ExpectClothing

Expect began as my thesis design collection under the moniker Nine, when I graduated from Massachusetts College of Art and Design in 2011. From that five-piece mommy-centric pattern-filled line, grew a business.

What was once a small line of colorful, comfortable, and versatile clothing designed to be worn through all stages of pregnancy, grew to include all women -- pregnant or not. The most natural next step was to add children’s wear and home decor.

I strive to create pieces that you can’t find anywhere but in my shop. I provide a product designed for a very special time in a person’s life -- the arrival of a new member of his or her family. As such, I endeavor to make pieces that are special enough to mark such a wonderful occasion.

I make everything by hand in my Los Angeles home studio. It is a light-filled, fabric hoarder’s paradise. My only coworkers are my trusty mannequins, Eddie and Billie, and my dog, Bucket. While they are good company, they aren’t much help. I operate Expect all on my own: from concept and design, pattern and production, to marketing and selling.

I am obsessed with fabrics. Print and color speak strongly to me, and I get most excited when the two coincide in a wonderful way, especially if that fabric is vintage. I love repurposing materials, so I’ve been using vintage scarves, handkerchiefs, buttons, and uncirculated bolts of vintage printed cotton. When I’m designing maternity clothing, comfort is a main priority, so taking the time to hand select the softest, stretchiest cotton-lycra jersey knits is of the utmost importance to me. It all begins with the fabric. From there, anything is possible.

I love my customers because every purchase comes with a story. Whether she is picking out a new dress for her growing belly, purchasing a gift for an expectant friend, dressing his child or grandchild, or making a nursery perfect for her little one, I trust that each of my designs is going to a loving home. I love working on custom projects! I am so inspired by my customers and their lives, and creating something just for them is always such a joy.

I believe in handmade goods. I believe in color, print, and pattern. I believe a cookie break is always in order. I believe that I get more work done after midnight. I believe that the anticipation and arrival of a new baby is the most special time in a person’s life and should always be celebrated!