Mikylah Jeter: From Dreams to Design
22-year-old California-based, Mikylah Jeter, handcrafting each piece to redefine her brand “Miserere”.
At the crossroads of California dreams and East Coast ambition stands Mikylah Jeter, a 22-year-old fashion designer. Born in the sun-kissed landscapes of California, Mikylah's journey, like her creations, has undergone a transformative evolution. From the inception of her brand in 2020 to the recent rebranding under the name "Miserere", Mikylah's story is one of resilience, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to the craft.
Mikylah's entry into fashion was not just a career choice; it was a rebellion against the ordinary. Unwilling to succumb to the monotony of a 9-5 job or the confines of traditional education, Mikylah discovered her passion for fashion. Not lured by the glitz of high-end designer trends, she found her true calling when she laid her hands on a sewing machine. Her love for creating the unseen, the unique, became the driving force behind her brand.
In the realm of Miserere, Mikylah defies the conventional norms of dictating brand identity. Rather, she extends an invitation to observers to interpret her creations through their own lens. Uniqueness, top quality, fine details, and an unyielding work ethic define the core values of Miserere. Mikylah's prowess lies not just in her ability to handmake pieces with a singer sewing machine but in the spontaneous creation process—no designs, no sketches, just an instinctual feeling translating into wearable art. As Miserere grows, so does the evolving story it tells.
The decision to rebrand is significant. Could you share the motivations behind your choice to rebrand, and how has it shaped the trajectory of your brand?
I chose to rebrand because when I first started my business, I selected a name I obtained from a dream I had (Los Angel). It took me far, for sure! Everything was falling into place, I had celebrities, youtubers, and influencers wearing my garments. However, as I continued to grow, I felt more disconnected from my brand due to the name and the pieces I was producing. I felt like the name kept me in a box. Yes, it was doing fine and bringing in money, but my brand meant way more to me than that. The name I had and the exact items I made weren't me anymore. It took me a while to come to terms with that because I knew rebranding is a huge step and could MAKE or BREAK you. But I decided to go through with it and changed my name to 'MISERERE'. I fell in love with this name, it's so different and never heard of. Even though people have a hard time pronouncing it, that’s what makes it unique. Just think of the name 'Balenciaga'—different, and soon my brand name will be understood just like theirs. I also started making pieces that resonated with me and my actual style.
Handmaking each piece is distinctive. Can you elaborate on the craftsmanship involved and the meticulous process behind creating your products?
Handmaking is a process. I have always been an upcycle type of designer. A huge shoutout to those making garments from scratch using patterns. Being an upcycling designer means taking old or discarded garments/materials and transforming them into a fashionable piece. Handmaking helps you get out there, but it is time-consuming. Sourcing fabrics, cutting out patterns, distressing, hand-dying fabrics, sewing for hours, etc… These are just some of the basics that come with handmaking a garment. I take my absolute time when creating all my pieces. I prefer to do that to ensure my customers enjoy and love the garments they receive. Ever since I rebranded, I started putting more time into the sewing machine, making sure I added in the smallest details that people probably wouldn’t even notice just glancing at it. But if you sit back and analyze the garments I make, it would explain the price.
Innovation is key. Can you share specific instances where your creations has taken an innovative approach?
Innovation is most definitely key, especially in fashion. We need new and original products in the fashion industry. The jeans I handmake are all original designs thought of by me. My brand is all about making unique and never-seen-before garments. I would be able to answer this question way better in 2024 when I start dropping garments that will be mind-blowing if this isn’t already blowing your mind.
“I am not at my full potential with my brand yet, and I can’t wait to see the change I make in the fashion industry.”
SPLAT DENIM
DENIM HANDMADE PHONE CASES
BLACK NET JORTS
GAUZE DENIM
“This disasterful piece is handmade by MISERERE. Using gauze fabric make a web-like design, completed with zigzag stitching.”
What is your definition of the Underground?
“To me, underground means upcoming talented individuals soon to become mainstream.”
