From Motherhood to Meaningful Design
Becoming a mom was the most beautiful and transformative experience of my life. It reshaped my priorities, deepened my perspective, and inspired me to show up in the world with even more purpose. While motherhood comes with its challenges, I’m grateful for every one of them, as they’ve strengthened my resilience in ways I never imagined. Through this incredible journey, Teal and Vine was born—a reflection of the confidence, joy, and effortlessness I want every woman to feel.
The Moment that Sparked the Idea
The seed for Teal and Vine was planted when I was expecting my son. I was walking along the beach - (my favorite place in the world), experiencing a quiet moment of solitude. Initially, I envisioned creating a breastfeeding-friendly dress, but over time, the idea evolved.
I remember brushing the thought off thinking it was just a passing thought. But as so many of us do, I let fear convince me that the idea wasn’t worth pursuing. I pushed away the thought, thinking it would just be a waste of time, effort and probably not amount to much.
But as time went on, the idea kept coming back, and it was a little louder each time.
After my son was born, my world was quite unlike I had known it to be before. Life was SO beautiful, but it was also a little chaotic, very sleepless, and a bit uncertain—especially as a first-time mom. My routine changed, my home changed, and, of course, my body had gone through so much change.
As I adjusted to this new reality, I found myself craving simplicity and intentionality in every part of my life—including how I dressed. The idea I had once pushed aside now felt more relevant than ever. With renewed excitement, creativity, and purpose, Teal and Vine slowly but surely started taking shape.
Creative Inspiration
As an artistic person, I’ve always enjoyed creative outlets, such as painting. I painted and made collages from my favorite magazines of what I wanted the brand to feel like. I wanted it to emanate feeling uplifted, happy, inspiring. With a nod to coastal elements – which I love.
I imagined a dress that wasn’t just beautiful but also functional—something I would have worn during pregnancy, after having my baby, and in the years beyond. Simplicity and ease being at the core of the foundation of the dress, to which you will also see in our thoughtfully designed logo.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name came to me naturally as teal is not only relaxing and invigorating, but it’s also a healing color that is typically associated with feminine energy. The vine represents sustainability. To honor this, our first Limited Edition Series was made from premium, upcycled material . The intention is also for all of the dresses to be chosen and worn time and time again, and to move with women at every stage of their life.
The Aha Moment: Bringing the Vision to Life
I owned a caftan that I adored, but I found myself wishing it had certain features. That’s when I started sketching out the adjustments I wanted to make. With the help of my mother-in-law who expertly sews, I brought my first design to life. I knew I was onto something when I slipped it on and felt instantly comfortable, confident, and free.
This journey was so exciting to me because it felt so authentic to where I was and what I would wear now, in the past, and again in the future. I was excited to bring elements of fun patterns and styles that I wasn’t finding and incorporating them with the new design.
Here is a picture of the first dress we created!
From Sketch to Reality: Creating the Endless Fit™ Caftan
Taking the next step felt daunting, but I was determined. I worked with a business coach, and step by step, I turned my vision into a tangible product.
The product evolved as I worked with the manufacturer to finally becoming the first line released: the Limited Edition Series.
Why Endless Fit™ Caftans Are a Game-Changer
The key feature that was always important to me to incorporate in all of our dresses, is our Endless Fit™ Design—adjustable interior ties that allow for a customizable fit. You can read more specifically about this at our blog here! Whether you're pregnant, postpartum, a busy mom, an entrepreneur, or simply someone who values effortless style, this dress moves with you through every season of life.
Key Benefits of the Endless Fit™ Caftan:
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Versatile Fit: Adjustable ties for a custom silhouette
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Timeless Style: Designed for day-to-night wear
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Sustainable & Thoughtfully Made: High-quality, upcycled materials
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Maternity & Postpartum Friendly: Moves with your body through every stage
Where We Are Now
Life is nonstop these days, and as a mom, I know how important it is to have something that makes getting dressed effortless. This dress helps me start my day off easier—chasing after my little one, running errands, and seamlessly transitioning from day to night. All while being comfortable!
What started as just an idea has come so far, and it's constantly evolving. My biggest hope is that Teal and Vine helps women—especially moms navigating change—feel confident, beautiful, and joyful through it all.
Because when you feel good, you show up as your best self—for your family, your work, and yourself.
Thank you for being here. I can’t wait to see how Teal and Vine continues to grow!
With love,
Hayley
What is a caftan, and how do you wear it?
A caftan is a loose, flowy garment that can be worn as resortwear, loungewear, or an elegant outfit. Our Endless Fit™ Caftans allow you to adjust the fit with hidden interior ties, making them both stylish and practical.
Are caftans good for maternity and postpartum?
Yes! The adjustable fit of our Endless Fit™ Caftans makes them perfect for pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. They provide comfort without sacrificing style.
What makes Teal and Vine’s caftans different?
Unlike traditional caftans, our designs feature a custom tie system for a flattering, tailored look. They are made with premium upcycled materials, ensuring sustainability and longevity.
Where can I buy a Teal and Vine caftan?
You can shop our latest collection of luxury, adjustable caftans here.
Internal Links:
- Read more about How to Style a Caftan here.