In the wake of post-pandemic fashion, the cult brand in everyone’s wardrobe is Sea New York. Founded 16 years ago the brand boosts bohemian, contemporary fashion in a calm and classic way. When you think Sea New York, texture, print, detail and floaty shapes all spring to mind. This season the brand continues to refine its authentic tone of voice, which has undoubtedly become the hymn sheet for this summer. Join us for our next series with co-founder Monica Paolini as we discuss her space, the start of Sea, the inspiration and more.
Thank you for taking the time to talk with coggles today! Please tell us a little bit about yourself?
Hi, I’m Monica, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Sea.How big is the Sea team?
We are about 25 people at Sea between our studio, showroom, store and warehouse.Can you tell us a little bit about your office?
We have been in the same building on Canal St. since 2006. We were originally working out of the space on the 5th floor but in 2018 we moved into the ground floor space where we opened a small store. Our design studio and showroom live behind the store and the 5th floor is now Sean’s home.
What does a normal day at Sea look like for you?
Collection board reviews, fittings, production catch-ups, Instagram grid planning, and there’s always a little crisis management mixed with moments to laugh with the team. What's Sea’s heritage and how did you come to collaborate?
Sean started Sea in 2006 when I was designing at Betsey Johnson and I joined him a few years later. Since then, we’ve been running with it together, with tons of laughter and possibly more fights.Our friendship is really the genesis of the brand- we wanted to build something together.
What's important to the brand?
Keeping to our voice- it’s the most vital part of the brand. Every collection strengthens and refines our voice. We never lose sight of the customer as we evolve the brand.What was the inspiration behind the new collection?
As with many of our collections lately, through vintage, we like to look at crafts and traditions of generations past and find a way to enhance and modernize those techniques. Which is your favourite piece?
I love the Manuela puff sleeve dress. To me, the embroidery inspires dreamy travel. It is also reminiscent of more traditional crochet but comes to life in a bolder way. It’s a statement piece but easy to wear.Out of office hours, what’s your favourite thing to do?
To spend time with my six-year-old son Luca. 
FashionIn My Space With Maria Holzweiler
We joined Maria Holzweiler at the Platz, their hybrid Café Platz and retail store for the next series of 'In My Space'. Here's everything to know about their inspiration, sustainability and the latest collection.
