds every aspect of my family's country home...
as a designer i need doses of my two realities... however one i believe will always be closer to my heart... the place where my mother grew up, the place where i learned simple life lessons from my grandparents, the place where my family centers upon, the place where -our- first kiss took place, the place where inspiration seeps out of the cracks of the earth and into my sketch book. the place where the story originated for my fall '10 collection...

"love is all around"

write it. say it. proclaim it. hours working with layers and layers of tulle for one woman to say "i do" reminds me that we must never let the moment pass us by... we are blessed w.ones we love in our life...

take a little time to make them a valentine.

living in the snow...

put on my skis, trudged along with my head looking straight toward the tracks... i looked up as i cleared the top of the hill and i was stunned to be graced with a world of crystals...
some say the world will end in fire,
some say in ice.
from what I've tasted of desire
i hold with those who favor fire.
but if it had to perish twice,
i think I know enough of hate
to know that for destruction ice
is also great
and would suffice.

-r. frost

drifting...

an early morning ski.. sun rising.. shadows around the drifts.. and i can't help but see fabrics taking shape inspired by the blown snow..
i see a standup collar..
i see drapes of a sleeve..

paint your canvas

our life is a blank canvas just waiting to be streaked w.color and vibrance... the outside world is full of moments and adventures waiting to captivate your heart and fill your canvas with love.