Let’s start with a little intro! Tell us about yourself. 

First, I just want to say that it’s been so fun to watch the growth of Mestiza over the last several years and I’m honored to be a part of your Tastemaker series! My name is Emily Keneally and I’m the founder of Alice Walk, a womenswear brand focused on elevated, classic wardrobe staples made from the best quality fabrics and materials. I grew up in Hingham, Massachusetts and spent the first five years after graduating from Bowdoin College working for an investment bank in NYC. It was during these years that I became frustrated with cluttered department stores and sorting through racks of trendy, poorly-made clothes – and felt like there had to be a better approach. I currently live in the small town of Cohasset, MA with my husband and two daughters, Madigan and Camille. 

Emily wears the Chloe Wrap Pants

The name “Alice Walk” holds such personal meaning—it’s named after a charming seaside path in your hometown of Hingham, Massachusetts, where you grew up and later got married. What made you choose this as the name for your brand?

I wanted a brand name that felt feminine, timeless and personal – but I also felt strongly about not naming it after myself. It was actually my mom that came up with the idea of naming the brand after this historic walkway behind our home – and it stuck!

Both Alice Walk and Mestiza share a love for vintage references and elevated textiles. Why do you think it’s important to look to the past when designing for the modern woman?

Our customer is a discerning shopper and has a strong sense of personal style. She doesn’t chase trends but instead wants to invest in timeless pieces that will last and hold a special role in her closet forever. We pull most of our inspiration from the past – when fabric, meticulous construction and simple, clean lines were at the forefront. We’re trying to bring back this design philosophy for our customer who believes in intentional consumption and lives by a less is more approach.

Your appreciation for textiles is so apparent in both your clothing and your home. How would you describe your personal style—and how does it come to life in your wardrobe and interiors?

Classic and unfussy – and comfortable! I really believe style is all about confidence, so the quality, fit and comfort of what you’re wearing is so important. I am a big fan of work-horse neutrals, but I also love color! I usually weave it in through statement accessories (our cashmere wrap is an easy way to add a pop of color) or fun accent pieces in our home.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to women just beginning their entrepreneurial journey? Was there a pivotal turning point in your own path that helped shape the success of Alice Walk?

There is no right time to start something – if you feel passionate about an idea and can’t stop thinking about it (day and night), just go for it! The best advice is usually your own gut instinct – so listen to it. But also don’t be afraid to ask for help J Surround yourself by other entrepreneurs, teammates and mentors that can give you plenty of support and encouragement along the way. It’s not easy, but there is nothing more satisfying than building something from the ground up - the blood, sweat and tears are worth it in the end!

At Mestiza, we’re always inspired by women who live stylishly inside and out. How do you bring intention and beauty into your daily life?

This sounds cheesy, but I think the best way to do this is just being a good, kind person everyday – and just focus on what you can contribute, whether it’s big or small. What you give out always returns. The most stylish women I’ve known or admired are the ones that really put themselves out there, aren’t focused on perception and always seem to be the ones lifting others up. 

If you could style a few Mestiza separates with your signature Alice Walk sweaters, what would be your dream pairing?

I absolutely love the Chloe Wrap pants – they are so unique and incredibly well made. They pair perfectly with our white Linen Scallop Tank and ivory Cashmere Wrap. I also love the Riviera Lace shorts – these would look so nice with one of our neutral-colored Cashmere Cardigans or Cashmere Crewnecks. 

What draws you to the Mestiza brand?

It’s clear how thoughtful your team approaches the design and production process. The quality of construction, the gorgeous fabrics, the special details….and of course your stunning colors and prints! I also love your brand story and seeing what an incredible business you two have built.

And finally—how does wearing Mestiza make you feel?

The minute I slipped on the Chloe Wrap Pants, I immediately felt pulled together and so elegant! You’ve also perfected the fit – which makes all the difference feeling comfortable in a garment.