Natalie Mumford & Crystal Early of 3 Women
“A threefold cord is not easily broken” is the biblical motto of vintage group 3 Women — a motto that serves as an invitation to the larger community to take part in their work. Created by Natalie Mumford and Crystal Early, 3 Women imagines a world made better through repurposing and re-imagining of surplus fabric. Each handwritten tag notes the origin of the fabric and the embellishments on their one-of-a-kind garments. The duo produces their own collections, and invites clients to select from their archive of fabrics for custom pieces. Their vision goes beyond the brand, but imagines — with a great deal of hope and optimism — a circular supply chain in fashion, tailored to the customer’s imagination.
Based in Long Beach, CA, 3 Women recently launched an upcycled shopping event in Williamsburg, Brooklyn — with two locations on Hooper Street and Metropolitan Avenue. Their first market event outside of California, Re/WORKED Market curated popular names in regenerative fashion: Psychic Outlaw, Wild Roots Denim, Maida Goods, Them Talons, Anemone, and more — bringing together value-driven upcycled brands from across the country.
FABRIC FOREVER: We love a brand that finds ways to revive, regenerate, and rethink what’s already out there.
NAMES: Natalie Mumford & Crystal Early
CITY: Long Beach, CA
TELL US HOW Re/WORKED MARKET CAME TOGETHER: Laura Siegel reached out to us earlier this year to discuss the possibility of being a partner for a circular fashion market in Brooklyn, NY on June 4-5 and to join a panel discussion for the sister summit earlier in the week. We loved the idea and were stoked to help with the curation of the first of its kind Re/WORKED Makers Market and to spread our wings for our first ever show outside of California. We're grateful for the opportunity to bring the brand to New York, all our Brooklyn angels who fed, lodged, and showed us around, the community and friendships formed, indulgence and rest. We ❤️ NY!
WHAT ARE THE VALUES THAT DRIVE YOUR BUSINESS DECISIONS? Creative collaboration, community, durability, resourcefulness and authenticity.
DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE:
Crystal: Something I can work and play in that conveys a positive message and looks unique. Clothes that are comfortable and flattering on the body, that can handle high kicks, dropping low, lifting and setting up at flea markets. Something that makes someone pause and ask, "Where did you get that?" and I say, "3 Women".
Natalie: I love statement pieces on top of classics- like a pastel blue Stacey Nishimoto corset over a neutral dress or interesting, strange jewelry. I’m experimental, on the fly, rarely thought out. Youthful and sophisticated, playful and sexy. I’m strongly drawn to 1970s clothing and 90s style.
WHAT YOU CAN’T STOP WEARING:
Crystal: My trousers. I love shorts, halter tops and vintage tees, pleated wool mini skirts and clothes that are too old and beautiful for me to be wearing everyday. I love my 1970s Even Cowgirls Get the Blues promotional tee! It was a hand-me-down from my friend, Joy.
Natalie: My 1980s high waist dark wash denim Kansai Yamamoto pants I found for $1 hiding in a bin at an Estate Sale and I recently found my dream shoes at the thrift store- 1970s black leather Salvatore Ferragamo knee high boots.
YOUR DREAM DINNER GUEST:
Natalie: The whole cast and crew of the Godfather circa 1972.
Crystal: All of my ancestors- including my mom & my dad, my Great Aunt Anna and my Grandma & Grandpa Lee, my Great Great Grandma June Hong and my Frenchie Stewie.
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