For our next post, we wanted to find out what made our boss and mentor Elizabeth "tick." Here are some answers to the questions we asked when she sat down with us...
Best, The EMcKay Team
Elizabeth, how did you find yourself in the fashion industry?
From a young age, fashion seemed to work its way into my life. I guess I started with “accessories” as I became enthralled with my nanny who made potholders and oven mitts. Greatly intrigued by my questions, she taught me her hobby and I began sewing skirts for my older sister. After making a piece, I’d present it to my sister who would just kind of look at it and say, “Um. Thanks?” Although they were not works of art and most likely never left her closet, I developed my taste and designs over time and it provided me with the ultimate escape during my summer travels to a new vacation community where I knew no one. I spent my early summers in Watch Hill, RI carrying around a stuffed animal and sewing jackets for him.
Meanwhile, my grandparents, who lived in Tarboro, NC, were extremely adamant that we maintain a certain conservative attire, and therefore, we adopted two wardrobes- one sophisticated wardrobe for New York and one for the traditional Southern environment of our grandparents. As I grew older, I struggled to find my niche in academia but found my calling in fashion while attending Parsons School of Design.
Meanwhile, my grandparents, who lived in Tarboro, NC, were extremely adamant that we maintain a certain conservative attire, and therefore, we adopted two wardrobes- one sophisticated wardrobe for New York and one for the traditional Southern environment of our grandparents. As I grew older, I struggled to find my niche in academia but found my calling in fashion while attending Parsons School of Design.
What inspired you to create your own line?
I have always loved all things vintage. My friends always joke with me that vintage finds were all I wore and they constantly raided my closet. In fact, the first time my husband and I met, he asked me what kind of dress I was wearing. I dismissed him with the comment, “It’s vintage.” Struggling to find items that had the same level of refinement and timeless appeal, I decided to launch my own line. I wanted to bring a line that would be the ultimate solution for a woman at any age and could compete with the likes of the gems I had acquired over time. Having traveled a great deal, I try to incorporate ideas and themes from the different locations I had been and give them my own twist.
What pieces do you think every woman must have in her closet?
What pieces do you think every woman must have in her closet?
I think every woman must have certain classic basics in her closet, but those essential pieces should be anything other than simple. I strive to create items like the Elizabeth shirt and Scotland dress that can be mixed and matched with different accessories so you can wear them over and over again and still receive endless compliments! I love accessories and incorporate little details into my line that express my passion, but also allow you to individualize each concept with your own treasures. I love the Scotland Dress and ship it with two different belts so, that people can see how easy it is to change the look. My favorites to customize are the Elizabeth Shirts and the new Elizabeth Dress. My husband has a massive cufflink collection and I love to dress up the Elizabeth Shirt and Dress with them!
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| Elizabeth loved Elephants from an early age.... |
