Jaclyn M began with a simple passion: a love for sewing and the art of creation. It wasn't just about fabric and thread; it was about the desire to bring truly individual and natural designs into the world. The seed of this idea was planted during my time in women's retail fashion. I witnessed first hand so many people searching for pieces that resonated with their unique style, pieces that felt both authentic and connected to the natural world. I saw a desire for something different, something more.
That desire became my calling. Jaclyn M is built upon a foundation of core values that remain at the heart of everything we do. We believe in:
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Ethical Production: We are deeply committed to responsible practices, ensuring that every piece is made with respect for both people and the planet.
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Creativity: Creativity is the lifeblood of our brand. It fuels our designs, our processes, and our connection with you.
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Local Support: We believe in the power of community. We work closely and directly with local artisans and makers here in New Zealand, people we know and trust, who share our dedication to quality and craftsmanship.
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Individuality: We celebrate the unique expression of self. We believe that fashion and design are powerful tools for communicating who we are, for grounding us in our own identity, and for allowing our personalities to shine.
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Quality: We are driven by a passion for excellence. From the finest details to the overall design, we pour our heart and soul into every creation.
Our mission is to empower you to live a fulfilling life, guided by your own vision. Whether you're crafting your own wardrobe with our Bare Thread Patterns or supporting local craftsmanship through our Jaclyn M brand, we want to provide the tools and inspiration for you to walk your own path with confidence and joy.
We strive to empower individuals to embrace their personal style, whether that style leans towards natural, neutral tones or bold, vibrant expressions of energy. We are here to encourage conscious consumption, to inspire a deeper understanding of what we truly need and desire, and to promote awareness of ethical practices, both within small, independent brands and as a counterpoint to the fast-fashion industry. While our focus remains on the positive, we aim to equip you with the knowledge to make informed choices.
We also want to share the spirit of Kiwi DIY, to empower you to create for yourself, and to take pride in the beauty and satisfaction of handmade creations.
The journey to Jaclyn M has been a long and winding road. Years were spent working in retail,
with countless hours dedicated to building the foundation of this brand. There have been many reinventions and challenges along the way, moments that tested the vision and pushed the boundaries of what was possible. One of the most significant challenges came with wholesaling to stores. At one point, we partnered with as many as 18 retailers – a small scale in the broader industry, but a substantial undertaking for a fledgling brand.
This period brought its own set of struggles. I often felt a disconnect between the direction I envisioned for the brand and the demands of the retail landscape. We were producing thousands of pieces a year, and while we remained committed to local production in New Zealand, it felt as though we were becoming part of a system of consumption that didn't fully align with our values.
The balance of creativity was compromised. Everything had to conform to the fast-fashion model, the photography, the styling, the overall presentation. And to be honest, it didn't feel like me. The turning point came when I began to say "no," when I realized that while there was widespread appreciation for the effort involved in New Zealand made goods, a select few retailers placed little value on the time, artistry, and dedication behind each piece. The experience became more negative than positive, and I knew I had to re-evaluate what I truly wanted from my business.
My quality of life had to become a priority. The relentless cycle of working seven days a week, often for 10-15 hours a day, had to end. I yearned for peace, for weekends, for the joy of creating for myself, rather than for the relentless demands of retail seasons.
I stepped back from the pressures of production for a couple of years to reflect on my path. I realized that what I truly sought was peace, joy, fulfillment, and a life lived with authenticity.
And so, after much contemplation, Jaclyn M has evolved. We now encompass Bare Thread Patterns, The Edit, and a renewed focus on the small things in life that truly matter: our own well being, our happiness, and the joy we find in everyday moments. We celebrate the pieces of ourselves and our lives that are often overlooked, the small things that make the biggest difference.
Thanks for stopping by
Jaclyn