The Designer You Need to Know for Spring and Summer

Our Love for MDS Stripes

Happy Monday, all you colorful fashion lovers! We have a special treat for you today. Have you noticed a certain gentleman popping up here and there around here lately? Well, it’s time I formally introduce him! The “him” whom I’m referring to is Mark D. Sikes, designer of MDS Stripes.

Before we jump into our exclusive interview with him, let me share an anecdote that perfectly illustrates my love for MDS Stripes, his collection of American sportswear. When we were in Florida a few weeks ago, I was wearing this check sleeveless peasant dress as we finished art class at The Shard Shop and were walking into Black Bear Bread Co. for some delicious coffee, Maritere said, “you sure look comfortable in that dress!” I replied to her enthusiastically, “I am! If I could choose just one designer to wear everyday, I would choose MDS Stripes!” Indeed, the designs are classic and classy, yet modern and comfortable and wearable.

Before we jump into the interview, a little background regarding Mark D. Sikes… In case you’re not familiar, he is a highly esteemed, well known interior designer who has recently turned into a fashion designer as well. We’re thrilled to bring you this exclusive interview today!

MDS Stripes Check Sleeveless Peasant Dress / MDS Stripes Tiered Tank Dress and J.Crew Cardigan

An Interview with Mark D. Sikes

When did you first become interested in interior design and when did you decide it was what you were going to do for a career?

I have been interested in design as long as I can remember. When I was a kid and would travel with my mother, we would drive around and look at all the beautiful houses. I still enjoy this today. I started my design business in 2010.

If you had to describe your interior design style in three words, what would they be?

Classic, timeless, comfortable.

You have quite the portfolio of design projects! If you had to pick one, what’s been your favorite / most memorable and why?

It’s hard to pick just one. So many of my clients have become good friends. One of my first big projects was for a family in San Francisco that I had known for years. It was wonderful to see how someone you consider a good friend enjoyed the home we created for them.

More recently, you started an incredible apparel and accessories brand, MDS Stripes (we’re huge fans!) – what inspired you to do so? Did you always know you wanted to get into fashion, as well as interior design?

I have always loved both interiors and fashion. I have collected Vogue magazines since I was a kid and have brought them all with me every time I move. I have quite the collection now dating back over 20 years. I started MDS Stripes because I have a love of stripes…and I wanted to interpret them for women in a feminine way. I use fabrics from Italy that I personally love and have had my shirts made from for years.

In a short time your fashion brand has evolved from solely blue and white stripes to so much more – color, prints, and beyond – how would you describe your line to someone new to it?

It is a lot like my interiors….classic, feminine, and comfortable.

What’s your favorite piece you’ve designed for MDS Stripes, to date and why?

I think the yellow eyelet dress from the new collection might be a favorite. I love the color and it’s very feminine and beautiful.

What’s next for Mark D. Sikes and MDS Stripes? Anything you can share?

We have a new collaboration with Mi Golondrina coming this summer and we are very excited about it.