Meet Rowell Concepcion | Milliner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rowell Concepcion and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rowell, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I am first gen Filipino American, and during my first trip to The Philippines, my parents took me aside and shared their dream for me. It was not to become a doctor or a lawyer, but to start a business to help the community – our community. This was the moment everything clicked, and I felt a sense of pride and purpose.

The Philippines has a rich culture and history, but it is often overlooked in Western societies, especially when it comes to art and fashion. I have made it my mission to merge my passion to help artisans in my parents’ hometowns by teaching and training the craft of millinery.

After my dad’s passing from Covid, I launched my brand in August 2020 as a tribute to him and a nod to my heritage.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work is inspired by all things playful, quirky, and whimsical. Each hat pays homage to old world craftsmanship. I always think of millinery as a way to turn any daily outfit into a head turner.

Getting to where I am today took a lot of grit and dedication. When I got to NY to study at FIT, I hit the ground running. Within my first week, I was a full-time student, part-time gig worker, and a fashion intern. Every minute of my schedule was accounted for, and I could barely afford to eat. Vending machine Pop Tarts and dollar dumplings in Chinatown saved my life. I worked in the business side of fashion for a decade to save up my coins before launching my brand, Binata Millinery. Learning the ropes has definitely helped my business grow quicker in the last 2 years. I used to be insecure about sharing my work, but NYC & the fashion industry would thicken anyone’s skin. Mine is callous.

The best lesson I’ve learned along the way is to always embrace change.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
These week long visits have happened several times. Here are some favorites from my bestie & me:

*Brooklyn Museum
*Brooklyn Botanic Garden
*Stroll on The Highline
*Catch a flick at Angelika Film Center
*Biking on Governor’s Island

*Joe’s Steam Rice Roll
*Burgers at Minetta Tavern
*Pancakes at Clinton St Bakery
*Cookies from LeVain

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to thank my millinery professors at The Fashion Institute of Technology, Janet Linville & Sandra Walcott, for providing me the foundation for which I build my craft around.

Website: https://www.binatamillinery.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/binatamillinery/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BinataMillinery/

Image Credits
Binata Millinery