Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashlee Stokes
Hi Ashlee, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey into the New York fashion industry involved a mix of interning, assisting, and consulting, mostly focused on design and development for high-end to contemporary New York brands such as The Row and Sanoe among others. Specifically, I served as the Designer and Development Consultant for Sanoë, responsible for advising on everything from concept to production of garments for the brand’s debut collection. Sanoë’s debut collection was featured in major publications such as Vogue, ultimately making it a huge success for the brand.
I was later offered a full-time position with Rag & Bone, a highly reputable brand that has been part of the New York contemporary fashion scene for almost two decades. Over the past 10 years, I’ve held various critical positions within the brand. Currently, I am the Design Director for womenswear. In this role, I’ve led the development of the brand’s most notable collections, which have been showcased on the runway for NYFW and featured in major publications including Vogue, Marie Claire, InStyle, ELLE, and many others.
Furthermore, I have led the brand’s design team in developing garments worn by many public figures, including Cate Blanchet, Anna Wintour, Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, Kamala Harris, Kate Bosworth, Katie Holmes, Julia Roberts, Blake Lively, Rihanna, Margot Robbie, Emma Roberts, Kerri Russel, and more. It’s an incredible career and personal achievement to see these celebrities endorsing my work by wearing garments made from my designs.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Finding balance in the fashion industry can be challenging. Working a year ahead on many different seasons means being caught in the constant cycle of collections. Fashion and its business move fast, making it difficult for designers.
In contrast, I’m conscious of work-life balance, creating space for reflection and inspiration. Engaging in other creative outlets is very important to me, and this is something I’ve learned over time.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a Design Director, I oversee the design and curation of the womenswear collection. My role involves extensive research to create concepts and mood boards, developing color palettes, selecting fabrics, and designing and fitting garments. I collaborate closely with various creative teams, including stylists, product developers, pattern makers, technical designers, and merchandisers to support the development of the collection.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I find happiness in stillness and disconnecting, and this was forced upon us during the pandemic. I consider myself incredibly fortunate during that time, but the learning curve had never been deeper. The practice of patience was something that we were all collectively taught. I feel this lesson was of great benefit to the fashion industry, especially during that time.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Rag & Bone Fall 2023
Rag & Bone Icons Collection Fall 2022
Kamilla Harris- Rag & Bone Lexington Blazer & Poppy pant
Sienna Miller- Rag & Bone Faye Coat
