My First: How the Japanese Kimono Inspired the Designs of Eileen Fisher

And that’s true for the designer, who launched her clothing line in 1983. She had no experience or sketches, and signed up to attend a fashion trade show. Just a few weeks later, she had 12 pieces and an eponymous brand name and logo—all focused on a simple system of dressing that makes women feel confident. Now, over 30 years later, Eileen Fisher is sold in over 60 locations, annually pulling in over $500 million. For Resort 2018, as well, she’s worked new velvet pieces that are washable and bluesign certified—an ethically approved dye for sustainability.

Whitewall spoke with Fisher about how she first got started in fashion, and the very first shape she dreamed up.

WHITEWALL: Why did you begin designing?

EILEEN FISHER: I started the business for a very personal reason—I was having trouble getting dressed. My background was in graphic design, so I had an eye for simple shapes and how they work well together. In my mind, I kept seeing simple designs that used beautiful fabrics in great textures and colors. It was a system of dressing that allowed women to relax into themselves and easily put pieces together so they could focus on life.

WW: What was your very first creation? Tell us about that.

EF: My first design was a simple box top shape. I was drawn to the box top shape because of its architectural lines and the way it could easily be layered on top of a pair of pants, dress or skirt.

WW: Why fashion?

EF: I believe that good design is timeless and is a result of paying attention to what women want and need. You discover a certain freedom and confidence when you put on a garment that has been pared to its essence. I want the company to be known for clothes you don’t have to overthink and that feel amazing every time you wear them. I have always been inspired by the Japanese kimono—it is a shape that has not changed for thousands of years. I wanted to integrate that concept of simplicity and timelessness into my daily wardrobe.