At 34, Nicolle faced a daunting diagnosis: melanoma. It was a wake-up call that revealed a gap in the market: the majority of UPF clothing was tailored for women over 55. This void ignited the spark for Ivy Coast. But while skin cancer played a significant role in shaping Ivy Coast's identity, it wasn't the sole inspiration behind her venture into women-owned fashion. Nicolle’s journey began long before, at 17, when she set out for New York City to pursue fashion at the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising. The world of fashion and design felt like home, and her ambitions for entrepreneurship burned brightly. Yet, her grandmother's untold story added depth to her aspirations. She, too, had a passion for fashion, earning a full scholarship to the Fashion Institute of Technology. However, societal norms stifled her dreams. In an era where women were pigeonholed into domestic roles, pursuing art and design was deemed impractical and her father demanded her study at secretarial school. Nicolle firmly believes in the power of women to excel in all facets of life. We can be nurturing mothers, devoted wives, and leaders in Fortune 500 companies. Yet, she also recognizes the importance of self-care and pursuing one's passions. It's in these pursuits that we find fulfillment and become better versions of ourselves. Welcome to Ivy Coast, where fashion, wellness, and modern feminism converge—a sanctuary where women can embrace their multifaceted identities with style and grace.

https://www.ivycoastcollection.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooNBFCKmpmsK5OxkjGMqAhTGGnVsjqdlbrTcs4AxBU_7GX9lpr2

Mary George Sowers is a CPA-turned-creative entrepreneur and the founder of two vibrant lifestyle brands: Mary George, a joyful and feminine clothing line inspired by interiors, and MG Textiles, a custom rug company offering made-to-order pieces designed to bring warmth and personality to any space. Originally from Snow Hill, North Carolina, Mary George has always had a love for fashion, interior design, and color. After years of working as a CPA, she took a leap of faith to pursue her longtime dream of creating a fashion brand that reflects her personal style. In Spring 2025, she launched Mary George, a line that blends her love of bold prints, timeless silhouettes, and the charm of Southern style. Whether designing clothes or home goods, Mary George's mission is to spark joy and help others feel good in the spaces—and styles—they love most.

Use code PREPPY10 for 10% off your order!

https://marygeorgedesign.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooKNePezUAjz_ESRubHfLB_WzSVrFttb-bxDSf1CYHDXeOLCYcn

It’s the summer of preppy! With preppy fashions all over the runways and on the racks of stores across the country, people are leaning into preppy hobbies like needlepoint, golf and mahjong and some of our favorite preppy brands resurfacing. Join me with #preppyauntie