YOLOTLI is a line of handmade clothing, accessory and home goods that combines art, style, and longevity to create timeless and responsible designs by promoting excellent craftsmanship, artisanal techniques, and the highest quality natural materials. A new addition to the brand includes a small collection of home goods and hand embroidered fine art pieces.

The collections are designed and meticulously hand crafted by owner and designer Nicole Kelly in her studio in Napa except for a few collaborations that were made with other Bay Area makers or artisan friends in Mexico. Each piece that leaves the studio has a handmade feel and tells a story.

Workspace

Nicole’s studio is situated in the backyard of her Napa home and is flooded with sunlight through its west-facing large sliding glass door. Outside her door and across a 15-foot redwood deck lies her husband’s studio, fine artist Mikey Kelly. The “his and hers” setup of their workspaces gives them enough space to work on their own projects and allows them to meet and brainstorm easily when they collaborate.

Production Model

Since the foundation of YOLOTLI in 2012 Nicole has focused on creating awareness of the positive impact a more conscious way of living can make. By implementing a small-batch production model for staple pieces in combination with made-to-order for new collection items Nicole hopes to help counter the still rising throw-away culture prevalent in the fashion industry. 

Tools

Nicole‘s most important production tools are her large pair of handmade Banshu Hamono tailor scissors, her traditional pleater and her large collection of embroidery needles and hoops. Although many elements of Nicole’s work rely on traditional tools and techniques, an industrial sewing machine and serger are implemented to increase efficiency. 

Materials

YOLOTLI collections are almost exclusively made of responsibly sourced prime quality natural materials that at the end of their lifecycle are biodegradable. Much of the material is deadstock fabrics that were production surplus from other designers or remnants. The brand sources sustainable fabrics like Loden wool, Khadi cotton and Ahimsa silk in addition to working with local producers for cotton, climate beneficial wool and naturally dyed fabrics.