When you think of clothing designers, names such as Yves Saint Laurent and Gucci spring to mind. However, in Dromore one incredibly influential designer is encouraging women to embrace their natural beauty with comfortable and elegant pieces – handcrafted and designed in what is quickly becoming the boutique capital of the Borough.
Melanie Bond, has a rich educational background that laid the foundation for her diverse interests and aspirations. She began her academic journey at Harmony Hill Primary School in Lisburn, where her passion for learning was ignited. Following her time there, Melanie progressed to Friends’ School, further honing her skills and interests.
One of Melanie’s standout subjects during her school years was Spanish. Despite finding speaking the language a bit challenging, her aptitude for writing in Spanish was remarkable. This skill not only showcased her dedication to mastering the language but also highlighted her love for communication and expression.
As she grew older, Melanie’s aspirations evolved significantly. Initially, she dreamed of becoming a journalist, drawn to the world of storytelling and information sharing.
Speaking to UrbanABC, Melanie recalls; “At school my favourite subject was Spanish – though I was always better at writing it than speaking it! My aspirations for the future changed a lot as I grew up, ranging from journalist to author, but my earliest memory is of wanting to run a shop”.
Melanie’s ambition speaks to her entrepreneurial spirit and desire for creativity, traits that continue to shape her journey today.
Initially qualifying as a solicitor, Melanie dedicated 15 years to private practice, honing her skills in the legal field. However, alongside her legal career, Melanie nurtured a creative side, making jewellery as a hobby. What began as a simple pastime soon blossomed into something more significant, as friends and acquaintances began requesting custom pieces to complement their outfits or serve as thoughtful gifts.
In 2011, Melanie made a bold statement in the fashion world by entering the West Coast Cooler Citra Design Showcase. She showcased an experimental design that featured a striking cuff adorned with vibrant beads, intricately bound with complex wiring. This innovative piece not only highlighted her creativity but also captured the attention of everyone present, setting the stage for her future endeavours in fashion.
The following year marked another significant milestone in Melanie’s career when she had the honour of creating a bespoke commissioned necklace for the esteemed Dame Mary Peters. This exquisite piece was proudly worn by Dame Mary at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards, further solidifying Melanie’s reputation as a talented designer who can cater to high-profile clients.
In 2013, Melanie’s design prowess shone once again when she crafted a stunning tiara for Shaniece Nesbitt, who was crowned Miss Ulster. This elegant piece added a touch of glamour to the occasion, demonstrating Melanie’s ability to create timeless and sophisticated designs that resonate with beauty and grace.
Through these accomplishments, Melanie Bond has established herself as a trailblazer in the fashion design industry, continually pushing boundaries and creating remarkable pieces that leave a lasting impression.
The pandemic proved to be a pivotal moment in Melanie’s life. As the world shifted, so did her focus. She seized the opportunity to diversify her offerings by venturing into online fashion sales. Melanie devoted considerable effort to developing her website, embracing the thrill of entrepreneurship and the diverse challenges it presented.
“Like many people, the pandemic proved to be a turning point, when I began to diversify into selling fashion online and put a lot of work into developing my website. I found that I really enjoyed the thrill and diversity of business and left my job as a solicitor in 2022 to give it my all”.
A strong advocate for the role of the high street in the community, Melanie believes in the power of working together for the greater good, fostering a sense of unity and support among local enterprises.
“I’ve learned the value of developing positive relationships – with customers, with staff and with other businesses. I am a huge believer in the role of the high street in the community, and value working together for the good of all. I’ve also learned that running your own business is relentless, but that you have to look after yourself and manage your time to keep it sustainable”.
Despite the challenges of running her own business, Melanie acknowledges the relentless yet rewarding nature of entrepreneurship. She understands the necessity of self-care and effective time management to ensure sustainability in her endeavours. Through this journey, Melanie Bond has not only transformed her career but has also become a beacon of community spirit and resilience in the fashion industry.
Asked to recall the most memorable moment in her fashion story, Melanie says; “I love organising events, and had a great time launching my jewellery range, Wearable Truth, at a fashion show in Belfast in 2022. As well as that, I have to say that opening the shop in Dromore in summer 2023 was the realisation of a long-held dream, and will always stick with me as a special time”
Some may think that giving up a steady career in the legal field is risky but Melanie had a dream and a vision for her future. “Keep going—never give up. The journey may be filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt, but perseverance is key to success.
Starting out in any creative industry can be daunting. There will be times when you face criticism, experience failures, or feel overwhelmed by competition. It’s essential to remember that every successful designer has faced obstacles along the way. The difference lies in their ability to push through those tough moments and learn from them. Embrace each setback as an opportunity for growth and improvement”.
Melanie shares her life with her husband Stephen and her two amazing children Rosa and Timothy, along with an energetic and lovable dog named Wilbur, who is currently 20 months old. Wilbur is not just a pet; he’s a vibrant character who brings joy and laughter to Melanie’s daily routine.
Daily walks are more than just exercise; they are opportunities for family bonding and adventure – inspiring this creative, talented fashion designer.
Read more about Melanie Bond:
Follow Melanie Bond Boutique on Facebook
Dromore boutique celebrates first anniversary with special catwalk show and free event
View Melanie Bond listing in our Directory