Jill McGowan
Jill McGowan is the visionary behind her namesake brand that has not only withstood the test of time but continues to evolve with each passing era. With a background in men's shirt design, Jill entered the world of women's fashion driven by a passion to elevate the quality of women's wear. Now, after 30 years, her brand remains a beacon of enduring style embraced by a new generation.
Tell us a little bit more about the brand. How did you get started?
I started as a patternmaker in the men’s shirt industry and I was shocked at how the quality of womenswear compared. I became passionate about upping the game in women's fashion to make pieces that last. Fast forward 30 years, and it warms my heart to see the brand still going strong, embraced by a whole new generation. It's like a journey through time that never gets old.
What are you known for?
My first line in 1994 was a series of white shirts. I took all my experience in menswear and integrated it into great-quality women’s shirts using Italian textiles. Back then, most brands catered to an attitude that women shopped on a whim and were quick to discard clothing while men shopped much less frequently and therefore expected more from a quality perspective. I couldn’t find anything that catered to women like me who preferred pieces that lasted, so I started making them.
How do you see women’s fashion evolving?
I think we will continue to embrace a less is more approach. People are beginning to feel more strongly about sustainability and we are only now starting to understand how much waste is created from fast fashion. As consumers become more responsible about their consumption, they will want to invest in higher quality clothing that stands the test of time.
What are the biggest trends for this upcoming season?
For us, it’s less about trends and more about those coveted pieces that people will have for decades. From my niece swiping pieces from her mom’s closet to college students’ thrift shop finds to customers showing up in my store wearing items over ten years old that are still holding up and wearing well.
What are your favorite pieces in the collection currently and why?
The Astrid easy-cut shirt looks amazing on women in practically every size. It's structured enough to enhance your shape and casual enough to settle your mind - helps you feel put together and ready to go. Astrid stands on its own as a jacket in some fabrics and a shirt in others.
What’s the one thing that you think every woman should have in their closet?
A white shirt for several reasons but mainly because it’s forever classic and always easy to wear. From a corporate look to a beach coverup and everything in between, a white shirt is always crisp and will make you feel put together.
You’re based in Portland, Maine. What do you think defines New England style?
New England is an aesthetic that marries practicality with fashion forward. New England women have great style but it’s never over the top. It’s that old Yankee ingenuity - fashion that works for you, understands the elements, and stays looking great for generations.
Jill McGowan’s latest collection can now be found at The Trunk Show. All Jill McGowan products are made in the USA and Jill and her team operate Jill McGowan, Inc. from their corporate office in Portland, Maine.