Business Name:
Striped Sailor
How many years have you been in business?
4 months.
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
I wanted to start working. I am a dedicated wife and mother of two and it was time for me to get busy with a project outside my home.
Truth be told, I live a very active life, especially during the summer. On a given day I will go horseback riding, go to the gym and/or surf and then get the house ready for when the kids get home. Running around all day, I wear items that are easy to slip in-and-out of. One item that is a daily staple of mine are my espadrilles. I buy the classic style and collapse the back making them into a slipper. Naturally my espadrilles would start to fray. After weathering down too many pairs, I decided I would work on making a backless espadrille version.
With that goal in mind, I took a trip to Spain in the February of 2017 to meet with a manufacturer and began developing the prototype. The first shipment landed this past June of 2017.
What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
My designs are inspired by items I want to wear but cannot find in the marketplace. I gravitate towards pieces that are well-made, simple and timeless. I went about designing my collection with that exact framework in mind. In doing so, I hope that pieces I make will resonate with others seeking the same standard.
What is your favorite part of the job?
I love creating and designing new looks and being challenged to succeed. Working with creative individuals and resolving issues that come forth is extremely gratifying. I love being a mom - cooking and caring for my two boys, but at the same time having my own project is cathartic for me. The challenges I face at work make me realize that sometimes the little things at home that used to be a big deal, really are not that bad. When I was at home and not working every issue was magnified. When I started to work again, my mind set started to change. I began to focus more acutely on certain matters and in turn, internalize problems in a rational way, which lead to better resolutions.
What do you think gives you longevity in this big city with so many options?
Simply put, the more passionate and hardworking you are about something, the more inclined you are to keep a project going.
That, and I think it helps that the style of the brand is very easy to wear. I intend to keep making shoes, and maybe soon clothes, that are cool, classic and simple. Items that become part of your essential staples.
What is your favorite secret NYC spot?
The New York Society Library on 79th and Madison. It has a beautiful library for children, and I really enjoy spending time there with my boys.
We also regularly visit the massive rock that borders the pond by the Loeb Boathouse. The view is simply serene. Not to mention, you can drop a toy motor boat into the pond and zip around the paddle boats. The kids love it!
How do you benefit mamas?
Just doing what I'm doing. I think Moms like to hear of other mothers doing things outside the home - its inspiring. I know I do. When I hear of a mother who works and runs her household I think - good for her, more power to her!
What is the most memorable feedback a client has given you?
“I live in these!”
Pay it forward and name your top colleagues in the same field or related field?
I love when a women know what they want, have a vision and go for it. Women like Lauren Santo Domingo - she had an idea that wasn't being done to her expectations and so she took it upon herself to execute it flawlessly. Furthermore, she does so with impeccable style and grace. And you too Cand - Nothing short of perfection, smarts and beauty!
Your Mantra?
My mantra would be that the biggest risk is not seizing upon an opportunity. Though I am a mom, and I am admittedly more calculating in my thinking, I know that if you never bother to take risks you will never grow. Whether the result of taking on a challenge be success or failure, either outcome will help you grow tremendously.
As moms, the day can escape you, what is your best time-saving trick?
Instacart, Uber rush and scooters!