Fashion designer Sheridan French recalls a time when life seemed to move nonstop. In 2013, three years after the launch of her namesake clothing company, she found herself juggling her growing brand — which had products at 50 boutiques during the time — alongside her family, with a 3-year-old, 2-year-old, 1-year-old and another on the way.
But even good things can take a toll, French says.
“I was too stressed, going 90 miles an hour all the time. It was too much; I couldn’t do it,” she recalls. “I got to the point of being okay with saying I couldn’t do it.”
So, she stopped, stepping away from her business to focus on being a mom, which French says was “the best thing I ever did. As soon as I made the decision, it was a huge weight off my shoulders — because I knew it was ‘pause.’ It wasn’t ‘stop.’”
But now, after a five-year sabbatical, it’s time to press play again. In March, French relaunched her business, focusing on online sales through her website, sheridanfrench.com. Her new line, coming out in 2020, still reflects her signature aesthetic of bright colors and bold prints — but she’s also throwing in a few surprises, like sequined lips on a bright green dress.
“It’ll stay in line with my aesthetic, as far as bright colors, very wearable and classic,” she says. “But I definitely pushed the boundary a little bit to have more of an edginess that reflects me.”
French currently spearheads almost every aspect of her company, from hand sketching fabric patterns to working with manufacturers in India. While her line currently includes dresses, handbags and tunics, French eventually hopes to grow into a lifestyle brand that extends beyond clothing. Also on tap for 2020 is fabric sold by the yard, along with wallpaper. And, she hopes to explore pajamas and children’s clothing in the future.
“If the trend is going left, I’m 100 percent going to go right,” French says. “I love bright colors, being edgy, but being comfortable too."