Jaclyn Marshall, designer and founder of Jaclyn M. Image supplied.
Jaclyn Marshall is the designer and founder of womenswear label Jaclyn M which she launched in 2015. The label is proudly made in Nelson by a dedicated team and Jaclyn is passionate about making garments with care in small runs so she isn’t over-producing. Her charming seasonal collections have a focus on layering and Jaclyn M is stocked throughout the South Island as well as at Jean & Pete in Whakatane in the North Island.
We caught up with Jaclyn to find out more about her brand, what inspires her and what you would never catch her wearing!
Tell us about your latest collection?
My latest collection, She walks in beauty, is all about softness and femininity. I didn’t want to use heavy dark Winter tones for this season. I wanted a season that was a contrast to the heavy colors usually present.
I love mixing light flowing fabrics with heavy woollens so wanted to add small elements of that to the season as well.
What made you become a designer?
I can’t remember when I decided to be a designer. Its something I’ve always known I would do. I have pretty early memories of making dolls clothes out of scraps from mum’s sewing. Nan was always making Victorian dolls clothes so being a maker of some description has always been in the family.
What inspires you?
Everything and anything. Nature, history, friends, fabrics, colour, the list goes on and on. I let the ideas flow and let my intuition tell me which direction the designs will take.
Looks from Jaclyn M’s She walks in beauty collection.
Describe your personal style and how it influences your designs?
My personal style is quite eclectic, it is always centred around comfort with a feminine edge. I like to be able to move freely in my garments when working and that definitely carries through in my designs.
What is your all-time favourite purchase?
A vintage Mooneys full length fur coat. I don’t ever wear it, its just one of those pieces to have and treasure. A piece of NZ fashion history.
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
There are two pieces I think should be invested in. A decent coat in a classic shape and a pair of comfy boots.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
If you like it, you’re comfortable in it and you feel great, then wear it. Fashion should be fun, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Looks from Jaclyn M’s She walks in beauty collection.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Seeing happy customers and hearing how good they feel wearing Jaclyn M garments.
What can’t you live without?
Silence and the outdoors, I do my best creating when I have the ability to access quiet spaces. Being able to get out in nature helps to refocus and reset the mind.
Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…
Leggings as pants!
Images supplied.