We had the good fortune of connecting with DonMiguel Watson-Ellis and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi DonMiguel, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly, I never planned on having or starting my brand it just happened. I was making myself clothes and as time went on other people wanted me to make garments for them. At first, I was not even charging for my work simply because I enjoyed constructing a garment and was completely satisfied when the garment came out right. It clicked to start my brand when people were surprised I was not getting compensated for my designs so from that point on I started to build my brand, MisUndstd.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My brand MisUndstd is mainly centered around reworked denim and currently dressmaking. I am also testing out new different ways to fashionably create new silhouettes and constructions of denim and applying that to dressmaking. The proud moment of my brand is when I participated in my first pop up but, now I am most excited about my upcoming fashion show. Getting where I am today, definitely was not easy. For me, it was a lifestyle change, not only financially but mentally. Having to push through and find the motivation within yourself to believe in yourself and stop allowing your subconscious doubts and fears to direct you. Being afraid to fail, you are already failing because you haven’t tried, failing is a 50/50 chance.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to the overlook to see the skyline of the city. Go to tacos from Alquisiras Paleteria. Also, go to Coop de Ville for some drinks and to play some arcade games and duck bowling.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Other than my friends and loved ones, I would have to say my turning point of realizing that I am moving in the right direction by doing what I love. I would love to recognize Chi Ilochi with StylingbyChi. Also, I would love to shout out the group Hardy Studios for inviting me in and always encouraging and supporting me.
Instagram: @donmiguel.jr / @shopmisundstd