Ever since her models hit the runway at Minneapolis-St. Paul Fashion Week {also known as, "The Shows"}, we Minneapolis fashionistas haven't been able to stray our eyes from her beautiful one-of-a kind designs. A master creator of custom-made boxy bleached-dyed tops, perfectly minimal kimonos + dresses, and those to-die-for tasseltries, Lisa adds that certain "Savoir-Faire" to the Minneapolis fashion scene that we simply can't deny. Check out this exclusive Q/A with the creative force behind Hackwith Design House, Lisa Hackwith. What led you to create Hackwith Design House?
With a background in Studio Art, I began teaching myself to sew. In 2010, I started designing pieces and selling them on Etsy. Shortly after, boutiques starting contacting me for look books and line sheets which ultimately led me to quit my day job to concentrate on sewing. After selling wholesale to various boutiques, I revisited by business plan. I now focus mainly on designing limited edition pieces and collaborations with boutiques.
How does social media play a role in your business?
Oddly enough, I just joined Instagram last summer. It's a great way to showcase what I'm working on and gives my followers a glimpse inside a day at HDH. Because many of my designs are limited editions, it's a great resource to let people know when pieces will be released. I believe it's important to connect with your audience and make them feel included in the brand. Alongside various social media efforts, I also collaborate with bloggers who have been very helpful in promoting my designs as brand ambassadors.
Tell us more about your local boutique collaborations
I design pieces exclusively for Parc Boutique, Mille, and Cliche. It's fun to create and curate different pieces that fit with the boutique's aesthetics- all unique in their own way!
Where do you go for inspiration?
I turn to various tumbler blogs and social media for inspiration but I also trust my own instincts and personal style. I only design pieces I can see myself wearing over and over again and styled many different ways.
Describe the overall vibe of your brand
Stand out yet perfectly minimal, not-overworked, versatile pieces that can be worn many ways.
Besides unique, one-of-a-kind clothing, what else do you design?
Right now, I'm launching the Tassletry section on our website. These unique wall hangings are a result of my unwillingness to throw away baskets and baskets of scrap fabric. After making some in my spare time for friends with all difference decorating styles, I realized that they can complement any space, bringing just the right amount of structure and whimsy. Each Tassletry is handmade and different than the one before, guaranteeing one-of-a-kind decor. They come in small (16 inches), medium (28 inches), and large sizes (40 inches), and they will be released on the website as they are made so keep checking back for more!
What sets HDH apart from other fashion lines?
I'm all about the details and I love that HDH has hangtags that I can hand write the name, quantity and size on them. I love that we number all of our products as they go out so each piece feel unique and special. And most of all, I love that we slowly release our items once a week instead of in collections.
When you aren't designing fabulous clothing, how do you like to spend your weekends?
My husband and I love taking our adorable pup {Samson} on walks to the dog park. We try to stay active and enjoy the outdoors while also exploring the Twin Cities restaurant scene!
{Photography: L&E Photography}