Elevated Ease for Women of Influence
ABOUT J.MULLIN APPAREL
A Story of Reinvention
We are an apparel business that specializes in designing and creating elevated and sophisticated kimonos and kimono-inspired trench coats and jackets that are lightweight and easy to pair with classic separates. Created from artistic combinations of curated new and repurposed fabrics, each garment is a one-of-a-kind piece. Our propietary designs are created in three standardized silhouettes in two inclusive sizes from digitized patterns that we have designed. We also have a line of handmade one-of-a-kind scarves that are created from repurposed fabrics, including silks and kimono fabrics.
Like most innovations, our products evolved as a solution to a problem. As a corporate executive in creative environments, it was important for me to present myself in a professional, yet artistic way. I needed to bring my best self to every situation, which meant dressing in a way that was distinctive yet relaxed. I quickly learned how to soften the classic corporate looks of that time by adding an artistic and unexpected edge.
As my roles evolved and lifestyle evolved, my style of dressing needed to adapt -- not just to the changing fashion trends, but also to the changes in my size and shape. It became more and more difficult to find clothing in retail stores that were stylish and that would flatter my changing body and would also fit my more sophisticated lifestyle.
One day I went to my closet looking for something to wear to a swanky event, and could not put an outfit together to save my life. So, I did what most women in my situation would do: I went shopping. Bad idea. I was desperate to find something that would give me the confidence I needed to go to the event. Being new in town, I did not know anyone, and wanted to feel that I was showing up as the best version of myself.
I went to every upscale boutique and department store I could find, but ended up not finding anything that was acceptable. Nothing fit. Nothing seemed sophisticated or elevated enough. The store staff hardly spoke to me at all. I felt invisible and insignificant. I went home empty-handed.
As a last resort, I pulled out some fabrics I had been collecting for another purpose, and started combining the prints and the magic started to happen. By the time I was finished, I had cut out and sewn a unique long jacket that was a collage of interesting fabrics and had a slimming silhouette. Pairing it with some long, flowing pants and a sleeveless top, I truly felt fabulous walking into that intimidating event.
That night a woman came up to me and asked me where I got the beautiful jacket and told me she would buy it in a heartbeat. Her reaction to what I had made for myself inspired me to start making more of these elongating, flattering jackets. Within a year I was working with a team of pattern makers and sewing professionals to create an entire collection of kimono-inspired jackets and robes that elevate the classic separates that most women already own.
Since that time, J.Mullin Apparel has appeared on runways and in retail boutique trunk shows throughout the Kansas City Area and beyond. Our small team of creatives and professionals work to create events designed to inspire women to be more of who they are by pairing our beautiful, flattering statement piece jackets, coats and scarves with their classic separates.
Joanne Mullin
It is gratifying to see lives transformed. Whether through the efforts of others whom we can support, or through making garments that help women see themselves in a new way, the true transformation is my own.
Inspired by women who are confident and are not afraid to be seen and heard, I love to provide them with an alternative to what typical retailers have to offer. As we enter the most productive time of our lives -- when we have the confidence to be all we were born to be, we deserve to have options for dressing well.
Giving Back
This has become a personal mission for me. I have met and come to know so many fabulous people, and the opportunities for helping others are everywhere.
My husband, Bill, and I are committed to donating a portion of our proceeds to support non-profit organizations that provide services to those who are recovering from addiction and/or abusive situations. Our biggest reward is seeing changed lives.
