I am a fashion designer based in New England, with an undying passion for making the most of any moment. My mission is to create exceptional and innovative fashion pieces that empower individuals to express their true selves. My designs meld the gothic spirit with modern stylistic details. Through fashion, I discovered my voice, and I want to help others do the same.
I never felt like I 'fit in'. And honestly, I am so grateful for that. My energy, passion and love for life always seemed louder than others. And I knew it wasn't something to be silenced. Fashion was always a creative outlet for me; a comforting place where I felt free to be myself and dress up even if I wasn't leaving the house. My love for fashion evolved into a passion for sewing when, one day, I visited a friend in elementary school. I couldn't help but notice a gentle, rhythmic whirring across the hall. I peered curiously into the room where the sound was coming from, and immediately became entranced. A double-door closet brimming with colorful fabric, a carpeted floor covered in thread, and an early 2000s rock playlist blaring as my friend's mother stitched away on her sewing machine. From that moment, I spent countless hours teaching myself how to hand-sew, and eventually got my first sewing machine. I dreamt of one day being like the contestants on Project Runway, and having my own fashion brand.
What are you even going to do with a fashion degree? You'll never make it in that industry.
This little voice in the back of my head ate away at me as I grew older. Teachers, guidance counselors, family members constantly asked, "what are your plans for your career?" And, out of 'practicality' and because of the voice in my head, I replied: 'Accountant. Marketing Agent. Scientist.' I pursued paths that weren't my passion, but that I did well enough with and settled on as 'practical'. But, my desire to sew and create was never quelled. I had a thirst, a hunger for artistry, that I couldn't satisfy with these placeholder career paths.
I graduated high school in 2020 (yep, I had a COVID graduation), and started online classes towards a degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology at the University of Rhode Island that same Fall. In the first semester, I knew that path was not where I was meant to be. So, I went back to my roots. After some research, I found a fashion program at my University and immediately switched my major to Textile Marketing (to the dismay of many people who thought I was making the wrong decision).
Not only was I happier in my new program, but I gained a diverse set of skills in design, art and textile science, and business. In May of 2023, I graduated Summa Cum Laude with my B.S. in Textile Marketing, and received the University Academic Excellence Award for outstanding academic performance in my degree program. I'm not sure where I would be had I remained in my initial program, but I do know that I am happier, and more proud of myself than ever that I followed my dreams, veered from the idea of 'practicality' over passion, and did not settle for less than I deserve.
In the words of Coco Chanel, "To be irreplaceable, one must always be different." This is a value that I live by, and is the premise for the vision of Hannah Michelle. I do not believe that anyone should minimize themselves, their spirit, or their inner light. You deserve to shine, to live boldly, by your own rules. Life is too short to spend it as a character in someone else's story. I am building the life of my dreams every day through hard work, dedication and irrefutable passion. Fashion has become my voice, and sewing; my superpower. I am here to inspire others to be fearless, to stand out, and to shatter boundaries. Let's embrace our differences, stand beside one another, and lift each other up. Fashion is so much more than an outfit on a runway. It is a statement, a community, and it is powerful enough to make change. Together, we will redefine the fashion industry and leave our mark on the world.
Spring Splash Fashion Show
Audience Favorite Award during the Annual Student Fashion Event 'Spring Splash' held at my alma mater, University of Rhode Island, in April 2023
University of Rhode Island 'Rhody Today' Article
Senior Hannah Hardy has two pieces in the show. Her designs are framed around the Red Dress Project, a Canada-based initiative created to call attention to the growing number of Indigenous women who are missing or have been murdered...
Textiles Seminar 2023: Good Design Means Good Business
During Hannah's final semester at the University of Rhode Island, her summary article detailing the creative and professional journey of guest speaker and business owner Katie Imswiler, of IMSY Swimwear, was elected to be published to URI's Digital Commons.