Inspiring Conversations with Michelle Zad of Mizawe

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Zad

Hi Michelle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always had a passion for design, which led me to study Textiles and Apparel at the University of Texas at Austin. After graduating, I worked in design at Alfred Coffee for 5 years, eventually becoming the brand director, where I honed my skills in branding and creative direction. Combining my expertise in branding with my love for fashion, I felt inspired to create something of my own. In April 2022, I launched Mizawe, an LA-based clothing brand, to bring my creative vision to life.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Shifting industries was definitely a challenge, especially when it came to staying true to my values. Moving from brand direction to launching my own clothing brand meant navigating a whole new world, and I had to balance my vision with the realities of production. One of the biggest struggles was ensuring I never compromised on creating detailed, high-quality pieces and producing everything in Los Angeles. It would have been easier to cut corners, but I was determined to stay true to the craftsmanship and local production that are core to Mizawe.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Mizawe is a Los Angeles-based clothing brand that blends high-quality craftsmanship with a distinctive design. We specialize in creating detailed, limited-quantity pieces, all locally made in Los Angeles, with a focus on luxe trims, custom prints, and thoughtful embellishments. What sets us apart is the unique combination of my background in branding and design, allowing me to infuse each piece with a creative vision and attention to detail, ensuring no element is overlooked. Our seasonless designs are carefully constructed over months to create intentional, timeless pieces that are meant to be collected and cherished for years to come.

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
A surprising thing that most people might not know about me is that I’m also a freelance fashion stylist. While Mizawe is my primary focus, styling allows me to stay connected to broader fashion trends and aesthetics, which directly influences my design process for the brand. I find that balancing both roles helps keep me inspired and constantly evolving as a designer, which ultimately benefits the brand.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mizawe.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mizawe_

Image Credits
Dara Danenberg