We’re looking forward to introducing you to Laura Finley Hasenbank. Check out our conversation below.
Laura Finley, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
A moment that makes me laugh is thinking back to building out my atelier this summer, screwdriver in hand, trying to assemble industrial sewing machines with no instructions. My studio began as a bare room with plywood floors, and once it was painted and the new flooring was in, I couldn’t wait to order my equipment. One day, about eight huge boxes arrived, some over 50 pounds, and the delivery driver casually mentioned that screws had fallen out during transit. The week that followed was spent unpacking boxes and guessing which pieces belonged to which machine. Somehow, I built two fully functioning industrial sewing machines with no instructions and missing screws. I still laugh at that week, but it also makes me proud of myself.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Laura Finley, and I launched my namesake label, Laura Finley Atelier, in the summer of 2025 after earning my BFA in Fashion Design. Rooted in the philosophy of livable luxury, my pieces embody timeless sophistication, designed to be worn, loved, and lived in every day.
Each garment is thoughtfully designed and sewn by hand in my Nashville, Tennessee atelier, where craftsmanship and intentionality are at the heart of everything I create.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My first example of entrepreneurship was my mom. She ran her own stationery design business when I was growing up, and I have so many memories of watching her carefully choose colors, perfect font spacing, and treat each client with intentionality. Without realizing it, I was learning what it meant to pair creativity with discipline. She showed me that building a business takes grit, but the reward is the joy that comes from doing meaningful, creative work every day.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say something to my younger self, it would be to fully embrace my creative expression in every form, because that’s what has shaped who I am today. As a child, I expressed myself through elaborate crafts, decorating baked goods in the kitchen, and “science experiments” that were usually a mess. I always felt free to explore anything that sparked my curiosity, and most of it involved working with my hands. Looking back now, it all makes so much sense, because as a fashion designer, my work is incredibly hands-on: sketching, cutting fabric, sewing, pressing.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Craftsmanship and attention to detail are foundational to my design philosophy, something I never compromise on. The fabric sourcing process alone can be lengthy; I’ve often spent far longer than expected ordering swatches, only to realize the quality doesn’t meet my standards and having to start over. When it comes to garment construction, I care just as much about the interior beauty as the exterior. That means I don’t always take the quickest route just to finish a piece. Instead, I use high-end, intentional sewing techniques, because that’s what defines Laura Finley Atelier.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
There’s a rhythm and method to the sewing process that I absolutely love. When I’m creating a piece like the Cecile Skirt, something I’ve sewn many times before, my brain and body almost go on autopilot. I know what step comes next, which direction the seams get pressed, and I truly enjoy the entire process. A few years ago, I’m not sure I would have believed I’d feel this way about sewing; there was a time when I felt rigid and unsure about clothing construction. Now, it’s undoubtedly my peaceful place.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://laurafinleyatelier.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurafinleyatelier/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laura-finley-atelier/?viewAsMember=true
Image Credits
Avery Lane
Avery Arwood
