She Left the Operating Room to Create Wearable Art
Molyan founder Molly Dery on color, creativity, and the artists, designers, and makers currently inspiring her.
It’s no wonder designer Molly Dery of the lovingly hand-stitched, Austin-based brand Molyan pursued the launch of a product so full of vivid colors: She’s made a (different) living out of easing people’s minds into blank spaces as a nurse anesthetist.
But after 13 years in the operating room, she wanted “less black and white, less right from wrong,” and more creativity, so Molyan’s trademark embroidered jacket — worn by the likes of the Pretty Woman herself, Julia Roberts — was born. She only produces one new product a season, focusing on the craftsmanship of the chainstitch, a type of sewing technique that uses a series of interlocking, loop-like stitches.
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Raised in El Paso, Molly — short for Molyan, which was also her great-grandmother’s name — found inspiration in the vibrancy of the Southwest, including neon signs, desert sunsets, vintage Western wear, and “day trips into Juárez to explore the markets.” The concept, she says, really came from wanting to “blend bold geometric design, abstract art influences, and color in a way that still felt timeless, unexpected, and unique.”
Indeed, these stunner pieces are meant to be collectible heirlooms that people can wear for years and eventually pass down. I don’t have one yet because I can’t decide on a color and design combo; they are all so good. Maybe I should ask Lily what she likes, as she very well may end up with it someday!
“At its core, Molyan is about joy, individuality, and not being afraid to be seen,” says Molly.
I can get behind all of that.
Who are some of your style inspirations and why?
My 9-year-old daughter, Billie, is my modern-day muse! She instinctively pairs unexpected color combinations and is unafraid to say no to pieces I’m considering, which often pushes me to see things differently. I believe her eye comes from both sides of the family, carried down through generations. My mother’s mother, the brand’s namesake, was always impeccably styled. Molyan was chic, classic, and intentional. My father’s mother, Pat, leaned in the opposite direction in the most inspiring way: bold, expressive, and over-the-top, with a love for statement pieces, fur, silk, and color. My own mother, Shelley, brings a sophisticated bohemian sensibility, grounded in a deep appreciation for color, ease, and comfort. Molyan is a compilation of all of these style influences.
What are some pieces in your wardrobe that feel most like you?
They’re always the colorful ones. Rachel Comey has long been one of my favorite designers. I’m endlessly inspired by her sculptural shapes, unexpected fabrics, and the way her pieces feel both artistic and wearable at once. KAMPERETT can do no wrong in my eyes. Silk organza says it all. Their pieces feel whimsical, effortless, and incredibly thoughtful. Showstoppers! I also find myself reaching for Natalie Martin post-collaboration. She has beautiful silhouettes, vibrant prints, and pieces that transition so seamlessly through every season.
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