I’m always excited about local fashion designer/entrepreneurs. When online boutique owner/fashion designer Elaine contacted me about Dylan, I was intrigued by the name, Dylan. I even asked her, “Is the name inspired by Beverly Hills 90210, Dylan McKay?” Well, it was not. Haha. Here’s my email interview with the woman who designs and models her own clothes!
Dylan sounds interesting. Is there a story behind your boutique’s name?
Dylan (Both of them–my son and the shop) came about when I was taking a break from my career as a teacher. Being home most of the time looking after Lil’ D gave me time to pursue my passion in fashion design. So I thought, why not start something my own?
What is your design philosophy?
I believe in standing on your own and finding your personal style that brings out the lady in you. That explains the boutique’s tagline, “Stand on your own”. My designs, as you can tell, are very feminine and exemplifies class. I adore luscious materials like silk, satin, chiffon and I am very particular about the fabrics I use. They have to feel comfortable on the skin, not just look good.
What kind of person do you imagine wearing your designs?
I am calling out to every girl out there who wants to exude the femininity and elegance in them.
Tell me your ideal outfit for a girl’s night out and a hot first date?
Girls night out – let me see. I almost always stay with dresses, skirts plus heels and letting my hair down. I dare say that as long as you are comfortable and confident, you would look good. Elena skirt plus a black ruffled chiffon top would be good. Or, one can don the Francoise if you are eating your heart out at a buffet. A hot date? The venue will be a huge deciding factor.. I believe in dressing appropriately and that it’s better to over dress than under. The Kelly for a dinner date with good conversation is going to be a memorable night.
Who inspires you? Any favourite designers?
There are many good designers out there but I draw my inspiration from vintage dresses I have seen. I love vintage designs -for their full skirts, their bold applique, their bows and laces and ribbons, some of the designers like Victor Costa never fail to make me sit up in my seat… I can just go on about them. I like the range at Anthropologie too. Their unique designs and fabrics are something I would splurge on.
What’s next for Dylan?
I am expanding in to separates in the second collection with more skirts and ruffles. I have already sourced for some unique prints and really excited to get them made into outfits. Also I hope to reach out to more plus sizes women and customise my clothes for them. So far customers have been really happy with my personalised service as I bring the dresses to them for fitting. I hope to keep that up too.
Thanks, for the romantics – do visit Dylan for great V-Day dresses!
