Conversations with Chloe Montoya

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chloe Montoya.

Hi Chloe, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself. 
My journey into the world of fashion began at a young age, fueled by a passion for creativity and expression. I vividly remember carrying my Project Runway design book everywhere, sketching out my imaginative creations. It wasn’t until high school that I discovered my niche love for swimwear. This was when I started really seeking out the best high-quality brands and developing a distinct taste in my purchases. 

I grew up visiting Hawaii often, then visiting my sister when she lived there, then living there myself. Bikini fashion is so prevalent there, even more than clothing! It was easy to fall deeper into my love for swim while I was living on the island. Immersed in this environment, my ideas for my own swimwear collections began to take shape, but it wasn’t until about a year and a half ago that I finally took the leap and launched my own brand. 

Inspired by my adventures in Hawaii, where I often found myself hiking to waterfalls, surfing, and diving through caves—all in a bikini—I envisioned creating a line that seamlessly blends functionality with whimsical fashion. I wanted to design pieces that not only looked beautiful but also allowed wearers the freedom to move and play without constraints. 

I have also always been drawn to Paris. The hues, the language, the lifestyle—all have held a magnetic allure for me. It was this fascination with the slow and elegant Parisian way of life that inspired the name ‘Oui the Label.’ For me, ‘oui’ represents more than just a simple ‘yes’; it symbolizes embracing new experiences, pursuing dreams, and taking that leap of faith—just as I did when embarking on this entrepreneurial journey. 

Ultimately, my goal with Oui the Label is to inspire our community to say ‘oui’ to life’s adventures, to follow their passions fearlessly, and to embrace both fashion and functionality in everything they do. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
While starting Oui the Label has filled me with so much purpose and an exciting outlet for my creativity; it hasn’t been without its challenges. Like any entrepreneurial endeavor, starting a business is not for the weak-hearted. There are always redirections and changes happening behind the scenes, but I’ve learned that all I can do is find a solution and move forward. 

Bringing ideas to life has been a harder process than expected. Though I’m full of inspiration, ensuring that I communicate my ideas thoroughly and effectively has been essential. From conceptualizing new designs to envisioning the perfect cuts and styles, translating these ideas from sketches to tangible garments requires meticulous attention to detail and effective communication with manufacturers and suppliers. 

Also, finding the best materials has been a crucial aspect of ensuring the quality and sustainability of our products. It’s not just about sourcing fabrics that look and feel great but also about prioritizing eco-friendly and ethical options. This process involves extensive research, testing, and sometimes trial and error to find materials that meet our standards for both aesthetics and sustainability. 

Despite these challenges, every setback served as an opportunity for growth and learning. By remaining adaptable and steadfast in our commitment to quality and sustainability, we’ve been able to overcome obstacles and continue moving forward on our journey. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a content creator for the past nine years, my work revolves around my passion for photography, styling, and creative direction. What started as a natural inclination towards visual storytelling has blossomed into a fulfilling career where I have the privilege of collaborating with my dream brands! 

My lifestyle content focuses on fashion, nature, books, and travel. Rather than confining myself to a specific niche, I embrace the diversity of my interests and experiences, allowing my creativity to flourish without constraints. I believe this authenticity is what resonates with my audience and sets me apart from others in the industry. 

What I’m most proud of is maintaining my authenticity and staying true to my vision amidst a world often driven by trends and the hopes of virality. Instead of chasing fleeting trends, I draw inspiration from my own passions and experiences, resulting in content that is genuine and meaningful. 

Looking ahead, I aspire to extend this authenticity to my brand, Oui the Label, and collaborate with my dream brands to bring my creative vision to life in the realm of sustainable fashion. By remaining true to myself and my inspirations, I aim to continue creating meaningful content that resonates with others and inspires them to embrace their authenticity as well :). 

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My journey in finding a mentor and networking in the creative world has been a combination of serendipity and intentional community-building. Moving back to California at the start of the pandemic presented its own set of challenges, but I found solace and opportunity in connecting with creatives in my community through social media. 

Meeting up with people I admired on social media through events, coffee meetups, and collaborative photo shoots allowed me to establish meaningful connections and friendships. Over time, I found myself surrounded by a diverse and talented group of individuals who shared my passion for creativity. 

I met Shamani Hall at this time, the owner of Shop Shani, and she was the first person in the fashion world that felt safe and was willing to help me find my way in creating a brand of my own. Her willingness to share her knowledge and experiences has been instrumental in shaping my path forward. She’s a close friend turned mentor as she continues to help me navigate Oui. I can’t express how thankful I am to have met her. 

My advice for finding a mentor and building a network is simple: get to know your community. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who inspire you and share your passion. Engage in meaningful conversations, collaborate on projects, and be open to learning from others. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ouiouithelabel.com/
• Instagram: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.instagram.com/oui_the_label/&sa=U&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwjF4cG86LaFAxX2LkQIHRlYDSQQFnoECBYQAQ&usg=AOvVaw0mNXzdIshH0nqxqq34hTmN
• Other: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.tiktok.com/%40ouithelabel&sa=U&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwiBidLE6LaFAxVhDEQIHcuzClwQFnoECBMQAQ&usg=AOvVaw0NB5jTPwtjyQUR5iXsXHVB

Image Credits
Jessica Sulls
Valerie Vogt
Danica Joy
Madeline Javier