About Designer Story
Designer Story, Beki Wilson
Hi, I’m Beki, owner and designer of Out of Line. I’ve been working on/in this business for 23 years, so my story is long. My motivation came from necessity, I needed a way to support myself and my daughter as a single mom, but there are many ways to do that. My story is really one of love for my daughter and love for my craft. I wanted to lift us up from where we were. I wanted to be an example to my daughter of how to live a good life even with very little. It matters to me how I spend my time and it matters to me to be surrounded by art and living a creative life.
I learned to sew at a young age, taught by my mom who was taught by her mom. My Grandma Becky, my namesake, was a fiber artist and weaver. She displayed her work on her walls, as upholstery on her furniture, and sewn into clothing. I had a great example of a true passion for craft and how it can uplift and add to a life, making it magical, meaningful, and beautiful. After learning to sew I quickly started making my own patterns and clothing.
I started Out of Line in 2000. I was a single mom to my then five year old daughter. We lived in low income housing and I was waitressing. Sewing was still something I enjoyed, I was making clothing for myself and my daughter, so I started selling at a weekend market. I kept this up until I was able to quit waitressing and devote myself full time to the business. To further my skills I attended fashion school and received a degree in garment construction.
My designs originally were born from a need to set myself apart. I couldn’t afford fancy fabrics so the topstitched lines, fabric manipulation and block printing were ways to create interest with a relatively simple fabric. This process grew organically through the years into the unique voice I have today. One of the best compliments I’ve received came from a woman in my market booth, “I love the way your mind works.” I felt so seen and that’s how I feel with my customers today. They appreciate the process, the work, and the final product.
My daughter is now living her own creative life. She’s a poet and in graduate school for urban planning, bringing forward her passion for community and art. I still have a lot to say through Out of Line. I have ideas that I’m excited about, and plans for the future. It’s such a process and such a journey.
A one day at a time, enjoy the process, baby steps type of journey.
XO, Beki
Out of Line, the company
A little about us and what we find important.
Our goal is to create wearable pieces that women reach for as favorites in their wardrobe. We know the importance of having pieces to rely on. Pieces that can be added seamlessly into a wardrobe that exists now. A big part of this is fit and the feedback we’ve received from customers let us know we’re getting this right. Another big part is versatility, the ability to style the pieces with ease, with items already in one’s closet. As far as design elements, it’s all about playing with gathering, volume, and design lines in unique ways right now.
We are passionate about producing our products ethically. All stages of the production process are thoughtfully managed. Our products are locally made to order and in small batches.
Our fabrics are sourced as mindfully as possible. We use primarily natural fibers, always keeping the “hand” or feel of the fabric in mind. The jerseys and knits we use feel great, have good recovery, and wash well. The fiber content of fabrics is available in product listings.