Meet Melanie Joyce | Founder & Creative Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melanie Joyce and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melanie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
In middle school, a spark of inspiration ignited my desire to pursue a career as a fashion designer. During my undergraduate studies, I envisioned establishing my own fashion label, a dream that persisted through my journey to a Masters of Fine Art in grad school. The prospect of building my own brand held great significance for me, driven by a deep-seated desire to leave a lasting legacy. Maintaining creative autonomy, unrestricted by limitations on my artistic expressions, became a priority. Starting my own label emerged as the sole path forward, allowing me to shape my unique vision and forge a meaningful impact.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
My artistic expression is born from my perception of beauty, which manifests in various forms—music, nature, wildlife, travel, and architecture, to name a few. For me, the creative process is a journey, starting with inspiration and culminating in the manifestation of art in the realm of fashion. The distinguishing factor in my work, both as an artist and an individual, is authenticity. This authenticity sets me apart and will always be the unique element in my creations.

We are all artists in our own right, often sharing similar ideas with others across the world. The key difference lies in the authenticity infused into my creations. Rather than drawing inspiration directly from existing fashion, I choose to derive it from objects, subjects, or places. This approach ensures a diverse range of influences, allowing the silhouette of an exotic flower, the texture of a terrain, or the colors from a particular cuisine to shape my designs.

While not all my designs are avant-garde, practicality is an essential consideration. This pragmatic element addresses the missing pieces in my wardrobe, directly catering to my customer base. I take pride in navigating my creative journey authentically, aligning with the desires and purpose of my soul. Belief in myself serves as my anchor, a source of strength that surpasses external encouragement.

Challenges are an inherent part of this journey, and perspective is key. Understanding that challenges are a natural aspect of the process allows for acceptance and the ability to pivot or course correct when necessary. My intention as a designer and for my brand is to convey this commitment to authenticity, innovation, and the continuous evolution of my creative journey.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For me, the perfect day revolves around sharing the things I love. It begins with a tranquil morning, sipping tea from teacups on the balcony—a practice that grounds me in the present moment. Following that, we might engage in a leisurely walk or yoga session. Opting for breakfast at a locale that exudes the ambiance of another country is ideal.

If the weather is favorable, a post-breakfast hike immerses us in nature, providing an opportunity to share laughter and catch up. With my bestie around, who needs separate breakfast and lunch plans? Instead, we find ourselves laughing and joking our way into an impromptu nap before preparing for an evening out.

Dinner in the city sets the stage, and perhaps a nightcap leads us to a hidden gem of a lounge with great music, where we can dance the night away. Dancing is my source of joy—it feels like unwrapping freedom when I’m moving and connecting with my soul.

As the night winds down, we conclude with moon milk—a herbal drink known for promoting relaxation, but to me, it’s like a warm blanket in a mug. That’s it—my ideal day revolves around simplicity, fun, and being fully present. Fortunately, since I already have a bestie, it’s her ideal day too!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My primary pillars of support have been my parents, family, and friends, providing unwavering encouragement throughout my journey. The ULFC, founded by Ryan Ross, offered me the initial platform for showcasing my brand through a notable fashion show.

In 2020, the LISC, generously underwritten by Lowe’s, granted me the financial support crucial for sustaining my business during the pandemic. Amidst the challenges, I garnered significant recognition, with features in the world’s largest fashion publication, British Vogue, and Colorado’s prominent 303 Magazine. In 2021, Denver Fashion Week provided a prominent platform for my brand, featuring it as the headliner to conclude the week of shows.
Various digital publications also acknowledged my work, for which I am sincerely grateful.

A pivotal figure in my journey is Dawn Bookhardt, both mentor and avid supporter. Initially a custom client, she believed in me not only as a designer but as an individual with a unique gift. Her steadfast support has been instrumental in my continued success.

Recent accolades include being named the Best Womenswear Designer of 2023 by Lux Life Magazine, a prestigious British publication. Similarly, The New World Report Awards by North America Business honored my brand as the Best High-End Women’s Fashion Boutique of Colorado in 2023.

The recognition continued with my selection for the Accelerated Growth Program grant by the Office of Economic Development & International Trade Colorado in 2023. Shortly after completing the program, I was featured in the Denver Business Journal in connection with OOEC.

Last but certainly not least, I extend heartfelt gratitude to all my customers, clients, and the supportive community. The growth and success of my brand would not be possible without their unwavering support.

Website: www.melaniejoyce.com

Instagram: imelaniejoyce ; melaniejoyce_brand ; swankstylesociety

Twitter: imelaniejoyce

Facebook: imelaniejoyce

Image Credits
Josh Pruitt: IG @ivywildvisuals ZSA’NEE Gaines: IG @zsanee_ Jackson Miller: IG @jacksonmillr