In Conversation with Isabella Quillin

Aug 29

Tell us about your background:
I graduated from the University of Cincinnati's Design, Art, and Architecture Program (DAAP) with a bachelors of science in design. Throughout university, I participated in DAAP's Co-Op program, alternating semesters of study with semesters of internship experience, so that by the time I graduated I had about two years of experience working in fashion through five different internship experiences. These experiences included: Mara Hoffman, Shaina Mote, Free People, Chromat, and Textile Haus.

After graduating, I worked for Free People on their Jackets and Outerwear team where I supported seasonal development with designers, buyers, and the production team through designing, creating tech packs, and developing trim, artwork, and wash packages. After working for Free People, I wanted to try something new, so I decided to dive into the print industry and worked for Nikki Martinkovic Design Studio as an Assistant Designer. My role there was threefold: I worked as a print designer for the print studio, and also worked as a technical designer and production manager for an in house start up brand of one-of-a-kind dresses in house made prints.

Since 2019, I have been a freelance technical designer for contemporary womenswear brand called Shaina Mote based out of LA. For Shaina, I create technical flats and line plans.

As a designer in the early years of their career, I have realized my goals and priorities. I see myself building a career in the sustainable/responsible fashion space through working in production and design. I gravitate towards contemporary and luxury brands that make garments that are beautiful as a whole: from the way they're made, who is making them, to the design.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

I've learned that time is a huge asset to those who are in successful positions in their industry. So be patient with yourself, and as long as you are consistently trying to learn as much as you can, and you are a sponge in your role, you will start to build that library of knowledge that so many managers or business owners utilize in their success.

Best career advice you've ever received?

I wish that I knew how important it is to listen to your gut and choose things that scare you a bit, because those are always the experiences that help you grow.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Leadership qualities that are important to me include: being an active listener, excellent communicator, thoughtful and considerate of your teammates lives, and lastly being organized.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?

Definitely navigating COVID. Since I graduated in the peak of COVID, I have jumped into work environments that are still trying to figure out how to be a remote company. Having not worked full-time for brands before COVID, it was hard to understand the context behind how things were done in office compared to virtually. It's been a really interesting time to work in entry level positions that are typically more mentor-based roles, that have had to transfer that mentorship into virtual tools.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

A linen blazer! An amazing way to dress up a simple outfit. Mine is vintage, $10 from a flea in Chinatown, and fits perfectly.

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bella-quillin

Website: www.belladonnaquillin.com

Instagram: @bellaquillin