PFW Emerging Designer: Nelli Millard

Posted by Admin on October 1, 2010 in Designers

Describe your line.  Who is your ideal customer?

I’m bringing my line named “From Russia With Fashion” to Portland Fashion Week. It is a well supported combination of East and West Fashion styles. My ideal customers are women from 20 to 50 years old, who recognize and appreciate well constructed and designed cloth.

How long have you been designing apparel?

I grew up in the fashion and sewing atmosphere, because my Mom was working in the sewing studio, and later I graduated from college (Stavropol Tech. College – Russia), with a degree in designing and technology of custom clothing (1990). Since then I gained experience working with customers and created a few lines of clothing for stores in Russia. Here in the U.S., I mostly worked with my clients, and now this is the first time I’m showcasing my design publicly.

What motivated you to choose a career in fashion?

Since my Mom was a professional in sewing industry, I was ”spoiled” and wore very nice fitted garments. There was no doubt in my mind I would take the same path in my life. Back then, I thought I’d be working as a custom clothing professional, but when I came to US in 2002, I spent more and more time doing some art (now it’s my hobby), and I decided to combine my experience with my hobby.

What is your inspiration for your line?

This collection is inspired by classic Russian literature “Master & Margarita” by Bulgakov. It is both an old world sophisticated line and a modern line at the same time. My line represents the opportunity for women to express both their grace and strength in a defined way.

East meets West with ”From Russia With Fashion”.

Emerging designer, Madison Buyer, Nelli Millard, Portland Fashion Week