Slideshow

Slide Show: Portland's Project Runway Alumni | Leanne Marshall

April 12, 2013

Greatest career achievement post Runway:

Building a successful bridal business and starting to become more known for that rather than PR. (Images from Marshall's current bridal collection.)

Photography by Leanne Marshall

Did the show accurately represent your style?

Yes, at the time. It's still similar, but it's been five years, so my style has evolved since the show.

Photography by Leanne Marshall

Why did you choose to leave Portland?

I wanted to show each season at NYFW and to have closer access to the markets, fabrics and production facilities in NY. It was a move out of convenience to better facilitate my business.

Photography by Leanne Marshall

Do you think it's possible to make it as a fashion designer if you stay here?

Yes, definitely. With the internet, it's certainly possible to do it and do it well. It may just mean more travel to NYC, limited production options, and a lot more shipping.

Photography by Leanne Marshall

What could we do here to improve that?

I think it would be great if there were more production facilities. Big companies can set up their own, but it's hard to find independent sewing contractors that will work with smaller businesses.

Photography by Leanne Marshall

What's the next big thing around the corner for you?

I'm continuing to grow my business, hiring people, and I'm about to move into a bigger showroom/atelier to accommodate the growth. Eventually, I would love to work in Paris as an haute couturière, but that's a bit of a long-term dream at the moment. My F

Photography by Leanne Marshall

If given the chance, would you do it again?

I don’t regret doing it one bit, but if I had the choice to choose doing it right now at this exact time in my life with the show at its 11th season, I don’t know if I would. When I did it, I felt it was new and exciting; now I think there may be better

Photography by Leanne Marshall

To read our extended interview with Leanne Marshall, check out this slide show of her recent collections.

Related Article:

The Road After Runway
Eleven seasons, seven Portlanders, three winners: we examine Project Runway's effect on Stumptown's designers.

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