Another edition of Maria Pinto’s Spotlight Series, In Her Own Words, is here. Each month, we feature the dynamic, stylish, and powerful women who inspire us daily.
This month’s spotlight features Maggie Gillette, Principal at The Curio and one of the founders of Chicago Fashion Vanguard.
SHOP THE LOOK: Camila Top | Chantal Skirt
What was your path to getting where you are today?
I have not had a traditional career path. I started out in education and nonprofits, but always wanted to do something in fashion. I started my own lingerie line in 2012 which took me to New York where I had the opportunity to work in nearly every facet of the industry—from PR to covering NYFW for a publication in the UK. The pandemic put a pause on my brand, and then my family brought me back to Chicago where I connected with Ian and the Curio.
I could never have seen the path that would lead me back to Chicago fashion, but it feels like just where I’m meant to be right now.
What are some challenges you've faced in your job or in your life, and how have you tackled them?
Returning to Chicago without any real plan for work or knowledge of what the fashion industry looked like here was a challenge. But I saw Curio's first event on Instagram and looked into what they were doing and thought it sounded great! I decided to take a chance and reach out to Ian and the rest is history.
Chicago has so many talented designers but we have an awareness problem and, at the Curio, we’re trying to change that. We have year-round programming to help connect Chicago’s curious consumers with our local fashion community. Right now we’re working on one of our most ambitious plans yet to raise the profile of Chicago fashion.
What hobbies, organizations, or philanthropies are you involved in?
I love being engaged in the fashion and arts community, so I’m a member of the Costume Council of the History Museum, Fashion Group International Chicago, Apparel Industry Board, Inc., as well as Gertie, a group that connects Chicagoans with the local arts scene.
I also love being involved at my son’s school and volunteering there. I’m always game for a good field trip!
How do you create a work-life balance for yourself?
I think so much of creating balance for me is about setting clear boundaries.
I keep my work hours within my son’s school hours as much as possible. When I pick him up from school I want to be available to spend time with him so I don’t take calls, meetings after 3. I cook and we have dinner as a family. My husband and I have a standing weekly date night.
It's also easy to get caught up in all the events in the fashion industry. I limit the events I go to and block out weekends for friends and family.
What do you love about being a woman? What is one of the biggest challenges? What brings you joy?
As a woman, I love being able to have fun with fashion and express myself through how I dress—we have so many more options there than men do!
I think balance is the hardest part. I want to do all the things and there are only so many hours in the day.
I am so fortunate that most things in my life bring me joy! I have a wonderful family and friends, a career I love, and a like-minded creative community.
SHOP THE LOOK: Roshan Mini Tunic
How would you describe your personal style?
I love classic lines paired with architectural shapes.
How are you dressing right now?
I’m keeping my days casual but pulled-together with great jeans and T-shirts or simple day dresses, and for evening I play with bold shapes and always, always a high heel!
I know I always feel better when I look pulled-together, so I like to dress up for work.
What is important to you when it comes to buying clothing?
I look to invest in high-quality pieces that last. I really avoid fast fashion at all costs.
How does your work style differ from your more casual or going-out style?
Quite often when I’m going out it is for work, so I need pieces that look professional and elevated, but also interesting—which is one of the reasons I find myself reaching for Maria’s pieces again and again. Day-to-day, I love easy, versatile pieces that can take me from meetings, to the playground after school pickup, to dinner out with my husband.
What are some of your favorite features of the Maria Pinto collection?
I love the sculptural style of Maria’s clothing. It always feels polished and put-together. It’s also incredible for travel since it doesn’t wrinkle and is so easy to care for.
SHOP THE LOOK: Esmeralda Jacket | Zadie Pant | Horizontal Belt
What are your favorite Maria Pinto pieces? Why?
I love the Zena Mini Tunic—it's perfect for so many occasions! And the Melek Pant is literally the only real pair of pants I own.
What are you watching, reading, and/or listening to right now?
My husband and I just started watching Luther, the British series from 2010 on the recommendation of my dad.
I’m reading The Great Believers by Chicago author Rebecca Makkai, who I recently met at the Chicago Literary Salon.
Best gift you've ever received?
A bracelet my mom passed down to me that was given to her by my grandfather. I wore it on my wedding day and smile every time I pull it out of my jewelry box.
Best piece of advice you've ever received? What wisdom would you tell your younger self?
My dad always said showing up is half the battle. I think there’s so much truth in that.
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there…Some of my coolest opportunities have been from reaching out to people I didn’t really know or volunteering for opportunities to try something new.