©JesicaMilton Spring 2010 Sweetheart Dress
Jesica Milton fashion gives the world ladylike design, balancing relaxed west coast style with city sophistication.
Being able to call San Francisco her hometown and Seattle her home base Jesica Milton has the best of both worlds from inspiration to experience.
Striking a perfect balance between comfort and glamor each garment is designed to be versatile enough to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Here we go behind the clothes to ask Jesica Milton what/who is behind the JESICA MILTON brand:
©JesicaMilton Fall 09 Blazer, Tunic & Cigarette Pant
Why fashion?:
Growing up I always knew that I wanted to do something artistic. I've dabbled in everything from make up, painting to pottery but fashion is the one that stuck with me. I went to school for clothing design and have been working ever since!
Who do you admire in the fashion world?:
I admire the style of several fashion bloggers like Jane from Sea of Shoes and Susie Bubble. I love to see the unique ways that real women are styling themselves and experimenting with everyday fashion.
What inspired your fall 09 and spring 2010 collections?:
My fall 2009 collection was inspired by the shape of a ruffle. I used that shape as a starting point and applied it abstractly in different forms to each garment. The spring 2010 collection was based around the idea of updating staples like shirt dresses and khaki trousers with subtle details like metallic fabrics, lace inserts, and an abstract print.
Can you describe your research process?:
Generally I have a theme or idea in mind to build the collection around. Sometimes it is a piece I've already designed, a certain detail, or possibly a storyline. From there I put together a storyboard of images, sketches, and fabric swatches which I refer back to while designing. Every piece will reference back to the storyboard in order for a cohesive collection.
Describe a day in your working life?:
It varies wildly which is part of what I love about this career. On a any given day I might be drafting patterns, sewing, updating my website, working on PR and sales... or when I am very lucky researching and designing.
How has the recession affected your work?:
The recession has brought me closer to my customers. Right now boutiques are on a tight budget and not picking up many new lines, so I am really focusing on reaching out directly to my customers. I've been doing trunk shows and private shopping events, it's great getting to know my clients and getting their personal feedback on the collections.
What advice would you give fashion students currently studying or wanting to enter the design world?:
Work your butt off and remain humble!
If you were not working as a designer what would you currently be doing?:
If I weren't a clothing designer I would probably want to stay within a design oriented career. I love working on photo shoots so wardrobe styling has always captured my interest. I think I would also really love interior decorating.
What do you wear when you work?:
Generally when I am working in my studio it's all about comfort. I work in an old loft space and it's pretty chilly in there so usually jeans, a sweater, and boots. However when I'm doing any sort of event I always wear at least one of my own pieces.
What in your eyes would you say are the similarities and differences between San Francisco and Seattle fashion?:
I would say comfort is a big similarity because of the climate. Both cities have lots of hills and grey weather so I see a lot of boots, cozy sweaters, and scarves in both San Francisco and Seattle. I think the big difference is that San Francisco knows when to get a little dressier... Seattle tends to keep the fleece on for dinner and drinks.
What are your favorite San Francisco place to -
Shop?:
I really love the Loehmann's in San Francisco, I always pick up one or two amazing finds there. I also love some of SF's great boutiques like CandyStore Collective and Acrimony.
Visit for inspiration?:
The de Young Museum. A while back I went to the Nan Kempner exhibit with my grandma and it was amazing to see the couture pieces up close. Their textile section is also really fascinating.
Eat at?:
This is a little generic but on a nice day I love to do lunch on the patio of the Cheesecake Factory, mostly for the view.
A down to earth San Francisco girl who is fast becoming a big name in the fashion industry.
Jesica Milton online stockists: Aspiring Couture and Stanton James.
Comments
Both the fall and spring collections are so great, I could really match any piece with my existing clothes. Love the SF spots highlighted - thanks!
She is amazing. Awesome interview!
Great Q&A, love knowing what inspires people and how they spend their time.
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