Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Gatto.
Hi Lauren, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m originally from the New York/New Jersey/Pennsylvania tri-state area but have lived all over—from Switzerland to Tennessee to Guatemala, and now LA. I moved here in April 2019 to avoid the cold, eat delicious tacos, and pursue better career opportunities in textile product development.
I learned to sew and knit at a young age and always wanted to make a career out of it. I majored in Textile Design and Development at Philadelphia University (now Jefferson University).
My first adventure after college was working for a luxury mattress company. I designed and developed covers for mattresses and pillows. I’ll be honest: mattresses are boring. They’re either white or beige, and they’re always flat, so there wasn’t much room for innovation. But they’re crucial to life, and most people have one, so at least the work was steady.
After mattresses, I moved into apparel development and manufacturing—something I was much more passionate about. I worked for a sportswear manufacturer that specialized in licensed fan apparel, mostly for the NFL and NBA. I had the opportunity to move to Guatemala and work in their factory. I was only supposed to be there for one year, but I stayed for three! I learned Spanish, hiked volcanoes, and made friends with many nomads and expats who worked for non-profits.
Eventually, I decided to move to LA. So I quit my job, grabbed my stuff in Pennsylvania, packed my tiny Honda Fit, and drove across the country. I had interviews lined up when I got here, but ultimately, I accepted a job with… a mattress company. Boring! I told myself I would never work for one again, but they were a startup, and I could help them grow with my industry experience. I spent three years with them but knew I needed to get back into apparel.
And I did! I’m now a Product Development Manager for a prominent licensed sportswear company specializing in old-school/retro designs. I develop licensed clothing for all of the major sports leagues and get to work on cool merch for NCAA March Madness, WWE superstars and the Super Bowl Halftime Show.
In my spare time, I am constantly trying to expand my textile crafting skills. Mostly, I knit, crochet, and embroider. I recently took a rug-making class, which I am now obsessed with.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely! Just kidding, there have been a few potholes, but I don’t want to complain too much. I have been very lucky to travel the world, live in many places, and meet interesting people. Plus, I am able to pay rent in LA, a feat in itself. Each move and company change has brought unique challenges, but I’ve overcome them because a girl still has student loans to pay!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I think Textile Design is somewhat of a niche in LA. I have yet to meet anyone (outside of work) who also specializes in textiles.
Most people do not realize that someone has to develop the actual fiber content and knit structure of the shirt they are wearing.
My background includes a mixture of design and development, meaning I can speak to both the art and science behind textiles. It’s a pretty cool party trick if you know exactly how to get a stain out of someone’s clothing (hint: try using dish soap).
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
For any collaboration opportunities/creative work involving prints, textiles, etc., please message me on Instagram (@laurencgatto) or fill out the contact page on my website: https://laurencgatto.squarespace.com/contact
I would love to work with you!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://laurencgatto.squarespace.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurencgatto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lauren.gatto.88/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-gatto-45bb2a20/
