Style Insiders: 5 questions with Kit & Ace technical designer Shelayne Mulholland

By Flannery Bloom

In this series,The Georgia Straight goes behind the scenes with fashion professionals to explore the workings of the local fashion industry.

Having begun sewing at a young age, Shelayne Mulholland was awarded a full scholarship to attend Kwantlen Polytechnic University for fashion design. During the completion of her degree, she did an exchange to Finland, as well as a work placement in West Africa. Fast-forward to today and Shelayne is working as a technical designer at Kit & Ace, specializing in cut-and-sew knits such as T-shirts, tanks and dresses.

1. How did you get to where you are today?

“My love for fashion started when I was old enough to dress myself. Since then I haven’t stopped sewing. My last job before Kit and Ace was designing a Capsule Collection for Threads of Peru in Cusco. I am where I am today because I have the most amazing support system of friends and family as well as a constant drive to better myself.”

2. What is a typical work day like for you?

“My day starts with a double-shot americano and answering emails from our vendors. I [then] spend part of the day in fittings looking at the latest prototypes for the season we are working on. We review each prototype from every angle [and]

I specialize in the details, everything from what seam finish is best to the precise logo placement or the perfect hidden pocket.”

3. What is your favourite thing about your job?

“I love my team! I get to work with incredibly talented, creative professionals. Everyone has so much to offer. I get inspired hearing about everyone’s artistic weekend projects and [the] innovative ideas they bring to work.”

4. What’s the most challenging thing about your work?

“The most challenging part of my day is how fast everything is moving. I have this ever-changing to-do list that I keep crossing off and adding to. Everyone at Kit & Ace has big goals and we are all moving fast to see them come together. To be honest, [though], I wouldn’t have it any other way. I live for the creative chaos.”

5. Who or what is your biggest fashion inspiration?

“I gain much of my fashion inspiration from travelling. Everywhere in the world I go I am looking at what people are wearing. Stella McCartney is one of my iconic favourites [and] if you ever have the pleasure of meeting the lovely Shannon Wilson, her style is always on point. I am always peeking over at her desk to see what she has on and how she’s put it together.”