Covid lockdown was a time we all won't forget but it gave you the moment where you founded your label at just 15, what was that time like?

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

And the fact that you taught yourself to design and sew is beyond incredible. What was the first piece you came up with?

My first original design was a white formal top. It had one shoulder, with a large bow tied on the alternate side of the hip. I loved that the design was asymmetrical and yet, visually balanced and cohesive.

Your decision to share your designs on social media opened up a new world of possibilities. Was there a specific moment that made you realize this could be more than just a hobby?

I realized that ELLIE GRACE could be a future career during my March 2021 drop when I sold out all of my 40 handmade shirts in under 4 minutes. I vividly remember this moment. I was sitting on my bed with eager anticipation for the 5pm launch. Less than one minute after the launch, “new order” notifications from Etsy came flooding in, filling me with delight and excitement for the array of possibilities that ELLIE GRACE could become.

You're now at Cornell studying business and fashion. How do you balance all these different parts of your life?

It is certainly not easy balancing everything, but I find that life is all about priorities – finding out what is most important to you, and making time for those things. In juggling the multitude of “to do’s” each day, I have learned to stay organized, be intentional with my time, and multitask. For example, during my walk to class I often catch up with my family, and while sewing, I listen to fashion and business podcasts to expand my knowledge in the fields I am dedicating my career to. In addition, I plan out my schedule

So excited to see you introduce your fourth collection, what can the lovely people out there expect to see?

Collection IV, launching on March 10th, is my debut collection as a Cornell student. Since the last collection in 2021, I have developed my business acumen, deepened my knowledge of the fashion industry, and refined my personal style. I want ELLIE GRACE and my designs to grow with me, and so, I have reimagined ELLIE GRACE to better reflect my evolving style and aesthetic. ELLIE GRACE celebrates the divine femininity of women, which Collection IV beautifully embodies with bows, laces, and fabric rosettes.

And what's the signature look of a classic Ellie Grace girl?

The signature look of a classic ELLIE GRACE girl is simple, elegant, and most importantly, one that she feels confident in. However, being an ELLIE GRACE girl is not defined by who she wears, but rather by her character and poise. The ELLIE GRACE girl is sophisticated, passionate, loving, and kind. She holds herself with strength and dignity, showing grace to those around her.

What do you hope for young women to take away from your brand?

I hope that through ELLIE GRACE, young women can connect and build meaningful, fulfilling, and joyful friendships. I want them to have a community where they feel loved and uplifted. One day, I would love to open an ELLIE GRACE store in SoHo, NYC, with a café and design studio all in one. A place where women can meet one another, enjoy a matcha latte, try on clothes, and watch new collections being designed in real time.