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June 11, 2010 in Designers - Leave a reply

MEET MADISON BUYER DESIGNER: Second Star Designs

What inspired you to jump into fashion?

I come from a long line of fashion designers in one form or another reaching back to my great grandfather who was a milliner in Ireland before coming to America.  Personally, I got my start as a costume designer for stage performers when I was just out of high school.  Over the course of the last 22 years, this passion has evolved into designing and manufacturing clothing for children.  Currently, in conjunction with my children’s clothing business, I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising.  The end result will be a strong background to ensure the success of my entrepreneurial venture.

What makes collection different then other collections ?

My clothing designs are timeless and classic.  They are designed to be handed down from one child to the next while retaining their initial appeal, yet as boutique clothing, I strive to maintain affordability.  As a mother myself, I understand the balance parents must find when clothing their children in the latest fashions; boutique clothing should not have to carry boutique prices.

As a designer, what are your most difficult challenges?

My most difficult challenge is in finding the time to create all of the ideas that are in my imagination.  I have color boards filled with fabrics, trims, and design ideas; tons of ideas that are simply begging to be turned into dresses and coats and other marvelous things.

As a designer, what do you find most rewarding?

Repeat customers are what is most rewarding.  Having customers return year after year to purchase products from my trunk shows because they love the quality, the colors, and the craftsmanship is a truly joyous feeling that cannot be duplicated.

Who is your primary target audience?

My primary target audience are the parents and grandparents of little girls ranging in age from newborn to approximately age 8.  It is during this time period that parents wield the power in choosing what their children wear.  That said, my designs, quality, and prices appeal to the purchasers while the colors and fabric designs appeal to the child.

What’s in store for your customers in the near future?

Currently, I have two online store locations in addition to my weekly trunk shows.  Within the next 12 months, I anticipate opening a bricks and mortar location in the Portland-Vancouver Metro area.