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, maybe two pieces at a time, as they’re ready. Small quantities. Often made-to-order. Each release will be capped and produced in limited numbers. Sometimes one of ten, occasionally one of one.
The pieces are made from thoughtfully sourced and reclaimed materials, vintage textiles and 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 return to myself.
The label is greatly inspired by the people, places, and various moments that helped shape me, along with the vintage items I’ve collected over the decades. specifically, the clothes my mother wore when I was a kid, many that I am grateful to now have hanging in my closet. .
My process is slow and hands on. I’m not interested in growing a large brand. I want to remain small, manageable, and special.
I want to explore every avenue—knitwear, Leather work, intimates, even shoes.
This is going to be fun.
xx, JKM
The name and bRANDING process of my label proved incredibly difficult. The meaning behind it is so close to my heart, and I wanted to find a way to honor my grandparents properly. They all have very cool names, but I ultimately went with Irène and her signature became the my main logo and I adore it. I have purchased the domains of the others because that’s just what I do.
I also drew what I call a “Leo-corn” to honor my namesake, my sign, and my favorite childhood movie.
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SPIKE AND WANDA
MY MOTHER’S PARENTS
These two mean more to me than most. Spike and Wanda helped raise me. Some of my core memories as a kid were during the times I lived with them. They were the definition of class, beautiful inside and out, and they moved through life together with the biggest hearts. Spike passed away several year ago, but Wanda continues to inspire. I have a phone full of screenshots every time I see that she hearts one of my Instagram posts. -
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LEO
My father’s Dad
These two mean more to me than most. Spike and Wanda helped raise me. Some of my core memories as a kid were during the times I lived with them. They were the definition of class, beautiful inside and out, and they moved through life together with the biggest hearts. Spike passed away several year ago, but Wanda continues to inspire. I have a phone full of screenshots every time I see that she hearts one of my Instagram posts.
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Irène
My father’s mom
These two mean more to me than most. Spike and Wanda helped raise me. Some of my core memories as a kid were during the times I lived with them. They were the definition of class, beautiful inside and out, and they moved through life together with the biggest hearts. Spike passed away several year ago, but Wanda continues to inspire. I have a phone full of screenshots every time I see that she hearts one of my Instagram posts. -
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Mary
My Mother
These two mean more to me than most. Spike and Wanda helped raise me. Some of my core memories as a kid were during the times I lived with them. They were the definition of class, beautiful inside and out, and they moved through life together with the biggest hearts. Spike passed away several year ago, but Wanda continues to inspire. I have a phone full of screenshots every time I see that she hearts one of my Instagram posts.
