About the Seller
Device by Melanie Ferrara is a compilation of classic neutrals, bright hues, and stunning prints.
What is your inspiration for designs that are being featured?
Grace, confidence and femininity. As women we have so many different roles and responsibilities which we try to reconcile with our desire to express ourselves. My Spring & Summer 2012 collection is a tribute to the many incarnations of the modern woman - conscious, effortless and always, beautiful.
The color palette includes classic neutrals punctuated with bright hues of pink, yellow, orange and blue. My favourite fabrics are the prints. One is a stunning photographic manipulation of feathers and branches on a soft yellow background, with vibrant accents of pinks and oranges. The other is a striped paisley in muted blues and browns, the strong paisley motifs subdued by tonal stripes to create a sophisticated version of a normally busy print.
Education/Experience:
I completed a 4-year degree in Fashion Design at Ryerson's School of Fashion in Toronto, Canada. After graduation I worked with some of the city's most respected patternmakers, and later began doing custom freelance work. Before starting my line, I designed custom apparel for individuals and many corporate brands. I've done just about everything- from sports cheerleaders to wedding dresses, and have had my work featured in events, magazines and on tv.
What drove you to choose fashion design and specifically starting your own design?
Really, it had always been fashion design for me. I learned to sew as a child on my grandmother's old Singer. I remember having to cut myself out of some very early creations, but kept at it year after year. As a teenager people would stop me to ask where I'd bought my outfit, and I could never admit to being the designer! I suppose I finally got over my shyness. I'd always dreamed of having my own line, and after a few years of experimenting through custom work I was ready.
Describe your style:
Understated classic with a hard undertone. Unapologetically feminine. Usually in black.
Your 3 wardrobe staples:
Black jersey tank, slim leg trousers, killer statement earrings.
Favorite fashion decade:
The 1940s. Interestingly, there are many similarities in the economic and political climates then and today. I love the hourglass silhouette, with emphasis on the shoulders and hips. Compared to earlier decades clothing in the 40s was relatively simple and practical, but by exploring their own creativity to seek out versatility in their looks, women achieved gorgeous results despite wartime restrictions.
What are you most excited to wear this season?
I love to wear dresses, and am really looking forward to slipping into my current favourite- a crisp linen sleeveless number with sheer upper and tonal detailing in all black.
What do you wish people understood about being in the fashion industry?
That it does not exist in a bubble. Celebrities and glamour aside, we have a responsibility to be environmentally and ethically responsible. Consumers need to hold the fashion industry more accountable for their actions, and speak with their spending.
