Empowering Sustainable Fashion: Liliya Tippetts, Visionary Founder and Entrepreneur

With a career spanning over two decades, Liliya’s diverse expertise in arts and finance, and her unwavering commitment to sustainability have led to the creation of inspiring ventures like Marli Dresses and Porterium. In this exclusive interview, Liliya shares her journey, motivations, and vision for a more conscious and empowered future in the world of fashion.

“I have been fortunate to have several business mentors throughout my journey, including my former boss at the London family office, Sergei Foster, and my father. However, my ultimate reference point has always been myself. I believe our energy and unique perspective are what set us apart and make our success stories stand out.”

You started your entrepreneurial career more than 20 years ago. From arts to investments, how does your diverse expertise allow you today to manage such an interesting portfolio of activities?

I started my entrepreneurial journey over 20 years ago, working in a London family office as a project manager for three different companies in show business, wine distribution, and fundraising. Then, I ventured into my independent business practice by setting up ArteLia, an art gallery and consultancy in London.

As I delved further into the arts, I realized the potential for bridging the gap between art and fashion, as both industries are closely intertwined. This realization led me to found Marli Dresses, a slow fashion label offering luxury wardrobe-essentials.

The Covid-19 pandemic affected the art world, and traveling for art fairs became impossible. It was during this time that I furthered my activity in the fashion industry and was appointed Vice President for Vissionaire MoralModa (VMM), the world’s first eco-luxury publication focusing on arts, fashion, and eco-lifestyle. Today, I manage all these activities in organic interlace, ensuring they complement each other harmoniously.

What part does sustainability play in your business vision?

Sustainability is a core principle in everything I do. I strongly believe in creating a positive impact on the environment and society. Through VMM publication, we focus on the sustainable aspect of fashion, covering impactful success stories and businesses that are driving positive change. My fashion brand, Marli Dresses, is also navigating towards zero waste production and advocating for more conscious consumption through the “Use less Use Better” concept. The fashion industry is a major polluter, and we must take responsibility and contribute to a more sustainable world.

Additionally, Porterium, the first Web3 for Fashion, Art, and Design Marketplace that I founded, promotes sustainability by hosting only 888 unique NFT stores for carefully curated international independent fashion brands and artists, supporting handmade, lower volume production, and reducing CO2 emissions.

Your interest in arts and business opened a large horizon of possibilities. The fashion industry is one of them. What is the story behind the brand creation?

The creation of Marli Dresses is deeply rooted in the story of two sisters, their love for fashion, and their connection between cosmopolitan London and laid-back Monaco. Our brand embodies timeless elegance and sophistication, offering limited pieces that are versatile and suitable for various occasions, from beach days to city nights.

Victoria Silvercrest for Marli Dresses. Photo: Marli

Could you tell more about how the collaboration with a renowned Swedish actress, model, and TV celebrity Victoria Silvstedt started?

The collaboration with Victoria Silvstedt was a result of our shared vision and creative synergy. I strongly believe in women empowering women, and Victoria has been a close colleague of mine. I admire everything she has achieved, from acting and modeling to being a successful businesswoman, which resonates with my role as the founder of a fashion brand. Collaborating on our Wild Life capsule collection, we aimed to evoke strong femininity. Our collection combines sheer, flowing fabrics with bold prints like cheetah and leopard, showcasing the unapologetic strength of women.

Could you tell us about the moment or experience that sparked the idea for Porterium, the first Web3 for Fashion, Art and Design Marketplace, and what motivated you to pursue this ambitious venture?

The idea for Porterium was sparked by my brand, Marli Dresses, when I wanted to scale it up on online shopping platforms but couldn’t find a perfect match. This led me to realize that the fashion industry needed a digital transformation.

Porterium was born out of a desire to create an innovative and immersive shopping experience. Our platform offers a metaverse experience that combines traditional fashion marketplaces with virtual exploration. It’s not just about selling products; it’s about creating a community of creators and consumers, and fostering a sustainable, cutting-edge fashion ecosystem.

Porterium, the first Web3 for Fashion, Art and Design Marketplace

Managing a successful brand and launching a marketplace can be demanding. How do you ensure your personal values align with the values of the brands that join Porterium?

Ensuring my personal values align with the brands that join Porterium is of utmost importance to me. I consider criteria such as their commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and innovation. It’s crucial to collaborate with brands that share the same vision of creating a positive impact in the industry and contributing to a more sustainable future. By aligning our values, we can work together to drive positive change and reshape the fashion landscape.

How do you personally maintain a healthy work-life balance in line with engaging self-improvement and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the fashion industry?

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a constant challenge for me, but I believe it is essential for personal growth and business success. I dedicate time to engage in self-improvement activities, such as attending industry conferences, staying updated with the latest fashion trends by attending Fashion Shows, and seeking inspiration from art exhibitions and cultural events. I am currently exploring ways to improve my productivity through YouTube videos on Productivity with Michael Hyatt. Also, I prioritize sleep and a healthy lifestyle to sharpen my cognitive function and maintain a crystal-clear, confident vision.

Liliya Tippetts. Photo by Global Networker

As an international entrepreneur attending high-profile business gatherings and events, what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to build their network and establish their presence on a global scale?

My advice is to be proactive and seize opportunities. Attend industry events, conferences, and networking gatherings where you can connect with like-minded individuals and potential collaborators. Be open to learning from others, seek mentorship, and build genuine relationships based on mutual support and shared goals. Utilize various social platforms to amplify your presence and showcase your expertise. Remember, building a strong network takes time and effort, so be consistent and persistent in nurturing those connections. And Just Do It:)!

You are an active traveler; is there a place where you feel more comfortable living and working?

I was born in Ukraine and moved to London after university, where I lived and worked for 15 years before moving to Monaco when I became a mother to a wonderful son. I share a lot of my time between Monaco, Dubai, and London—the three business moguls that bring a lot of opportunities and unique energy to my life and business. My next goal is to be more established in the USA.

Where do you see your business in 5 and 10 years from now?

In 5 and 10 years, I envision my business expanding further and making a significant impact in the e-commerce space. Marli Dresses will continue to be synonymous with elegance and sophistication, catering to a global clientele who appreciates our unique timeless creations.

As for Porterium, I see it thriving as a leading Web3 marketplace, transforming the way fashion, art, and design are experienced and consumed. The platform will evolve with technological advancements and embrace new opportunities in the digital landscape, empowering creators and consumers alike.

Additionally, Porterium will continue to support smaller, sustainable, and ethical fashion brands and artists, creating a platform where their unique creations can flourish. I am excited about the potential of Porterium to host metaverse fashion shows and art exhibitions, bringing together artists and consumers in a dynamic and immersive environment.

Liliya Tippetts. Photo by Global Networker

As a successful female entrepreneur, can you share your success tools with our female readers who are looking into starting their own business?

Of course! First and foremost, believe in yourself and your dreams. Have confidence in your skills and trust your instincts. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks, as they are often the stepping stones to success.

Embrace resilience; entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges, but it’s essential to stay strong and determined in the face of setbacks. Every challenge you overcome brings with it new opportunities for growth.

Build a supportive network of mentors, peers, and like-minded individuals who uplift and inspire you. Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and can offer guidance and encouragement.

Continuously learn and adapt; the business landscape is ever-evolving, and staying curious and open to new ideas will help you stay ahead of the game. Embrace technological advancements like AI to leverage new opportunities.

Lastly, stay true to your values. Authenticity and integrity are key to long-term success. Let your values guide your decisions, and never compromise on what you believe in.

Thank you for having me today, and congratulations on your bright start of a much-anticipated publication launch.

Instagram @liliyatippetts