Fashion Designer of the Month for November 2023
Meet Mara Hoffman, a fashion visionary whose journey from Parsons School of Design graduate to sustainable fashion advocate showcases her deep connection to nature and her commitment to creating positive change in the fashion industry.
From her early years, Mara felt a profound calling to adorn the human body and express creativity through clothing. It was as if she found a way to connect with the world around her, celebrating movement and the feminine form. Her designs are a reflection of this connection, a dance between fabric, color, and shape that has enchanted many.
In 2015, Mara and her company embarked on a transformative journey towards sustainability. This change resonated with Mara’s spiritual connection to nature, especially the majestic ocean and wise trees. She sees trees as Earth’s guardians, brimming with wisdom, and this connection instilled in her a deep sense of responsibility to protect the environment.
Mara believes that while we can’t change the past, we can influence the present and future. Her brand’s shift towards sustainability marks a commitment to tread lighter on the Earth, with more awareness and respect. It’s about challenging systems that exploit both our planet and marginalized communities. Since 2015, the focus has been on acknowledging, reconciling, and changing.
For Mara, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it’s a guiding framework to improve every facet of her company. Sustainability means evolving and making choices that move towards a world where both climate and social justice thrive. It’s an ongoing journey of accountability, learning, and positive change.
In her role as a citizen of Earth, Mara’s brand has a voice and a responsibility to advocate for the oppressed, the marginalized, and the planet itself. She sees hope as a powerful force for change, and that’s the heart of her practice. Every design she creates embodies her relationship with nature, celebrating joy, beauty, and gratitude. These designs are her contribution to a world where care, resistance, and survival prevail.