Madison Taylor, a former student of Hymers College (2016-2020), has embarked on an exciting journey into the world of fashion, launching her own clothing brand, Sylvia Lea. Her story is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams while balancing education and entrepreneurship.
After graduating from Hymers, Madison pursued her passion for writing and the fashion industry by enrolling at the University of Arts London to study Fashion Journalism. This academic path was solidified after a short course at Conde Nast College, which gave her a taste of the fashion journalism world. While her degree focused on journalism, Madison’s entrepreneurial spirit soon led her down a different, yet complementary, path.
Driven by a lifelong ambition to create her own clothing line, Madison decided to take the plunge into the fashion business during her second year of university. Balancing her studies with the demanding process of launching a fashion brand was no small feat. She navigated time zones and cultural differences, spending countless hours on calls with manufacturers worldwide, meticulously searching for the perfect partners to bring her designs to life. From initial sketches to final garments, Madison was deeply involved in every step, collaborating with design teams to translate her vision into tangible pieces.
The brand, initially conceived as White Couture – a name stemming from her fashion blog established during her time at Hymers – evolved into Sylvia Lea. This rebranding is a heartfelt tribute to her grandmother, Sylvia, and incorporates her own middle name, Leah, creating a personal and meaningful brand identity. The name Sylvia Lea embodies a blend of heritage and personal connection, setting it apart in the competitive fashion landscape.
Sylvia Lea’s debut collection, aptly named the “Entrance Collection,” further reflects Madison’s personal story. Each piece within the collection carries a name imbued with personal significance. “Entrance Collection” itself is a nod to Noosa Entrance in Australia, where she previously resided. Garments are also named after meaningful locations and loved ones, such as “Bayswater,” her university accommodation, and “Bernadette,” her other grandmother. This thoughtful naming convention adds a layer of depth and storytelling to the brand, resonating with customers who appreciate fashion with a personal touch.
Despite the demands of university and launching Sylvia Lea, Madison has maintained strong connections with her friends from Hymers College. These lasting friendships highlight the importance of community and support as she navigates her burgeoning career in Lea Fashion. Madison Taylor’s journey exemplifies the exciting intersection of fashion journalism and fashion entrepreneurship, positioning Sylvia Lea as a brand to watch in the evolving world of contemporary style.
