Our ethos at DC Style Factory is to slow down, shop quality over quantity, and buy with intention. When I first met Mimi Miller back in 2017, we connected instantly because these same ideals guide her designs. After completing her bachelor’s degree in fashion design from Marymount University in 2015, she launched her namesake brand the following year. She started it as a made-to-order business while she hunted for a full-time job. Four years and five collections later, her brand continues to grow with two seasonal collections a year plus her year-round Core Collection of wardrobe staples including simple v-neck tops, classic a-line skirts, and more. She also recently moved into a new studio space in Falls Church, Virginia.Environmental factors are also always at the forefront of her designs. For example, her first collection was made from nylon sourced from degenerated wood pulp. But, at the end of the day what drew me to Mimi’s clothing is that they were just plain good. I started pulling from her for clients right from the beginning and her pieces are still in their closets and in regular rotation. Her work has a special simplicity and meticulous attention to detail that I don’t often find in clothing today. There is an easy, fluid drape to her pieces that skim the body in the most comfortable and flattering way. Her designs are unfussy, which make them easy to reinvent with different layers, accessories, and shoes.I purchased one of my favorite clothing pieces from her 2017 fall collection. It’s a yummy long t-shirt dress. It is one of my most worn pieces for spring, fall, and winter. We later partnered -- with the Shoe Hive as well -- for a capsule wardrobe workshop in Arlington.  When you meet Mimi, it is no surprise that she is the woman behind these quietly chic, cool, minimal clothing designs. She is calm and focused, but always with kindness and humor. We are so fortunate to have her stylish clothing and her socially conscious point-of-view right in our backyard. 

Mimi is wearing Faux Leather Headband by Lele Sadoughi and Isadora Blouse by Ulla Johnson, available at The Hive.A-line flannel midi skirt by Mimi Miller.

ABOUT YOU

How do you spend your time? Most of my time is spent working on Mimi Miller Womenswear and doing yogaNeighborhood: I live in ManassasWhat would surprise people about you? I’m African American - most people look at me and only see my caucasian and asian ethnicity but I’m African American too!You’re a superhero: what’s your superpower? The ability to make clothes super quickly - eliminating the issue of ethical fashionFavorite cocktail: I don’t drink alcohol but I’ll take a virgin anything!Last book read or movie seen: Knives OutGuilty Pleasure: Watching reruns of Keeping up with the KardashiansPhrase you overuse: Is it from Whole Foods?Facebook or Instagram? Instagram by far!Latest binge-watch: The Handmaid’s TaleBucket list travel destination: MoscowIf you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Coffee  

FASHION

Define your style in three words or less: Refined, effortless, neutralThe go-to piece in your wardrobe: Spring/summer: white tee shirt; fall/winter: black turtleneckFavorite trend ever: Big sleeves that are tapered at the wristFavorite current trend: Midi skirts + knee high bootsBeauty product you can’t live without: Glossier HaloscopeFavorite fragrance: Wildflower by KuumbaHeels or flats? Heels 

HOME

Favorite room in your home: My bedroomAntiques, modern, or a mix? MixLast item bought for your home: West Elm dresserNext planned purchase: Minimalistic wall artFavorite way to entertain: Host a meal, usually dinnerClutter-free or well-lived in? Clutter-freeWallpaper -- yes, totally modern or no, so dated: Yes, totally modern  

FITNESS

Your go-to work-out: Power yogaMost fun way to exercise: Indoor cycling at ZengoCycle or Soul CycleGroup exercise or solo: GroupFitness goal: Be strong + healthyProudest fitness achievement: Being able to do a handstand in yoga                

ALEXANDRIA

Favorite spot in Alexandria: The waterfront with a coffeeLast purchase in Alexandria: CoffeeBest coffee / happy hour / date night spot: Dolci Gelati for coffeeFavorite charity: Alzheimer’s AssociationFavorite annual Alexandria event: First Night Alexandria