Background: Studied graphic design at Loyola University and while in her first job, found it wasn’t for her. Went to the School of the Art Institute for fashion design, graduated in May 2006 and unveiled her first collection just over a year later.
The Pieces: Classic designs that feature unique patterns, details and draping, high-quality fabrics and lots of experimentation with embellishments. “I like to use techniques that would have been made the same 100 years ago.”
Designer inspirations: John Galliano, Marc Jacobs, Karl Lagerfeld.
On being a designer in Chicago: “The press here is very generous. You meet people who are excited about your work and want to help.”
Chicago inspirations: Chicago architecture and the Art Institute, both the school and the museum. The different seasons, too. “In the dead of winter, you want to wear interesting clothing. It’s inspiring to keep winter clothing interesting.”
What to look for: A new Serpico studio/storefront opening up this June at 1514 N. Ashland, with room for both creating and hosting sales and events.
Where to find Serpico: Lissa on Maxwell, Michelle Tan, Totem (Hinsdale), M. Santana (Forest Park). Studio-808.com, melissaserpico.com
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