Mary Martin is as stylish as she is cool, as badass as she is inspiring. So it was no shock that she created her own label, BettyVonChic. A brand that was created after Mary had an epiphany in the middle of the night, BettyVonChic is a vintage brand of dreams.
Here, we spent some time with Mary to find out more...
Tell us about the journey that led you to launching your brand, Betty Von Chic…
I work in tech and had always wanted to start an ecommerce fashion business. The catalysts for launching Bettyvonchic were two things. I was searching for the perfect vintage inspired dress for a special event, and I quickly realised that there were very few vintage inspired designs readily available. The name BettyVonChic came to me in the middle of the night in 2018, and that is literally what prompted me to finally pursue my vintage inspired dreams.
Where did your love for vintage come from?
Out of every generation comes something timeless. I have always been drawn to the glamour of Old Hollywood and the gorgeous feminine fashion. In fact, I would have to say that the people of that generation have been some of the most remarkable, wonderful people I have ever known. My love for Vintage does not end there. Every era has something unique and special. I want to recreate and celebrate those timeless looks.
How do you want people to feel when they wear your clothing?
When I am wearing a great outfit, I feel unstoppable. Wearing something beautiful can really elevate your mood, outlook and confidence. Everyone deserves to feel that way.
What advice would you offer to aspiring fashion designers that are trying to launch a fashion brand?
It is not an overnight process. It takes time and small adjustments along the way. Even now, BettyVonChic continues to be fluid and improve and change. This brand is my creative outlet, and good things take time. Not everyone will see or support your vision, so if you launch any business, trust your instincts, and do not give up.
Of all of the things you have achieved, what’s your proudest moment and why?
Seeing my brand that started such a short time ago get published in various international fashion magazines is exciting, and knowing that others are relating to my vision is a great motivator.
Looking back since launching the business, is there anything you would do differently?
I would have to say I should have started my brand sooner. It is never too late to pursue your creative dreams.
Talk us through an average day in your life…
I wear many hats as a professional, so my days always start with coffee and a vision of how I want my day to go. As a career sales professional, I apply all of my daily corporate disciplines not only to succeeding in my corporate position but also in meeting my responsibilities as a business owner.
What do you do when you are lacking creativity?
I take time out to observe the world around me. Go to see some live music or go shopping,and that usually inspires me.
What is your go-to quote when lacking motivation?
Where attention goes, energy flows.
If you could have a celebrity wearing your clothes, who would it be and why?
This is a hard one. There are some amazing and influential younger celebrities as well as those from years past. A few that come to mind are Paris Hilton, Gigi Hadid and Debra Harry (Blondie).
Our readers love to travel, what destination is on your must visit list?
My favorite destination ever is Italy. In my travels there, I have somehow managed to miss Lake Como, so that is on my must visit list.
What does self-care mean to you?
Taking the time to slow down and enjoy exactly where I am.
Where do you see Betty Von Chic in the next 5 years?
Five years older and wiser, living her best life, and being recognized by fashion connoisseurs in every major travel destination in the world.
Where can people find out more?
IG @ bettyvonchic
www.bettyvonchic.com