MARION ZANIELLO

I began my career in fashion over 20 years ago after realizing how much I enjoyed making clothes.  I first earned my BA in Art History and French, with a minor in Dance, at Bowdoin College, then moved to San Francisco to attend FIDM's two year fashion design program. Initially nervous about my decision, I quickly understood how much I loved learning in such a tactile way. My first two jobs in the industry had me working in sample rooms alongside incredibly talented pattern makers, sample sewers, and cutters. Through them, I learned to breath life into an idea through draping first on a dress form and then sketching it out.  While this way of working has fallen out of favor, and sample rooms are being eradicated, I return to this approach of designing whenever possible.

I have worked for all sizes of companies, from start ups to large corporations. Each venue has taught me to view fashion design, and the industry surrounding it, through a different lens. This industry is a balancing act between art and commerce, between passion and a bottom line. I have acquired the skills over the last 20 years to manage this balance. 

I currently live in Park City, UT with my husband and our 3 kids and work on a contract basis.