Local Legend: MIRI's Chic Design Pro Shows Off Her Winter Style
One of the top reasons we love where we live (#DCpride) is that we have no shortage of multi-talented, world-traveling creative types who make their mark on the city and represent the District wherever they go (like this biking babe). Our latest It Girl obsession? Mera Anwar, an Olney-based designer whose clothing line, MIRI, epitomizes the intersection of global influences: flawless European tailoring, exotic Asian embroidery, and edgy detailing inspired by American urban hubs.
We've beenstalking following Anwar's adventures since her impeccable style stopped us in our tracks at our launch party last year, and finally caught up with the self-described nomad for a quick photo sesh. Click through to find out where this up-and-coming design pro shops, the celeb she'd love to outfit, and where you can buy her gorgeous designs. Get to know her now, because — and you heard it here first —this gal is goin' places.
Tell us a little bit about yourself. What are your passions outside of fashion?
"For most of my life, I’ve lived in the suburbs of Washington. I have been lucky enough to live and work in a few amazing cities, including D.C., New York, Paris, and LA. Living in different places has cultured me and played a huge part in building my design identity — travel is key to getting inspired! I started my career in fashion while living in Paris and working for designer Jasmin Santenen. Shortly after, I moved to New York City to attend Parsons. Currently, I have two studios, one in D.C. where I design the collection, and one in New York where we do production.
Aside from fashion, I’ve become extremely passionate and cautious about what I eat. This stemmed from my time in Paris — organic produce and whole foods are readily available there, while in the U.S., GMO’s are the norm. Most Americans have no clue about the toxins they eat on a daily basis...although it is great to see the progress that our country has made towards living healthier lifestyles.
Tell us about your clothing line.
"MIRI is a contemporary women’s clothing label. Inspired by my travels, I have infused inspirations from different corners of the world."
How and when did you know this was something you wanted to do? Have you always been into fashion?
"I’ve always had a knack for design, and I knew that fashion would be the medium."
What was it like getting started?
"Hands down, the decision to start my own line has been the most challenging, yet rewarding venture of my life. It all started when I was given the opportunity of a lifetime to present my first collection during NYFW. It was a great stepping-stone into the industry, and I learned so much in the process."
Mera wears a Stella lace peplum top, MIRI neoprene skirt, LaRok vest, BCBG coat, Prada shoes, Michele watch, and bracelets from Hermes, Tai and ASOS.
We've been
Tell us a little bit about yourself. What are your passions outside of fashion?"For most of my life, I’ve lived in the suburbs of Washington. I have been lucky enough to live and work in a few amazing cities, including D.C., New York, Paris, and LA. Living in different places has cultured me and played a huge part in building my design identity — travel is key to getting inspired! I started my career in fashion while living in Paris and working for designer Jasmin Santenen. Shortly after, I moved to New York City to attend Parsons. Currently, I have two studios, one in D.C. where I design the collection, and one in New York where we do production.
Aside from fashion, I’ve become extremely passionate and cautious about what I eat. This stemmed from my time in Paris — organic produce and whole foods are readily available there, while in the U.S., GMO’s are the norm. Most Americans have no clue about the toxins they eat on a daily basis...although it is great to see the progress that our country has made towards living healthier lifestyles.
Tell us about your clothing line.
"MIRI is a contemporary women’s clothing label. Inspired by my travels, I have infused inspirations from different corners of the world."
How and when did you know this was something you wanted to do? Have you always been into fashion?
"I’ve always had a knack for design, and I knew that fashion would be the medium."
What was it like getting started?
"Hands down, the decision to start my own line has been the most challenging, yet rewarding venture of my life. It all started when I was given the opportunity of a lifetime to present my first collection during NYFW. It was a great stepping-stone into the industry, and I learned so much in the process."
Mera wears a Stella lace peplum top, MIRI neoprene skirt, LaRok vest, BCBG coat, Prada shoes, Michele watch, and bracelets from Hermes, Tai and ASOS.
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