Product
Behind the Designs with Cleo + Wolf Director of Design
Every mark left on an old pair of boots or clothes reflects a moment bursting with wild possibility. A connection between woman and her world where clouds are idols, grass is as good as gold, and everything is—and will be—as it is meant to be.
Cleo + Wolf is an earthy fit for the free spirit with a bit of edge. These pieces aren’t about trends—they’re about what speaks to you. Our muse is a collector of pieces that reflect a life full of chance, a woman who prefers to sleep under the stars than with a roof over her head. Someone who cares deeply about experiences and people but not things. An old soul with a playful heart. Untamed. Wild.
To get a deeper perspective on the design process, we connected with Cleo + Wolf Director of Design, Sonya C., and Director of Women’s Boots, Jodi B.
Where did you pull your inspiration from when designing Cleo + Wolf?
The apparel inspiration is pulled from carefree friends, found objects, vintage prints, and album covers. It’s a nostalgic take on American countryside with an edgy vibe.
For boots, I envisioned what would effortlessly pair back to the haphazard and eclectic mix our muse would dress in each day. A mix up that is part free spirit, part basic, with just the right touch of her playful heart sprinkled in.
What is your design process?
The apparel design process starts with inspiration from an experience. I imagine what she will need. Then I plan outfits on what I think she might be doing: sitting on the back of a Harley up the California Coast, lost in a sun-soaked field of wildflowers, or playing guitar fireside in the woods.
The process for boots is a spirited mix of textures and colors combined with unique hardware finishes. I use a combination of leather swatches, unique textures, and silhouette inspiration.
What makes Cleo + Wolf unique?
The apparel collection has curated wardrobe staples with unexpected combinations that create an effortless look. The colors in the collection are uniform-like and the tones create a practical yet carefree message.
The intricate details in Cleo + Wolf boots make her unique. Something as simple as braided leather trim or antique-finished hardware and handmade sole finishing lend an artisan appeal and earthy sensibility to perfectly pair back to any mix of staples within her wardrobe.
What inspires you personally about this brand? Why do you find this brand exciting?
Cleo + Wolf is an ageless collection of clothing that has a timeless feel. It is an effortless mix of retro-cool styles that are filtered through an American heritage lens with a contemporary relevance.
From boots to apparel pieces, I find this brand to be such an exciting addition to the Boot Barn assortment because it speaks to a different customer. The aesthetics play off each other so you have a true juxtaposition of details.
Relaxed fits paired with feminine accents; hiker boots as a perfect accompaniment to a flowy dress; a true play on patterns and textures meant to evoke a look as though she paired all her closet favorites together and headed out for the day’s adventures.
How do you hope this brand resonates with customers?
I hope that Cleo + Wolf will be the sought-out collection for wardrobe staples. I want customers to feel their best in these pieces and that, eventually, the pieces reflect the experiences she had while wearing them.
While wearing Cleo + Wolf boots, I hope customers feel confident, at ease, and as though they have found a style that is a perfect complement to their lifestyle.
