esby | Bonnie and the Mermaids

fort pond striped tunic

Happy 4^th! What better way to celebrate Independence Day than dressing up in some spectacular pieces from the lovely made-in-USA line, esby? Everything is designed in Austin by the super-talented Stephanie Beard, and it is produced in New Orleans. The fabrics are fantastic, the silhouettes are flattering, and everything is so basic yet special at the same time. I am completely in love. Check out their season 1 lookbook here, featuring my girl, the absolutely stunning Lauren Kirby! Read on for a quick interview with Stephanie, and head over to esby’s website to start shopping!

How did you get started?

As a menswear designer for several large corporations, I really loved living in NYC and was just shy of my 10th year there. But, I didn’t think it was the right place for me to try and start a business. In 2012, I grabbed all my savings and moved to Austin with hopes the growing inexpensive city full of small businesses would accept mine.

What brought you to Austin?

Warm weather, a laid-back atmosphere and friendly people

Where are your pieces made?

All of our pieces are made in New Orleans. Then, we send them to NJ and NC so they can be dyed with garment dyes and indigo or given a softening wash. We want the piece you purchase to be the same piece you love even after you wash it. These washes take the shrink out and give the styles a more lived in look and feel.

What is your favorite item from your current collection?

Right now I’m really loving the solid black chambray kimono top. It’s sort of structured and not at all – all at the same time. It’s an easy piece to dress up in if you still want to feel super comfortable, and it has a simple Japanese feel to it.

Thanks, Stephanie!