Introducing SFW Hub: Maryland
Introducing our Hub partner in Maryland, USA from Star Lashelle of Eccentric Vintage!
We chat to Star Lashelle about her journey into fashion, her brand and what she believes is important in the fashion industry.
Star Lashelle:
“Hello, my name is Star Lashelle and I’m 37 years old. I’m a wife, mother, fashion creator, stylist and designer . I have over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry. My style is a blend of eccentric, classic, vintage, & fairytale elements. I embrace color and bold patterns. Whether I’m designing for myself or up-cycling pre loved pieces I love giving garments a new chance at life.
Where are you based? I’m based in Hagerstown Maryland. I work out of my home studio.
When did your interest in fashion & sustainability begin?
My fashion sustainability journey began within the past 5 years. My first official fashion collection which was featured at DC Fashion Week the majority of my looks were up-cycled. I didn’t realize at the time what sustainable fashion was. It was just something that naturally came to me. I also learned a lot from my designer friend Lex who is also a sustainable fashion designer. I’m still learning everyday about sustainability and how I can improve my own designs and business to be more sustainable.
Eccentric Vintage is my personal fashion brand, where I offer seconds-hand styling services, fashion content creation, and exclusive collections. It’s a made to order brand that reflects my commitment to sustainability.
While some pieces are ready to ship, I focus on creating mindful collections and avoid overconsumption. I source dead stock fabrics, local materials, and currently is the transition of using natural materials.
Lastly, I design seasonal collections that celebrate the creativity and artistry of fashion and whatever doesn’t sale stays in my collection.
Sustainability: I firmly believe in the importance of sustainable fashion. By repurposing re-wearing and recycling close, we contribute to also ignite our creativity.
Mission Statement: to connect, collaborate and engage with like-minded maximalist Fashion enthusiast, that is cultivating a community that celebrates individuality in style.
Vision: Dress, as though no one is watching. Your reflection should bring joy pride and confidence is not what you wear, but how you wear it.
Goals: to grow as a fashion creator and designer, and build the wardrobe of my dreams. I am to teach Collaborate and share passion for sewing others, fostering a creative community, around Fashion.
What are your aims for taking part in SFW?
To share my love and passion for sustainability. I want people to know you can love fashion and style and still be sustainable. Wearing clothes that are secondhand or upcycling old garments and giving them a new life is a great way to be creative but also help the earth.
How do you think we can Reclaim Fashion?
We can reclaim fashion by sharing, networking, and making a difference in our own closets. Being cautious about what we buy and being sustainable in anyway we can when it comes to fashion and style.
You can view more of Star Lashelle’s work via her website here and Instagram account.