Join Jacqueline Conway, SFA VP, as she kicks off our SFA Fashion Leaders Series with our first guest, and SFA Board Director, Melissa Squire!
Melissa Squire is a local fashion designer with a major focus on community and sustainability. Her designs have shown on runways locally and internationally. They feature unique pieces from rockabilly dresses and baby clothes to gowns and steampunk vests adorned with recycled tires and studs. Melissa also does custom work, including unique wedding attire.
In Melissa’s interview, the topic “How to build community around your brand” was explored.
Check out the interview video and a summary of Melissa’s key points below!
MELISSA’S KEY TAKEAWAYS
Community Support
Melissa doesn’t spend any money on advertising, and instead, uses the money to support other local businesses, local organizations, and fundraisers.
She builds a following through supporting the community and encouraging others to support in any way that they can.
Sustainability
Limit your fabric waste by choosing designs with a purpose and make sure that you use the material to it’s fullest!
Track where your fabric is coming from and whether the company is certified as producing sustainable materials.
Find your Community
As Melissa says, when you’re a designer you have so many needs. You need someone to wear the clothing, model, photograph, someone to style.
Melissa works towards everyone contributing to projects. She says, “Expanding your resources can save costs and also build engagement as well as relationships with your community.”
When you’re collaborating, it needs to be equal and everyone needs to have a say so that everyone can reap the benefits.
“Don’t just pick one or two people (hairstylists, makeup artists, photographers, etc.) that you work with all of the time. Expand your circle, meet new people, and learn and share with other artists in your community.”
You can find Melissa on Instagram, or check out her website!