Today we’d like to introduce you to Martina Terelle
Hi Martina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey as a fashion designer began at a young age. My mother was a professional seamstress and taught me how to sew when I was ten years old. I fell in love with sketching and designing outfits for my Barbie dolls, and by high school, I began making clothes for myself, my friends, and my family. By the time I reached college, I had already participated in several local talent shows and fashion shows in the surrounding area.
Growing up in a small town (Saginaw MI), I faced limited resources and opportunities, which motivated me to move to a big city. After graduating from college, I moved to L.A. to work in Fashion P.R., where I established valuable connections with designers and wardrobe stylists in the industry. In 2012, I decided to pursue my dream of attending design school, so I enrolled at a school in Pittsburgh where I took courses toward a Bachelor of Fine Arts. A few years later, I began offering bespoke design services to clients.
In 2019, I founded Seamstar Design, a platform for creative inspiration and a resource hub for upcoming designers. After navigating the challenges brought about by the pandemic, in November 2023, I rebranded Seamstar and introduced a product line featuring fashion textiles, trims, and embellishments. My mission is to support the sewist, crafter, hobbyist, and fashion designer community by providing essential tools, resources, and local opportunities. My goal is to create career opportunities for upcoming designers who struggle to find work in their field and to support individuals within my community who are eager to learn sewing skills.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As a small business owner and designer, I constantly face various challenges in the ever-evolving and highly competitive industry of fashion. One of the main challenges is staying ahead of rapidly changing trends and consumer preferences. It’s essential to anticipate and adapt to these shifts while maintaining a unique and recognizable design aesthetic. Additionally, sourcing high-quality materials and managing costs can be a struggle. Despite these challenges, I’ve greatly enjoyed the journey so far! I feel as though I am exactly where I’m supposed to be. Overcoming these challenges has ultimately led to personal and professional growth, making the journey as a fashion designer both rewarding and enriching.
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?
As a bespoke fashion designer, I specialize in creating custom garments and have been working in the industry as a freelancer for over 20 years. My portfolio includes designing gowns for proms, weddings, and other special occasions. While my focus is on women’s wear, I have also crafted tuxedo jackets for a few male clients. What brings me the greatest satisfaction is knowing that my clients feel joyful and confident while wearing my designs. Ensuring my clients’ happiness is always my top priority.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
I feel happy when I discover things that inspire me. It doesn’t matter if it’s music, art, nature, etc. I love how it evokes so many different emotions. It’s the purest form of motivation.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.seamstarstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seamstarstudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seamstarstudio
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/seamstarstudio
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/seamstarstudio
