Emily Current & Meritt Elliott
Best Friends, Stylists, Authors, Designers, Founders & Creative Directors of THE GREAT
Emily Current and Meritt Elliott are proof that women are unparalleled when they come together. Inspiring a community of such multifaceted women is part of our mission, and the unique sisterhood that Current and Elliott have created both personally and professionally has us taking notes.
"We want to be multifaceted, fearless, and forever open to exploring new ideas, projects, and opportunities."
Whether it be through their lasting best friendship dating back to the days of UCLA, or their joint fashion and business ventures, they embody the ideals of female empowerment and soft strength. We’re huge fans of their work—Founders and Creative Directors of cult denim brand CURRENT/ELLIOTT (exited in late 2012), and celebrated Americana womenswear collection THE GREAT, interior design collaborators with Pottery Barn, stylists, authors of A Denim Story, the list goes on.
We had the pleasure of speaking with Current and Elliott in their innovative office space—a dynamic fusion of showroom, photo studio, and workspace. Its high ceilings, streaming light and touches of greenery gave us the warm feeling of (an impeccably designed) home. As if their incredible story of partnership couldn’t offer anymore authenticity, they live on the same street, just walking distance from their office. Get to know these trailblazing women with whom we are truly smitten.
How has Americana inspired your careers?
Emily: Everything we create is rooted in casual, American style. We have had a love affair with denim our whole lives and love to celebrate its rich history, evolution, and endless possibilities. We are inspired by classic silhouettes, prints, and patterns. Over the years, we have been on countless road trips throughout the United States and are equally as inspired by the character of small towns, the beautiful vastness of mountain landscapes, and the open road.
What are you bringing to the industry?
Meritt: We want to be strong, kind, and successful leaders in the denim industry. We want to be role models for female best friends who elevate and inspire each other. We want to be multifaceted, fearless, and forever open to exploring new ideas, projects, and opportunities.
How has female empowerment shaped your approach to business?
Meritt: We are so lucky to be part of an ever-growing network of women who lean on one another for both professional and personal advice and support. We cheer each other on, we promote each other, and we creatively and strategically collaborate. This has been a true highlight of our journey.
"We are so lucky to be part of an ever-growing network of women who cheer each other on, promote each other, and creatively and strategically collaborate. This has been a true highlight of our journey."
Who are your female influences?
Emily: Our kindred friendship is our greatest source of influence and empowerment; we have a unique understanding of the other’s struggles and strengths. We frequently look to our friends, Hillary Kerr and Katherine Power, for inspiration on balancing a partnership and successfully running a dynamic business. We also take notes from great female thought-leaders and risk-takers throughout history—everyone from Amelia Earhart (fearlessness!) and Martha Stewart (craftiness!) to Malala Yousafzai (activism!), and Madonna (pushing the limits!).
What connected you to Cuyana?
Meritt: We feel kindred with Cuyana’s clear point of view, ambitious work ethic, and sense of optimism. We love that their business is rooted in friendship, quality, and style. We are lucky to call Founders Karla Gallardo and Shilpa Shah our friends, and Cuyana one of our favorite brands.
