How did you get into sustainable fashion?

Sustainable fashion has kind of always been a part of my life naturally. I remember my first backpack being from a second-hand shop, it was kelly green and it said Panama on it, I would love to find that bag again! I also started my fashion career working at American Apparel, at the time the company produced sustainably in the U.S. and was vertically integrated so I got to learn about the entire production process working there. By the time PASSPORT was started I had already been in the sustainable fashion industry for over seven years so to build a business in this space was a no-brainer.

How would you describe your personal style?

Every year I kind of have a small theme I try to dress by, 2019 for me was all about early 90s Versace inspired prints and jewelry. This year I have been inspired by the model off duty look of both legacy supermodels and my current favorites, like Doutzen Kroes. Besides that, I generally have been sticking to classic colors and stripes and always heels!

And, from who or where do you pull inspiration when it comes to your style?

It is a cliche, but my style inspiration comes from everywhere, I am so inspired by music, art, scenery and I still relish flipping through beautiful editorials in print magazines.

Go-to spots to get dressy in Austin for GNO?

Dylan and Wylde for an amazing eye-catching, unique and well-fitting outfit. I would add to that outfit by checking out some of my favorite vintage shops like Lo-Fi or Blue Velvet for a great complimentary piece like a jacket or a unique bag. For jewelry, I would visit Vada's studio for some amazing earrings or a vintage ring and finally, for shoes, I would get heels at By George.

Through life’s ever-changing seasons, how do you navigate that path that you feel called on & remain true to yourself?

I try to stay grounded always but spending time on self-reflection, which I love to do on long runs around Lady Bird Lake. I am very lucky to have an amazing set of friends whom I can count on to encourage me when I am going through a stressful or particularly difficult season. Finally, I find a lot of inspiration in books, especially biographies and autobiographies, right now I am loving Lead from the Outside by Stacey Abrams. Follow her on Instagram! @maria4congress SHOP WHAT'S CURRENTLY IN MARIA’S MAKEUP COLLECTION: Pomegranate Lip Scrub Pioneer Lip Gloss Activist Lip Gloss Hurraw! Sun Lip Balm Acure Brightening Biocellulose Gel Mask