Bio -
Interview -
Please share a bit about your journey to embrace fashion design as a career. Looking back, were there any early signs fashion would be your future?
I’ve always been drawn to fashion, and considering that my sewing journey began at just six years old, the early signs were definitely there. As I grew older, fashion became a really important form of self-expression, but I often couldn’t find what I was looking for in stores. In high school, my interest in vintage and historical clothing really began, which ultimately brought me back full circle to my original love of sewing. I realized there was nothing stopping me from creating the pieces I felt most connected to, and that’s when pursuing fashion design began to look like a genuine path for my life and career!
How did you learn your skills?
My grandmother first started teaching me to sew when I was about six years old, so in a way I have her to thank for this whole journey. In high school I began to delve into the world of garment construction, and for many years I was purely self taught. Ultimately after graduating, I would come to Vancouver and begin studying Fashion Design at the Blanche MacDonald Centre! It was very important to me that I round out my skills and have some genuine training in patternmaking and construction. This was hugely impactful in elevating the quality of my work, and in confirming to me that fashion really is the world I am meant to be a part of.
As a designer, I’m drawn to a sense of strength and resilience, often inspired by powerful women throughout history. My work is currently focused on womenswear, inspired by influential female figures—specifically Joan of Arc in this collection. I design for a woman who resonates with the energy that such characters exude: confident, self-assured, and unafraid of contradiction. Aesthetically, my work explores juxtaposition, blending romantic, traditionally feminine elements with more rugged, assertive details. Ainsley McPherson as a brand represents the embodiment of that duality. I aim to create pieces that feel empowering and expressive, building looks that truly allow the wearer to inhabit their own strength and confidence.
What comes easiest for you as a designer? What is hardest?
I have come to realize that I tend to lean towards a more intuitive design process as opposed to a strict, pre-planned one. I really try to prioritize allowing my ideas to evolve organically throughout the process. From the initial concept sketch to the final piece, my looks can sometimes undergo some pretty major transformations. I have learned that I sometimes find my best work when I try not to adhere too rigidly to my own predetermined plans. Some of the concepts I am proudest of have come from that exploration and experimentation process.
Where do you find inspiration for new collections? How important is colour to your design process?
I find inspiration almost instinctively, it’s really quite impossible for me to move through the world without collecting references. I’m constantly drawing from a range of sources, from fashion history to music, film, and cultural history. Colour plays a deliberate role in refining my vision. Especially because I tend to utilize inspiration from vastly different places, I often work within a bit more of a restrained palette. For this collection, I’ve focused primarily on black, white, and silver, while the last centered on black, white, and red. I find that using limited colour can help me make a strong, cohesive statement with a collection.
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My Fall/Winter 2026 season collection is entitled Veil of Iron. It draws inspiration from the enduring mythos of Joan of Arc, informed by the defiant elegance of 1990s fashion and culture. The collection explores a dichotomy of sanctity and defiance, pairing elements of armour with feminine silhouettes. Chainmail textures, structured denim, delicate lace, and bridal references coexist in a palette of jet black and soft ivory. Exposed undergarments and 90s-inspired streetwear silhouettes are juxtaposed with romantic veils and sculptural corsetry. Forged by the duality of strength and softness, Veil of Iron presents a modern heroine—armoured, unapologetic, and completely self-defined.
It’s hard to say which look could be my favourite! I am extremely excited to see my chainmail pieces on the runway, as learning that technique was a big step that I am very proud of. As well, I am so looking forward to the world seeing my bridal look which is directly inspired by my own grandmother’s wedding dress.
Readers can check out my website ainsleymcpherson.com to see the pieces available for styling pulls, and pieces for sale coming soon!
What's next for you as a designer and your brand?
I’m mostly focused on continuing to refine and evolve my vision for the brand. Right now, that means developing future collections that allow me to continue the concepts I’m exploring, and building on the work I have already shared.
Links -
Website - www.ainsleymcpherson.com
Instagram - @ainsley.mcpherson
TikTok - @ainsley_mcpherson
Youtube - @ainsley.mcpherson
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