An Interview with Eileen Kelly
I chose to interview Eileen Kelly (@eileenkellydesigns on Instagram) because my eyes were drawn to her designs. Her use of color and clothing within the photoshoots was so eye-catching, bright, fun, and really made her work stand out. When looking at her fashion, I felt inspired to more confidently try new things and break out of my comfort zone. Below is a snippet of the wonderful conversation I had with Eileen.
1. When do you think was your first realization that you wanted to become a fashion designer?
“I honestly knew since before I could talk. I always was into clothing and always knew what to wear. I used to play in my grandma's closet. I actually got my first sewing machine at 17 and started seriously designing and sewing at 19 during school.”
2. Did you do any schooling or training for fashion?
“Yes, I started out at the fashion school at Kent State University in Ohio. From Cleveland, Ohio I went to O’More College of Design in Franklin, Tennessee, which is now considered part of Belmont, as a Fashion Design Major. From then, I started to intern with a Nashville designer named Manuel which is where I truly learned the ins and outs of fashion design.” When I asked about her most valuable design experiences, Kelly said, “Definitely working with Manuel full time for 5 years.”
3. How would you explain your brand and its aesthetic?
“My brand is dedicated to custom design for musicians, performers, and those with bold fashion taste. I love utilizing colors, sparkly fabrics, and incorporating with humor. Overall colorful, sparkly, and fun. There are so many serious things going on with the world. I like to see people have fun in my clothes. I do everything myself, just me. I like to focus on making sure clients are happy and feel comfortable and beautiful with my clothes. Focusing on deadlines is a huge thing for me. I fabric source, design and sew by hand.”
4. What are some things people may forget when planning to become a fashion designer/ starting their own brand?
“You should be able to know your niche. Are you going to focus on leather jackets? What is your specialty? What is your target market? Construction of a garment over everything in my opinion. If you are a designer, know the ins and outs of your customers and the construction of your garment.”
5. When did you create your brand and how has the journey been?
“I technically launched in the Nashville Fashion Week of 2018. Great things come in waves. I don’t focus on my brand full-time at the moment. I have other jobs since it costs a lot of money to have your own brand. Trying to find balance is key in anything in life. It is really great... It is that one thing nobody can take away from me… it is my passion, a way to express myself and my creativity.”
6. What is some advice you think is helpful for a student who wants to develop their own brand?
“Piggybacking on what I said before, try to find your strengths during school. Really focus on quality construction. Staying true to yourself really is the biggest thing. Do whatever you can to learn and get your name out there. Intern and volunteer since it helps you network and make connections.”
7. Where or what do you get your inspiration from?
“My biggest inspiration comes from music and fashion. It always starts with music, then I basically interpret the music. Inspiration honestly comes from everywhere. I dream several of my designs. Books, poetry, street art, personal relationships, or life experience, but music is my main inspiration.”
8. Finally, where do you hope to see your brand in 5 years?
“Honestly, I really do not see much difference from now till then, however, I would enjoy dressing more celebrities and musicians.”
Even beyond her fashion, Kelly was such a delight to interview. She was incredibly sweet and patient with my questions, making sure every single one was answered. Thank you, Kelly, for sharing your work with me. Be sure to check out her incredible designs on Instagram at @eileenkellydesigns.
Strike Out,
Writer: Rosie Padilla
Editor: Alex Brooks
Nashville