Spotlight on Our Graduates

What is the story behind your brand?

10 years ago, I was fresh out of LaSalle College's Fashion, Arts et Design School where I studied in the Fashion Design Program and I joined LAMARQUE, a local company that had three generations worth of leather tanning experience. Together throughout the years, we've been able to deliver cutting edge design innovations always in a superior leather quality.

How would you describe your brand?

Effortless. Edgy. Elegant.

What is your creative process?

It's a mix of what I'm really into and feeling at the moment and a lot of research. Then I look at materials and colors and it's really what I fall in love with and imagining what I could create out of it. I end up with so many different concepts and ideas, I jot them down and then narrow. Or try to narrow, my collections are huge... I need to edit better.

What has inspired your latest collection?

My latest Spring-summer 2020 collection was inspired by Italy. As I was designing it, I was also researching for our upcoming honeymoon so all I was thinking about was that beautiful place!

What are your influences?

My influences are the women in my life - both physically and digitally on Instagram.

What is your signature piece?

Our DYLAN 1980s biker jacket has become our true standout Signature Piece. It was inspired by the 1980s - it's boxy but cropped so it's sexy and it has these amazing shoulder pads! It's definitely our hottest item right now.

Who is the LAMARQUE woman?

She is strong, confident, chooses timelessness over trends and she is a little bit dangerous. She doesn't take no for an answer.

What is your fondest fashion memory?

During my late teens, I was working for a local designer for a few years. All my memories during that time were beautiful. Being in the atelier, working backstage at a fashion show, working in the boutique even going to get the coffee - basically living/breathing fashion everyday.

Interview conducted by Andrew McNally.