A montage of Michael and her scarves throughout the years.
Throughout history, many strong and admirable women have inspired us with iconic fashion. Katherine Hepburn was known for her trademark wide-leg trousers. Jackie O. never left home without her oversized sunglasses. And, Michael Saunders is recognized far and wide for her stylish scarf collection. In our latest Saunders Story, Michael shares in her own words the history of her signature collection.
"When I got a real job out of college and had really no money - and I have to stress, I’m not saying 'poor little me' because we all felt we were so rich but really, we were of very modest means. And my mother also, not only was she an artist, but she sewed and so she said ‘Michael, buy the most expensive jacket you can afford. I will make skirts for you of different colors but then you’ve got to change the look so you need to find an accessory you are comfortable with. You can try kind of beads.' (Well, I couldn’t afford good beads and I didn’t want cheap beads,) 'pins, hat...' Well, it finally was scarves. Because she happened to have scarves. My aunt had scarves. So scarves were an easy thing to build a collection of. So I began changing the look of my one jacket, and then the two jackets with difference scarves, so I could dress it up or dress it down. And I really don’t even go to the exercise class, or the grocery store without a scarf.
I think one of the most touching stories - because I was raised in a family that created a family feeling from everyone they touched. And everyone loved to be in our house. I tried to create that kind of company. So, my house burned to the ground. And the first thing that was delivered to me and this was after I had the company. It was about (I don’t remember dates of unpleasant things) but it was about 1998. And the first thing that arrived was a huge basket where everyone in the company had contributed a scarf. So although I lost everything, I had a basket of scarves. So it was, to me, symbolic of the family we had created, Michael Saunders & Company."
We asked Michael for her top tips on her notable neckwear and here's what she had to say:
Michael Saunders shares her scarf secrets.
What are some of your favorite brands of scarves? MS: The brand is not as important as the design, the colors and the feel of the fabric. What is your preferred way to wear a scarf? MS: I can tie a scarf in as many ways as nautical knots are tied. The way I tie a scarf depends on the outfit, the size of the scarf and my mood when I add it as a favorite accessory. Do you have a special system to hang your scarves in your closet? MS: I arrange them by color, texture, fabric and size. Where do you find some of your favorite scarves? MS: Anywhere and everywhere in the world as I travel. I always have an eagle eye out for the unusual. What advice do you have for someone who is just starting out on their scarf collection? MS: Choose carefully. Choose ones that complement your coloring, your wardrobe and give you pleasure.
Inspired and feeling fashionable? Here are 18 Ways to Tie a Scarf.
Then check out our other Saunders Stories from Michael and Drayton:
Introducing Saunders Stories: The Beginnings of Michael Saunders & Company A Very Magical Spot: Growing up on Longboat Key Where to Build: Growing the Divisions of Michael Saunders & Company Woven into My Essence: An Entrepreneurial Spirit Michael Saunders & Company: Your Local Connection to the World of Real Estate The Difference We Make: MSC in the Community
