Trish Wescoat Pound, the visionary behind the discreetly coveted New York fashion brand TWP, recently offered an insightful look into her professional journey and the ethos driving her label. From her industrious youth in Kansas, engaging in various odd jobs, to her impactful years with prominent American sportswear brands, Pound's career trajectory underscores a deep-seated passion for design. TWP, established in 2021, originated from a simple yet revolutionary idea: to reinvent men's shirting for women, a concept that has since blossomed into a comprehensive collection encompassing denim, belts, and suiting, now showcased in exclusive boutiques across New York, Aspen, and London.
Pound's early professional experiences were marked by a relentless work ethic, starting as young as 12 or 13. Her diverse roles, from mowing lawns and babysitting to washing dishes and waitressing, instilled in her a strong foundation. A pivotal phase in her career was her seven-year tenure at Theory, where she collaborated with Andrew Rosen. She credits this period in her late twenties with providing invaluable lessons that continue to inform her decisions in her fifties, particularly in navigating the complexities of the fashion industry.
Reflecting on her career, Pound acknowledges a challenging past role that, despite its difficulties, became a profound learning experience. She views it as a period of significant growth, teaching her what she would not repeat and how to approach situations differently. A key motivation during this time was to demonstrate resilience and the ability to rebuild to her daughter.
Her fascination with fashion evolved from a broader interest in design. Initially, her drive was to craft environments that evoked comfort and security, a sentiment that subtly transferred to her approach to clothing. Her childhood obsession with paper dolls further hinted at her innate inclination towards visual aesthetics and sartorial expression.
The genesis of TWP was rooted in Pound's desire to simplify fashion. She aimed to take classic silhouettes like shirts, blazers, and trousers and infuse them with a contemporary, cool sensibility. The brand launched with a focus on shirts, emphasizing impeccable fit and versatility, with meticulous attention to details such as cuff functionality and button placement. Her long-standing admiration for women wearing men's shirts served as a core inspiration for the brand's initial direction.
Among TWP's standout creations, "The Next Ex" shirt holds a special place. Born from the simple idea of cropping an oversized men's shirt, it quickly became a hero product. The brand also found success in denim, which Pound considers an essential element of American sportswear. Popular denim styles include "The Tiny Dancer" and "The Kent Street." Additionally, TWP's belt collection, launched a year prior, has garnered significant acclaim, offering unique options beyond conventional black belts. The "Double Take" blazer is another highly successful piece, reflecting the brand's commitment to distinctive and well-crafted designs.
TWP caters to a discerning clientele who prioritize quality fabrics and a flawless fit. Pound emphasizes the brand's dedication to blending luxury with comfort, ensuring that clients not only look good but also feel at ease in their attire. The brand's focus extends to utility, integrating practicality into stylish designs.
The opening of TWP's new stores in London and on Madison Avenue represents a significant milestone. Pound stresses the importance of creating warm, chic, and sophisticated retail environments that complement the clothing without overshadowing it. The stores feature natural elements like wall-to-wall seagrass and incorporate art from Onna House, a gallery dedicated to women artists. This collaboration underscores TWP's commitment to supporting female creatives and integrating art into their brand identity. The London store, situated on Bruton Street in Mayfair, and the Madison Avenue location both boast unique design elements, including Swedish farm tables and prairie-inspired garden installations, along with custom hand-woven tapestries, enhancing the immersive shopping experience.
Trish Wescoat Pound's journey is a testament to perseverance and a clear vision in the competitive world of fashion. Her ability to transform personal experiences and a keen eye for design into a thriving brand, characterized by its dedication to quality, comfort, and sophisticated simplicity, continues to resonate with a growing global audience. The expansion into new retail spaces in iconic fashion hubs further solidifies TWP's position as a distinctive voice in luxury apparel.
