The Art of Craftsmanship
My path to designing a top of the line brand has been very straight forward, at least that’s what I often lead people to believe. I won’t lie and tell you I haven’t been headed down this path since I was ten years old, but my direction hasn’t always been clear.
After high school my business partner, AKA my mother, and I spent three years owning and operating an online clothing boutique in the fast fashion industry. This side of fashion was a struggle to work in, for one because everyone wants in on it, and two because it was so discouraging. So many times my mother and I would receive the items we purchased to sell, and be very frustrated by the state they came in. From the cheap materials that smelt of chemicals, to the poor craftsmanship we were constantly disappointed. I attribute a lot of why our business struggled to that, we didn’t believe in the product we were trying to sell so the effort wasn’t always there. We worked hard but you can always tell when someone’s heart isn’t in what they are selling.
Nearly a year ago, we reached a tipping point where we couldn't bear it any longer. The only way we were going to feel confident about what we were selling is if we dove into the creative realm ourselves. I won't deny that the notion of having my own designs sold has always been a cherished dream of mine, but this aspiration grew exponentially after being immersed in a sea of subpar craftsmanship for three years.
Upon starting this new venture our goal and mission for Isla & Saige quickly became, to fashion garments from the finest materials, meticulously crafted to withstand the test of time, while boasting styles that transcend fleeting trends. Our brand's essence resides in the creation of exquisite pieces that grace the women who wear them and can be cherished for generations to come. Thus, our tagline was born: "Crafting unforgettable legacies."
Legacy, to me, evokes the image of heirloom pieces passed down through generations. It's the idea of holding onto something special, like an engagement ring passed down from grandmother to granddaughter. The essence of an heirloom lies in the meticulous artistry and unwavering commitment to excellence, qualities epitomized by iconic brands such as Hermès - an inspiration we hold in high esteem. A brand that captivates our admiration and fuels our ambition.
As we embarked on our journey to create heirloom pieces, we pondered the question: What makes an heirloom? The answer lies in the meticulous attention to detail, starting with the choice of fabric. A legacy piece must not only be aesthetically pleasing but also convey quality through touch. Manufacturing with the perfect fabric became the cornerstone of our design philosophy.
The partnership with a manufacturing team local to LA became a testament to our commitment to quality and ethical practices. Hands-on involvement, meticulous sampling, and an extra round of scrutiny ensured that our pieces will not only look beautiful but also fit like a glove. We adjusted our designs, changed fabrics for higher quality, and ensured that each garment surpassed our stringent standards.
The significance of color in a product cannot be overstated. Our dedication to quality led our team to carefully select shades, sending our creations to the dye house for multiple checks until the perfect hue was achieved. Choosing the right dyeing process, allowed us to match the color precisely and guarantee its longevity.
Quality craftsmanship necessitates a thoughtful approach to care instructions. While luxury often comes with special care requirements, we believe that natural fiber fabrics like linen and cotton should be fuss-free. Pre-washing, especially for linen, not only factors in shrinkage but also enhances the luxurious feel over time.
Sustainability is not just a buzzword for us; it's ingrained in our brand ethos. Opting for natural fiber fabrics and producing in small batches aligns with our commitment to minimizing waste and ensuring impeccable quality control. Each piece we produce carries not just the weight of fashion but the responsibility of crafting a sustainable and enduring legacy.
Beyond the threads and stitches lies a commitment—to quality, to sustainability, and to the belief that each piece carries not just a story, but the promise of a timeless connection. We extend our gratitude for allowing us to share this chapter with you, and we look forward to weaving more tales of craftsmanship and elegance as we continue to craft unforgettable legacies, one piece at a time.
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