Today we’d like to introduce you to Anyse Mellott.
Hi Anyse, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Anyse and I grew up in a small town in Iowa. I didn’t have a very good family upbringing beyond my great grandparents, who ensured I learned the best of life. My great grandmother, June, taught me needle-point at a young age by having me help on quilts, doing technical embroideries, and assisting on cross stitch patterns. It helped me strive to be a 3D artist as I grew because art always spoke to me throughout my younger schooling years. As college came around, I looked at multiple locations and decided on Minnesota due to the nature of the conversation. I had always dreamed of being in a big city, as most small towners do, and started my career as a fashion designer. My first photoshoots, runway shows, and print media all happened in Minneapolis, MN. I worked tirelessly throughout various job opportunities to learn the most I could in every niche — shoes, makeup, men’s clothing, women’s clothing, etc. Nothing can limit your potential and seeing the world and meeting people helped me rise. The dreams only got bigger and with no one else to rely on, I had to be my biggest fan and supporter. After I graduated, I was part of the Black Hearts Ball held by Tim and Thom Navarro in Minneapolis. This gave me a huge network that helped to see me thrive, including Tiffany from Oxford Fashion Studio. I got to go to London Fashion Week and showcase my designs with them in 2022, which only helped grow my brand. As I continued to work diligently, establishing collections each season based on the world around me, I made plans to relocate to New York. It had been a long time coming and with the evening apparel and wedding designs I strive on, this was prime real estate. Upon arriving over three years ago, my portfolio has grown, more media has been posted, and I’ve met a whole new community of hardworking artists. It takes a village and New York is no joke! I’m now a menswear designer by day and womenswear designer by night. My hope is to combine my community connections from NYC to MPLS and showcase the brilliance behind the artists as I continue to evolve. It’s thanks to people I’ve had in my life along the way — my great grandparents, my husband, my friends, my siblings, and myself — that I’ve come so far!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s never a smooth road to the naked eye, but I think the attitude along the way helps a great deal. I have an overly optimistic outlook and like to look for the best in every person or interaction. Some of the biggest struggles vary and don’t always hit at the exact same time. Money is always the first because it takes a lot to be an entrepeneur, especially as a fashion designer — buying my materials, properly paying for my time, and breaking into the niche. Another huge struggle that I’ve seen and had to build boundaries around is not everyone will understand my art. It’s hard to process the time and cost it takes when someone isn’t watching every move, especially with fast fashion so readily available. I have learned to write out preliminary questions and general costing based on the project because most of my work is custom couture. The only other struggle I could point out is ‘writers block’ because it happens to all artists and sometimes I need to walk away to continue being inspired. Creativity comes to everyone differently and it’s important to have time to nurture yourself. I feel compelled when something strongly influences me and a vivid image paints itself in my mind.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a fashion designer of high-end apparel, such as wedding gowns, red carpet looks, and luxurious gala garments. When I was in Minneapolis, I was probably best known for my fantasy looks because of the runway shows I participated in. In New York, I’m best known for creating huge dresses with tons of layers that would work well in a Vogue shoot. It’s all about making a statement! The thing I’m most proud of is doing what I said I would from the time I was small, regardless of circumstances — becoming a fashion designer, making collections I love, and moving to New York. If I had to choose a favorite collection I’ve done, it would have to be Starry Eyed because of the variety of fabrics and intense research I did on different stars. The thing that sets me apart from others in fashion is that there is no limitation when I want to create and quality comes from patience!
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Be your biggest fan and never let that unsettle you. Growth requires risk and it’s important you listen to your instincts. You aren’t alone and it’s okay to ask for help. I think I was always stubborn about asking for help because so much of what I had to learn growing up came from myself. The people you surround yourself with will influence you and I was fortunate that later in life, my friends grew to be my family and helped me shine! My only other callout is to set boundaries and listen. Somethings need to be written off for your mental health and other things can only be heard when we aren’t trying to talk.
Pricing:
- Full Custom Wedding Gowns or Special Events ($5,000+)
- Pre-Set Cut & Sew ($200+)
- Alterations ($10+)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/AnyseFashion
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anysefashion/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnyseFashion/
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/anysefashion/
- Twitter: https://x.com/AnyseFashion
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AnyseFashion
