Irène is a small-batch assemblage of garments and objects designed and constructed inside my private studio. Everything is made by hand with a focus on quality, using finishing techniques that are commonly discarded by mass-produced clothing. In lieu of traditional collections and seasons, I’ll be releasing one to two pieces at a time as they’re ready, primarily made-to-order in very small quantities. Each release will be capped and produced based on materials—that could be one of five, one of ten, or occasionally one of one.
Our pieces are made from thoughtfully sourced and reclaimed materials, vintage textiles, and remnant fabrics whenever possible.
Me and my first boyfriend, Jesse, Trinidad and Tobago, 1983.
Irène, named after my grandmother, is a deeply personal creative endeavor of self-expression and rediscovery. It’s a welcome return to myself and my love of making clothes.
The label is greatly inspired by the various people and moments that helped shape me, with a nod to the vintage pieces I’ve admired and collected over the decades. Specifically, those my mother wore when I was a kid, many that I am grateful to have hanging in my closet.
My process is slow and hands-on. I’m not looking to grow a prominent brand in the fashion space. To me, this is a passion project that I want to remain manageable, special, and intentionally small.
I plan to dip my toes in all arenas—knitwear, leather work, intimates, even shoes.
This is going to be fun.
xx, JKM
The naming process of my label proved incredibly difficult. The meaning behind is deeply personal and dear to my heart. I wanted to find a way to properly honor my grandparents. They all have unique and very cool names, but I ultimately chose Irène, my dad’s mother. Her penned name (above) became the brand’s signature logo. I adore it.
The submark for the brand is what I call a “Leo”-corn to honor my namesake, my sign, and my favorite childhood movie, The Last Unicorn (1982).
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WANDA
My mother’s mom
A talented painter, fashion model, mother of seven, and my only living grandparent. Wanda felt like a mom-away-from-mom to me at times. I wrestled with naming my label because she is so deserving, but I have boxes full of Wanda, yet so few of Irène. I’m honoring them both with Wanda’s photos and Irène’s name.
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Irène
My father’s mom
My grandmother Irène was an incredibly kind, selfless woman whose warmth was unparalleled. She is my father’s hero and also one of mine. She was a dedicated and hardworking nurse; she loved the Mets, and I can still hear her voice recounting the stories from her days and what she had cooked for “supper.”
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Mary
My Mother
Ours was not a conventional relationship by any means, but in the tsunami of grief since her death, I’ve managed to find and hold onto the good. She sang John Lennon instead of lullabies. Every meal she made, she coined “gourmet.” Her taste was immaculate, and I thought she was the most beautiful woman in the world. I still do.
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SPIKE AND WANDA
MY MOTHER’S PARENTS
Some people define the word “love,” setting a standard you measure against all your life. Spike and Wanda are that for me. Some of the safest, core memories of my childhood are times spent living with them. These two helped raise me. I owe them more than words can properly hold. Thank you.
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LEO
My father’s dad
I never got the chance to meet my Grandpa Leo. He died years before I was born, but he became part of my identity when I was given a middle name as a tribute to him. Later, I tattooed LEO on my wrist not only because it’s my sign but also as a nod to the industrious farmer that my grandfather was.
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SPIKE
My mother’s dad
My magic man with a heart of pure gold. Everyone’s knight in turquoise armor, a “goodly” friend and comrade. A protective father and loving grandfather. He was always smiling; loved hot sauce and oysters, The Golden Girls, and game shows; and he made the best buttered toast. I miss him dearly.
