MISEMI X RUN IT: S1 EP5

Missy, the founder of Misemi joined us for our fifth episode. We discussed her journey thus far and how she presents such an impactful brand.

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On a cold winter’s evening, we cracked open a bottle of rum and let the festivities begin. Featuring a variety of snacks, we set up and welcomed Missy into the room. And if you didn’t know, our next event is on Wednesday 27th November at Boxpark Shoreditch – get tickets here.

Fashion is a form of expression that helps to reveal your character and even define your identity. So, from rapper, Cameron’s famous baby pink ensembles to Missy Elliott’s style innovations, it’s really interesting to see how much detail is put into an artist’s image these days. As a result, it’s no wonder why Designs by Misemi are now being hunted by stylists and have been worn by the likes of Julie Adenuga, Mahalia, Lethal B, and Ray Blk just to name a few!

Where to find Designs by Misemi

Being stocked in both Shoreditch’s Atika and Peckhams’ Bidhaar, Missy reveals that her success didn’t happen over night. Growing up in Essex proved to be quite a culture shock. Experiencing racist messages put up at bus stops, to experimenting with hair styles that her white counterparts used to sport; fitting in seemed more like a task.

In the beginning…

Having strict parents meant that a particularly creative avenue wasn’t going to be an acceptable choice to them to study at uni. Being torn between her interest in the arts and taking on board her parent’s suggestion, Missy went on to study architecture at Nottingham University. Whilst struggling and often questioning her true calling she soon crossed paths with something more creative once again. Her father had bought a sewing machine and soon after, Missy started to customise her own one-off pieces for herself. Her amazing designs soon caught the eye of her friends too. She also began to create small collections for university fashion shows which quickly gained attention. At the time there was no name attached, but little did Missy know, this was the beginning of Misemi.

Misemi at a Glance.

Her designs incorporate a true streetwear style, translatable across a range of social groups, music stars and youngsters. Missy uses a clever combination of colours, patterns, images, fits and designs. Misemi exudes the definition of “über cool” fashion, accessible to everyone. Prices range from £20 for smaller pieces such as bandeau tops, to £200 for full tracksuits. Custom pieces are available too which will come at a price, but you will not be disappointed with the quality. It’s no wonder why Missy’s creations are in high demand. Oh and did we mention they are all hand made to order?

Featuring the brand’s key slogan, “They love our culture, but not us” is superbly canny. It provokes today’s “Brexit, means Brexit” mentality in some groups to think and feel beyond their own thoughts. This is brilliant as for years, many groups who pose as superior have tried to coin traditions, styles and values that perhaps, do not truly belong to them. Misemi is a true example of how creative entities such as fashion can pose questions and promote unity through building a community.

Opportunities with Misemi.

As you will hear on this episode of our podcast, we had a really interesting conversation with Missy about her coming into her own with Misemi. Additionally, for any aspiring creatives or anyone already embarking on their journey, it’s okay to feel lost. It’s okay to feel confused. It’s also okay to follow your heart and do what makes you happy (without causing intentional harm to others). For those looking to break into the fashion industry please look into this fantastic opportunity that Misemi are offering: Misemi – Design & Production Work Placement (Intern).

Please feel free to leave us any feedback, questions or suggestions you may have. Check out our previous episode here with DJ Denz.