Finding the right wardrobe presents challenges for many individuals, particularly within the plus-size community. Limited options in mainstream fashion can make personal style expression feel daunting. Innovators like Leila Kelleher, a pattern designer and educator at the Parsons School of Design, are changing this narrative. By embracing creativity and crafting her own garments, Leila exemplifies how fashion can serve as a powerful vehicle for self-expression.
Leila’s journey into sewing began during her high school years in Sydney, where she learned the fundamentals of creating various types of clothing, from tailored jackets to swimwear. Today, she proudly reports that approximately 75% of her wardrobe consists of her own creations, while she intentionally supports brands that cater to her body type for the remaining pieces.
Creating a personal fashion statement
Leila shares her weekly outfits, showcasing her unique style and the versatility of her designs:
Outfit 1: Custom creations
One of Leila’s standout outfits features a shirt and skirt she designed through her brand Muna and Broad. The shirt, named Lobethal, and the skirt, called Pyrmont, reflect her passion for creating clothing that fits and flatters her figure. She completes this ensemble with stylish accessories, including shoes from Hark Weber and socks from Bombas, topped off with a vibrant lip color from Glossier.
Outfit 2: Equestrian chic
Another favorite look includes pieces from Street & Saddle, a brand known for its inclusivity and customization options. Leila’s denim outfit showcases a shirt, pants, and a ribbon tie, paired with unique vintage sunglasses from Fabulous Fanny’s. She appreciates the brand’s commitment to crafting garments tailored to individual measurements, allowing her to feel both fashionable and comfortable.
The influence of education and creativity
As an educator at Parsons, Leila draws inspiration from the eclectic styles of her students. Each day resembles a runway show, filled with creativity and self-expression. She enjoys receiving compliments from colleagues who recognize her distinctive fashion choices, knowing they appreciate her style.
Embracing versatility
Leila expresses her love for garments that blur boundaries, such as a dress from Irregular Sleep Pattern. While marketed as sleepwear, its bold colors make it suitable for daytime outings. Her playful approach to fashion extends to her hairstyles and accessories, including a fondness for statement glasses from Fabulous Fanny’s and Opticianado.
Revolutionizing plus-size fashion
Leila’s academic background in biomechanics has significantly influenced her understanding of fashion. With a focus on how the human body functions, she challenges the traditional notions of the ‘good’ or ‘bad’ body that dominate the fashion industry. This perspective has led her to develop patterns that cater to a variety of body shapes, prioritizing fit and comfort.
In collaboration with like-minded individuals, Leila co-founded Muna and Broad, a brand dedicated to offering plus-size sewing patterns, and a space, in between, a luxury fashion line. The bomber jacket she wears is one of her designs, symbolizing her commitment to creating clothing that empowers individuals to express their unique identities.
Embracing creativity in accessories
Leila’s passion for creativity extends beyond clothing. A recent jewelry workshop she attended with her child resulted in her crafting a necklace from carabiners, reflecting her playful approach to fashion and accessories. She believes that a single statement piece can transform an outfit, just as her red bag does in one of her ensembles.
Leila’s journey into sewing began during her high school years in Sydney, where she learned the fundamentals of creating various types of clothing, from tailored jackets to swimwear. Today, she proudly reports that approximately 75% of her wardrobe consists of her own creations, while she intentionally supports brands that cater to her body type for the remaining pieces.0
Leila’s journey into sewing began during her high school years in Sydney, where she learned the fundamentals of creating various types of clothing, from tailored jackets to swimwear. Today, she proudly reports that approximately 75% of her wardrobe consists of her own creations, while she intentionally supports brands that cater to her body type for the remaining pieces.1
