We’ve been working with designer Maggie Burns of Marie-Margot for several years we can see why she won 303 Magazine’s Designer of the Year award this past spring! Check out her interview in preparation for our summer fashion market SPLASH!
What were your obsessions growing up?
Obsessions is a very strong word for a Libra… I don’t remember being obsessed with anything in particular. I just remember the small town I grew up in didn’t feed my artistic yearning and I felt hungry for creative stimulation.
How did fashion become the symbol for your creative expression?
Creating designs in fashion was easy for me and gave me the feeling of connection and authenticity. Growing up, I loved seeing beautiful clothes in the magazines and being able to interpret them my way. It took me to Paris long before I had the opportunity to actually visit Paris.
Do you see a stylistic connection between the things you do in your daily life that is reflected into your collections?
I see things in terms of shapes and colors, where others see things as cars and trees and buildings… I’m always looking for new patterns and textures in nature to inform my designs. I appreciate the juxtaposition of opposing shapes and textures and how it might relate to details in a gown.
Whenever I go to a movie, I’m intrigued with the costuming and sets as they relate to the story. I try to make my designs tell the story as the collection develops.
What is your research process like before starting a collection?
Sometimes a book, a movie, a piece of artwork or a soundtrack inspires me, or it can be as simple as discovering beautiful laces and fabrics and letting them tell me what the collection should say. Ultimately, my most successful collections have been when I keep my “Why?” in mind. My “Why” is that I was born to make women look and feel beautiful.
How has fashion impacted you?
Fashion creates a sense of urgency … there’s so much to do and so little time. Fashion in general moves quickly; on the one hand, one needs to get their ideas out of their head and into the market before the trends change. On the other hand, timeless elegance never goes out of style. It’s imperative to find the fine line between the two.
I have personally found the “Why?” in my life and feel a sense of profound fulfillment when my brides tell me that I have made their wedding day the best ever with their gorgeous gown!
What is your opinion on the fashion scene in Denver from a designers perspective?
Denver fashion is moving ahead at light speed. There is an abundance of very talented new designers coming onto the scene with their creative energy and enthusiasm. The more established designers are perfecting their craft and producing beautifully made, creative designs.
Be sure to check out Maggie’s IndieGoGo campaign and help her reach her goal!