Brooklyn-based milliner Z Malan is an artist – in the truest since of the word. I say that superlatively because her creativity is her golden egg. Call it “crown,” “brim,” or “lid,” hats are most definitely her pièce de résistance.
Malan started her career as a teen, and early on, her mother made sure she was equipped and knowledgeable. A quick study, she became well-versed in the art of designing and patternmaking at the age of 12.
Malan established the Z Malan brand in 2013 with a focus on luxury couture millinery designed to uplift the spirit. She creates each piece to perfection by hand using rich elements and attention to handcrafted detail. Sophisticated and personalized with love…. Z Malan is one to watch and add to your fashion repertoire!
To whom do you owe your inspiration for acquiring a millinery design business?
My inspiration came from my mom. She was a fashion designer who studied millinery at FIT. She began to train me to become a designer when I was eight. She taught me how to sew and make my own patterns from scratch… and by the age of 12, I could make tailor-made suits. I always loved the 1930s and 1940s era of design and was intrigued by peplum jackets and pillbox hats. I can remember my mom having the most fabulous hats and she would wear them with such care and style. She was my #1 inspiration. Fast forward to when I started my career at age 18, I felt as if an outfit was not complete without a hat, so I created hats and headpieces to coordinate with each of my outfits, as well as offer my clients additional options. So, it all goes back to my Mom. She has inspired me the most!
What has been your greatest challenge in being an emerging, independent designer?
I have two challenges. The number one challenge is – I believe we live in a world of fast fashion right now, and design is…to create one of a kind, handmade pieces. We are challenged to attract clients who can appreciate our work and wearable art but are also willing to pay for it. Millinery is a niche market and it is important to me as a milliner to educate my clients through the vehicles of photo and video, so that they understand the process of creating their pieces. They get a chance to see what goes into this. Secondly –sales! I shine when it comes to design, but sales are not my forte. As a designer, I would prefer for someone to handle sales for me. It is one of my goals, so that I may continue to design and create, which is something that I love and can do extremely well.
By virtue that millinery is such a niche market, what advice or words of wisdom would you offer to an emerging milliner that wants to be successful in the fashion business?
I would recommend first that they understand the business of fashion. I think as designers, we focus so much on creativity rather than the business, and we may not prosper as well if you don’t focus on that aspect. I would also highly recommend that an emerging designer find a mentor – someone to help them hone their skills, their craft, and navigate the design world. Lastly, I would say to them to get involved with a community of designers to share information, inspiration, and resources, and to hold each other accountable. Share their highs and lows in a safe place. A support system is extremely important and essential.
IG: @zmalannewyork
Web: www.zmalan.com
