Why I Became a Fashion Designer—and Why I Chose Ethical, Sustainable, and Vegan Fashion

By Julia, Founder + Designer of Miakoda

From the time I was little, I was always making something—crafting was my favorite way to spend time. Whether I was knitting, crocheting, or beading bracelets, I loved creating things with my hands. Especially things that were beautiful and functional. I didn’t know it at the time, but those early projects were my first steps toward becoming a fashion designer.

That love for functional art is what led me to pursue a degree in fashion design at Parsons School of Design. It was during those years that a few big shifts happened in my life—I started practicing yoga and went vegan. At the same time, I was freelancing in the designer market and interning in the fast fashion world. And while I was grateful for the learning experiences, I started to notice things that deeply conflicted with my values.

The more I saw, the more uncomfortable I felt.

I saw how disposable the clothing was. I saw the disregard for the environment. I had to staple leather swatches to paper cards, and as a new vegan, that moment really stuck with me. There was a deep disconnect between the life I was trying to live and the industry I was working in. I knew I didn’t want to compromise my values for a career in fashion—and I didn’t want to keep participating in a system that felt quite frankly... messed up.

That’s when I made the decision to create something different.

I started Miakoda with the belief that fashion could be kind—to the planet, to people, and to animals. I wanted to make comfy clothing that was ethically made, sustainable, and completely vegan. I wanted to create clothing I would actually wear, clothing that felt good in every sense of the word. And most of all, I wanted to offer options to others who care—who are looking for comfort, style, sustainability, and ethics.

Starting Miakoda has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my life. I get to create every day. I get to stay true to my values. And I get to build something that I hope makes a small, positive difference in the world. Thank you for being a part of it.

With love,
Julia