Brand Review: Mara Hoffman

Something scary happened to me this year… I turned 30. There are a great many wonderful things about turning thirty and I’m not one to shy away from counting my blessings. But, I’m also not one to shy away from counting my years and oh my lordy, 30 just felt like a lot. I knew I needed a special dress to wear to the occasion. Not just any dress- this dress needed to make me feel all sorts of wonderful and accomplished and responsible and like I could crush adulting that day. And I knew exactly who to turn to…. Mara Hoffman.

To put it bluntly, Mara Hoffman just gets how to dress a woman. I think a big part of that stems from the fact that she has spent years and years designing bathing suits. She knows how to make clothing that is interesting and feminine (and maybe even a bit *sexy*) while also having a wow factor that simultaneously make the wearer feel absolutely comfortable.

I heard Mara Hoffman speak once on a panel on mindfulness in the workplace (totally normal) and I was struck by all the intention she brings to her designs. I didn’t know until that moment that it extended beyond considerations of how I felt in her clothing and continued deeper into considerations of how the clothing was actually made.

Like many in the industry, Mara didn’t know how harmful the production of clothing could be. Once she realized that there were options to do better, she went on a journey to figure out how to do it and start changing her brand. This vogue feature is a great look into the process of trying to change their brand from a conventional one to a sustainable one. They developed a manifesto of sorts, their operating guidelines which lay clear the principles of their business operations. They are focusing their efforts at present to make changes related to their materials and production. In terms of materials, Mara Hoffman is increasing their use of eco-conscious and sustainable materials. They are also changing the production of the collections by aiming to reduce their waste, to make more products in the United States, and to empower artisans in India, among other things. The brand is also making less per season, supporting the idea that we don’t need to inundate ourselves with item after item, but rather make a closet of staples.

Ultimately, I think a lot of how Mara speaks resonates with exactly what the Swoop is trying to do-- we just need to take the first step to try to a better. We won’t instantly be perfect. It’s a process of taking one step at a time from being a conventional consumer to a wiser one.

Plus, she made me feel like a million bucks on my thirtieth birthday.

ONE: Summer is officially in full swing today. If it was appropriate, I would have worn this adorable Blue Bathing Suit to work to combat the extreme mugginess. Made here in the USA using recycled nylon and spandex.
TWO: I need someone to throw a backyard BBQ and invite me but also promise that I won't spill anything on myself while wearing this sunny, summer perfect dress made from 100% organic linen.
THREE: As you know, here at the Swoop, we love versatility. And this wrap top embodies that to the nth degree. Woven by artisans in India, you could pair it over pants or a high waist skirt, but would also look smashing worn over a dress.
FOUR: Labeled as a cover up, but don't let that limit you. It would look great with the swimsuit above, but could also double for workday outfits with a cute sweater or summer strolls with my summer sneaks. This frock was also handwoven by Indian artisans.
FIVE: It would be a bit of a bummer for me to admit how many days I roll into the office wearing black pants. I love the idea of adding these to my arsenal for something just a little bit different-- the embroidery on the bottom adds a wow factor that is fun but not overwhelming for the fashion critics in my office.
SIX: This is called the Maui Print Dress. If I buy it, that means someone will magically whisk me away to Hawaii, right? This is so adorable, I think I might be willing to take the gamble.