StyleNest caught up with founder of cult New York label Milly, Michelle Smith.
Mum, business women, fashion designer and all-round busy New Yorker, Michelle Smith took five minutes out of her hectic schedule to talk to StyleNest. We got the goss from Milly’s founder and designer on everything from what inspires her work to what she does on her days off.
Tell us Michelle, what was it that ignited your love of fashion?
I was inspired by my mom and seeing photos of her in the 1960’s wearing Gogo boots, with bobbed hair and mod style clothing. I think most women are inspired by their moms.
What is the inspiration behind Milly the brand?
My inspiration changes, I want to design for all women and different ages and body shapes. I want women to feel smart, sexy, confident and glamorous in Milly. It’s also important to have simple, classic pieces that can be wardrobe staples as well.
What are your favourite picks from the Milly AW12 collection?
I love the feather trim skirt and the body-con dresses. Also the lace print dresses are great for party season
You live in New York. How does the city inspire your work?
Yes, it is such an inspiring city; I am inspired by the energy in New York alone. Designs have to work from day to night as many New Yorkers do. There is also an interesting tension between uptown and downtown – leading to a mix of styles and fashion that you can see throughout the collection.
What other fashion designers do you admire?
I admire Karl Lagerfeld for his creativity hard work ethic, as well as Phoebe Philo as she does it all whilst being a mum too.
What is the one item of clothing you could not live without?
I love the sweater I’m wearing today – it’s a pretty knit with a leather trim that goes with absolutely everything from skirts to skinny jeans.
Which celebrity would you love to dress?
I like to dress all different types of women and body types. Over the years we have dressed Meryl Streep, Beyoncé, Thandie Newton and recently Jennifer Lopez, which goes to show that Milly suits all ages and body types. I also wold like to dress Kate Middleton, she is has a lovely classic style.
The Christmas party season is approaching; can you give our readers some tips on how to go from boardroom to bar quickly and easily?
A change of shoe can really change an outfit from day to night. Rather than having a large day bag, swap this for a cute and colourful tote to dress up your outfit. Also sparkly jewellery is a must. I always keep a cocktail coat in my office in case I need to go to an evening event at the last minute.
How do you balance motherhood with a successful career?
I bring my kids with me. There are perks of owning my own business, in that I can also be flexible with my schedule and bring the children with me.
When you get time off, what do you enjoy doing?
I love spinning – it’s such a great workout, but I also like going to museums and art galleries. I live near the New York Museum of Modern Art, so I bring my children there and we spend time there. I spend a lot of time outdoors in Central Park with my family too, and I love having brunch in Central Park.
Milly is fast becoming a global empire. What can we expect to see next from you and the brand in the future?
Well we have opened our flagship store on Fifth Avenue, which has been extremely successful. We are now also shipping to the UK from www.millyny.com, so all UK Milly fans can enjoy Milly directly to their door. We plan to open four stores in the Middle East and there may be a shoe collection in the future also.