Yesterday I had the pleasure of touring Michelle Aquino’s lovely M dot Design Studio in the Hancock Park neighborhood of LA. I first met Michelle at the Shop It event at the W Hotel in Hollywood last month and fell in love with her beautiful designs and sweet personality.
It’s always a special treat to meet with local designers and learn more about what inspires them and how they got started in fashion. Michelle’s sewing career began when she was 8 years old and helped with the hems and veils at her Grandma’s bridal shop in San Diego.
Some of Michelle’s design inspiration comes from her love of exotic locations and classic literature and is evident in her beautiful fabrics and elegant styling. This Japanese silk dress in one of her signature styles is timeless yet modern and has the feel of a classic Halston piece.
All of Michelle’s M dot pieces are made by hand right here in LA and are usually limited to no more than three of each design. Michelle also showcases talented local jewelry makers and organic skincare products in her studio:
If you’re anywhere near LA please plan a visit to M dot Design Studio to meet with Michelle and see her beautiful handmade designs.