The moment I heard the crackle in the air I began to scour across the land to discover new and innovative clothing to mark the change in seasons. It’s a common ritual for many of us to go shopping to find the latest in fall and winter fashion. However it’s very rare and less frequent when we find something NEW that we love, appreciate, and cannot do without.
It’s an accessory of the fall we often times forget about, simply because we are purchasing it out of a necessity versus the desire to create a signature look throughout the chill of the night.
Although we can struggle with what to wear during periods of undecided climates, we’re also known for creating trends that the average person would forsake. Why not create a fashion statement when the thermometers and temperatures reflect a state of confusion? Climates between seasons are exactly when we’re able to showcase our love for fashion and appreciation for designers who successfully embrace their artistry of design and creativity.
Today I’m here to tell you about someone who is hot and trending in fashion. Margo Petitti is someone who we believe is not only hot but someone who is creating and developing the most uniquely, stunning, stylish, trendy and breathtaking Men’s scarves.
Within in seconds of conversing with Margo, I knew she was not only humble and passionate about her company; she was someone I believe in and instantly started rooting for.
If we could win awards for outstanding personality, kindness, and doing excellent business, she would have my vote.
Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from, what’s your background?
I’m from Providence, RI, and my mom is from Portugal (the Azores). My background is in Horticulture, I graduated with a BS in Plant Science.
What does fashion and style mean to you?
Style is very individual. I dress in jeans and John Deere hats most days, so I really can’t judge. I’m one of the least fashionable people I know.
What interests you about men’s accessories and how did you become involved with scarves?
I particularly like mens because I think they are often overlooked when it comes to accessories. When most people think of scarves they think of women, but men need special things too.
I started when I was in graduate school for landscape architecture. When Christmas came I needed to get a gift for my father but I was broke. I have a friend that is in the made to measure business and he was discontinuing a line of fabrics and gave me the old books. I cut out the swatches and made my dad a scarf. Everyone liked it and so I quit school and started the company.
From where do you draw inspiration?
I draw my inspiration from the cloth. I never design a collection without selecting fabrics first.
What is involved with making one of the patchwork or stripe scarves?
All of the patchwork scarves are one of a kind. All of the 38 swatches are laid out one of a time, then stitched and pressed, the back is joined, then turned and top stitched. It’s actually more complicated than that, but its best to see on the YouTube video on my website [see below]. It shows the entire process.
What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing?
We use the best of the best fabrics, manufacture in the USA and have crazy quality control. We’ve only had one item returned to us in 4 years because a thread was cut. That’s one garment out of thousands!
The quality of a garment is in the details. The pressing of the seams, the consistent 1/16th of an inch top stitch, things like that.
How did your business come about and how do you balance creativity with commerce?
I can’t really do the same thing everyday, so the balance between creativity and commerce is perfect for me. One week I’m working on fabric buying and design, and the next I’m meeting with buyers. Always something new.
What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a clothing business?
Expect to work constantly. I am always working, but I enjoy it. I need to stay busy. Quality is the most important thing for us. That’s what makes our product stand out. People come to expect that from us. Make sure you have something that makes you stand out.
What are some of your fashion goals?
I’ve thought about starting a clothing line for men, but that wouldn’t be for a while. I would like to stick to what I know for now.
Where do you see yourself in five years time?
I could see myself opening a small store in the city. But don’t quote me on that.
