Designing a garment is equal parts instinct and intention. From the initial idea or feeling behind a garment to the final tangible product, everything I see in relation to that concept is considered: how it looks, how it moves, how it feels, the fabric, the shape, how it fits, and how it’s made.

Having experience in styling and creative direction allows me to understand not only the importance of the individual pieces but also how they look within a greater context. Playing by feel and honing by discipline, a designer’s process is only complete when their creation is personalized by the next body it inhabits.

Through Valleyheart, I get to translate my ideas and sketches into tech packs and fabric choices and work with manufacturers. Having such an involved and hands-on role in each garment’s production allows me to better understand the process of transforming my ideas into garments.