Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Lecher.
Hi Nicole, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey began at seven when my family decided to pick up everything and move from Washington DC to Barbados. At the time, I was scared of unfamiliarity and leaving the comfort of my home and friends behind. I had no idea that the experiences I would have from that time onward would permanently alter the trajectory of my life. Barbados lasted for three years and then I moved to Kenya, followed by Atlanta and New York City. The lives and stories of people from around the globe humble me and remind me of just how truly blessed I am.
Having those experiences keeps me searching for adventure in life. What new things are out there to see, explore and discover! It’s exciting to learn from people with different cultural backgrounds, to understand their ways of living and how that can impact my own. I believe that at the core of anything I do or wherever I go, relationships and investing in other people are what really matter.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. The beginning was definitely difficult, as leaving a place of comfort and familiarity often can be. Being the new girl in school and forming new friendships wasn’t easy, but it was always worthwhile. Sometimes I lacked a sense of homely belonging that most people I was surrounded with had. No place was ever permanent, I felt like I lived in a constant state of floating between spaces and people.
What I did learn was that home is sometimes a transitory existence. It’s with the people we love during that time and space. It’s with family and friends, right here, right now. I’ve since become very comfortable with what I once feared. Change and relativity no longer faze me, it now furthers me to find my grounding on what doesn’t move. For some, maybe that’s a trusted grandparent, mother, father, or friend, but for me, my relationship with Jesus centers me amongst what can be transitory chaos. As a recent college grad, I’ve found the road after institutionalized education is quite unclear. Where do I go, what do I want to do in life, and where do I see myself five years from now? I’ve found that I don’t need to see the finish line in order to take a step forward. My trust in God also equally ensures me that the steps I take, while perhaps on bumpy ground, are directed in purpose.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I would consider myself a creative producer. I’ve practiced various forms of art, including sculpture, drawing, painting, photography, and garment design. It’s hard to pick a favorite medium, but if I had to choose it would be garment design. During the pandemic, I figured I had enough time at home to learn on my own. It was something I had previously written off as too hard to attempt, but I decided to not give up and push through the lens of perfectionism that was holding me back. Once I learned how to do basic pattern drafting, I started making bespoke designs for myself and for friends.
I remember my first ever original design was a pair of pants I made for my best friend for her birthday. She wanted something comfy yet stylish, and it was through those conversations I learned how to design based on client wants and needs. Two years later, I now have clients who commission me to make custom pieces for special occasions and daily wear.
Reflecting on where I was two years ago has made me incredibly proud of where I am now. Lacking educational training in garment construction was definitely an obstacle; however, I’ve realized nothing is truly too hard to accomplish if you put your mind to it.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
It’s hard to say exactly where the fashion industry is going right now. Hopefully, it shifts in a direction that is geared toward sustainability, human rights, and what some call slow fashion. There are beginnings of small trends favoring those positive directions and I think social media is a significant factor in the dissemination of gatekept information; yet, dismantling anything in the currently existing system of widespread fashion consumption to me feels like climbing Mt Everest. Incredibly difficult, yet still possible.
Realistically, I see brands becoming transparent about ethical sourcing and manufacturing. I think the biggest hurdle is the economic feasibility of the average consumer committing to long-term change. Fast fashion is cheap, instantly gratifying, and extremely accessible. I hope my work as a designer helps others to think thoughtfully about clothing as an investment, considering the time and effort that goes into creating a garment.
Pricing:
- Tops: $250
- Skirts: $250
- Pants/Shorts: $300
- Dresses: $350
- Outerwear: $400 *Price will vary based on design & materials
Contact Info:
- Website: nicolelecher.com
- Instagram: @nicole.lecher
Image Credits
Personal Picture, Image Credit: Alina Tomasevic Other Images: Nicole Lecher
