Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Marc Stein.
Hi Jonathan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I definitely have an abnormal origin story! While attending University for a degree in Mechanical Engineering, I discovered my love of fashion. It was my sophomore year waiting for class to begin when I pulled up YouTube. I came across a 1990-something Alexander McQueen runway video. It piqued my interest so much that I knew that this is what I really wanted to do with my life from there on out. Soon I began to teach myself how to design and sew and about a year later I put together my first make-shift collection and entered a local fashion event in Columbus, Ohio. I received such positive reviews that someone from LAFW (Los Angeles Fashion Week) contacted me to showcase my work out west. Shortly after, a scout for the notable NYFW saw my work and asked me to show in NYC! I was astounded and put together what really was my first well-made collection. Things really snowballed and soon I began dressing stars and have built up to 100s of celebrity clientele and a resume of acclaimed work.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Of course not. Every person starting out has had obstacles to overcome when making their way to the top. I have faced both physical and mental struggles since I began my fashion designer career that have affected my journey. From not finding any clients, to not selling my designs, I have experienced it all. Dry spells are a major part of any creative industry, especially “designer’s” block. My biggest obstacle that I am still trying to overcome happened in October 2022. My father went back to Ohio to check on some rental properties he managed and was shot and murdered by one of his tenants. This was the most devastating thing that has ever happened to me. I could not work for months and had no creative ideas to speak of. Eventually I utilized my grief and decided to dedicate a piece in his honor and came up with The DAN/IEL; a convertible leather trench coat named after him with his image in mind.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Since my introduction into the fashion industry, I have always been obsessed with all things leather. I have dedicated myself to building expertise working with this medium. I try to incorporate variations of leather into all collections that I create for my brand. From my unconventional beginnings in the industry, to the way I go about creating new pieces, I believe my approach is unique vs. other designers.
Throughout my career, I have had many amazing and pivotal moments. From my first international show in Dubai and winning an award for best designer out of many famous luxury brands, to working with some of the top talent, celebrity clientele, and major publications, I have come very far and cannot wait to see what comes next! Whenever I work with anyone, I always want them to wear a piece and not only feel confident and beautiful, but also badass and powerful. I want them to leave my studio with a smile on their faces.
What’s next?
I have so many amazing projects in the works that I cannot wait to share with everyone. I recently small-batch manufactured my latest line JMS, which is finally available to the public. I have also been fortunate to gain some amazing new clients who will wear custom pieces designed and made by me on some high-class red carpets across the country. I hope to continue the expansion of my brand within the USA and internationally plus continue my work with some amazing talent.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jonathanmarcstein.com
- Instagram: @JonathanMarcStein
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JONATHANMARCSTEIN/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanmarcstein
