IN CONVERSATION WITH MOORE

Fashion industry often grapples with the tension between creativity and sustainability, but Andrea Moore emerges as a transformative voice as the founder and designer of MOORE. A streetwear brand that challenges norms and invites consumers to engage with fashion on a deeper level. With a foundation rooted in artistry, ethics, and a profound understanding of the human experience, Andrea’s background into the world of fashion is one characterized by thoughtful innovation and a passion for empowerment.

Raised in an environment brimming with artistic expressions—a blend of textile crafts, dance, and culture—Andrea cultivated her love for fashion as a profound means of communication. It was through her studies at elite design institutions that she refined her aesthetic vision, combining technical prowess with an unmistakable flair for storytelling. Each stitch and seam in her designs serves a purpose, reflecting not only her artistic vision but also her dedication to creating garments that resonate emotionally with those who wear them.

Launched in 2020 against the backdrop of a global crisis that reshaped consumer attitudes toward fashion, MOORE was Andrea’s answer to a call for change. She envisaged a brand that would do more than follow fleeting trends; she crafted an identity anchored in authenticity and longevity. MOORE champions a holistic approach to fashion, where each piece is thoughtfully designed with sustainable practices, embracing eco-friendly materials and ethical production methods. For Andrea, fashion is a responsibility—not just to aesthetics, but to the planet and the communities that contribute to its fabric.

At the heart of MOORE lies a powerful mission: to empower individuals to express their true selves through clothing that celebrates diversity and inclusion. Andrea understands that fashion is personal, and with each collection, she invites her customers to explore their identities, creating garments that adapt to a myriad of styles and occasions. The label’s designs, which seamlessly blend artistry and functionality, are not simply items of clothing; they are representations of personal stories, embodying a sense of freedom, confidence, and authenticity. As Andrea’s work garners recognition across both established and emerging fashion platforms, she remains committed to her core values. Her pieces have graced the pages of top fashion publications and walked the runways of prestigious shows, yet her focus always returns to community building. Through mentorship programs and collaborations with local artisans, she endeavors to uplift others and foster a new generation of designers who prioritize ethical practices and forge meaningful connections with consumers.

In this exclusive interview, we delve deep into Andrea’s creative process, her motivations, and the inspirations that inform her latest collection. We’ll explore her vision for the future of MOORE, dissecting how she believes the fashion industry can pivot toward a more sustainable and inclusive future while still delighting in the joy of self-expression. 

Andrea Moore’s journey is more than a fashion entrepreneurial success story; it is a clarion call for a more compassionate approach to the art of fashion. As the world grapples with unprecedented challenges, her belief in the power of mindful creativity serves as a guiding beacon for all of us. Join us as we uncover the insights, passions, and philosophies that propel Andrea and MOORE to the forefront of a fashion revolution.

Hello Andrea, we are glad to have you on board with 33 Magazine. Your journey has seen several relocations and changes in operation, such as moving from Portland to New York. Can you discuss the strategic decisions behind these moves and how each location has contributed to your brand’s growth?

In 2014, Portland offered creative autonomy and partnership with regional makers. Moving to NY in 2019—while pregnant—was strategic: proximity to sourcing, fashion hubs, and global audiences, all while operating from our home workshop. In 2024, relocating to Larchmont via The Makers NY bridged city reach and community engagement.

Starting a business in the competitive fashion industry comes with its own set of challenges. Can you share significant obstacles you faced while establishing MOORE and how you overcame them, and were there any particular mentors or resources that helped you navigate these challenges?

Early challenges: balancing in‑house production costs, navigating sustainability logistics, and raising three kids. I sought support via mentors in Portland’s maker community, fashion-school professors, and later Larchmont business founders who shared insights on retail operations.

The Makers NY by MOORE Custom Goods is an intriguing concept. How did this idea come about, and what role does it play in your business model and interaction with customers?

It literally began in a dream—an open‑studio space within a storefront. The Makers NY is community, retail, creative incubator. It’s where you see garments being born, not just sold—a touchpoint for transparency and creative dialogue

How has your approach to retail evolved since the launch of MOORE? In a climate where online shopping is prevalent, what strategies do you implement to maintain relevance for brick-and-mortar spaces like your shop?

Even with booming online, people crave tangible experience. That’s why we doubled down on open‑kitchen retail: customers choose fabrics, watch the production, meet makers—keeping brick‑and‑mortar relevant, meaningful, and memorable.

You’ve collaborated with many renowned brands like Nike and Rolling Stone. How do you cultivate these partnerships, and what experiences have stood out to you as particularly impactful?

We’ve worked with Nike, Adidas, Rolling Stone, Budweiser—mostly through organic connections: existing relationships, shared values, and sometimes mutual love of craftsmanship. One stand‑out experience: collaborating with Rolling Stone on limited‑edition merch that merged their cultural cachet with our gender‑neutral urban styles.

Reflecting on your experiences, how has community engagement shaped your business strategy, and what initiatives do you take to foster a sense of community within the spaces you operate?

The core of MOORE is invitation: workshops, panels, maker collaborations. Through The Makers NY we host guest artists, spotlight emerging designers (including my sister and mom), and share open‑studio hours—part of our mission to foster belonging and creative cross‑pollination.

Photography credits: @fannycortade @totalement.mode @isamarchabot

Official website of MOORE: https://wearmoore.com

Leave a comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.