Jean Elliott’s story isn’t about a straight path to success—it’s about creating one. Raised in Portland and educated at the University of Oregon, Jean’s early years didn’t predict her future as a designer and entrepreneur. She entered college as an art enthusiast and discovered product design almost by chance. “We had to make backpacks in five weeks,” Jean recalls, a pivotal moment that sparked her interest in creating wearable designs. That hands-on challenge set her on a trajectory that would eventually lead to Tangerine Studios.

Chicago, with its vibrant mix of cultures and opportunities, became Jean’s canvas. “My dad grew up in Hyde Park, and when my husband got a job here, it just made sense,” she says. Beyond logistics, moving to Chicago opened doors to a broader Asian community, which played a transformative role in her life. “Growing up in Portland, it was very homogenous,” Jean explains. “Here, I’ve found a connection to my heritage I didn’t even realize I was missing.”

Adopted from China as a toddler, Jean grew up navigating questions of identity. It wasn’t until she immersed herself in Chicago’s multicultural environment that she began exploring her cultural roots through design. “A lot of my work now incorporates elements of Asian formalwear,” she shares, describing how motifs like phoenixes and dragons find their way into her creations for weddings and celebrations. “I’ve learned so much from friends and clients who’ve shared their traditions with me.”

Tangerine Studios, named after her childhood love for oranges, embodies Jean’s playful and practical ethos. “I didn’t want to name it after myself,” she says. “If it failed, I didn’t want that embarrassment attached to my name.” But failure wasn’t in the cards. From upcycled materials to bespoke designs, Jean’s work has resonated with a diverse audience. “I love giving new life to materials and helping people feel connected to their culture through what they wear.”

Success hasn’t come without challenges. Jean vividly remembers a job interview with Nike where she presented confidently—only to discover she’d missed a critical document. “I didn’t get the job, and they even said I came off arrogant,” she admits. “It was embarrassing, but it taught me to prepare better. You’ve got to learn from those moments or risk repeating them.”

Jean’s advice to others? Embrace help. “For a long time, I resisted asking for help because it felt like I owed something in return,” she says. Now, she’s learned the value of collaboration, hiring interns and leaning on her network. “It’s about finding a community where you can exchange support and grow together.”

That sense of community has also shaped Jean’s work as a designer. Through her creations, she celebrates individuality while honoring cultural traditions. “I’m always inspired by my clients and the stories they share with me. Whether it’s incorporating a family motif or reusing fabric that’s been passed down, I love weaving personal history into my designs,” she explains.

As an entrepreneur, Jean has learned the importance of balancing creativity with practicality. “There are days when you have zero motivation, and that’s okay,” she says. “I try to remind myself that it’s about consistency over time. Some days I check off two things on my list, other days I tackle twenty. It’s all part of the process.”

Tangerine Studios continues to grow as a brand rooted in authenticity and connection. Jean’s designs not only reflect her clients’ unique stories but also serve as a testament to her own evolution. “I want to help people feel seen, celebrated, and inspired,” she says.

You can find Jean’s work at Tangerine Studios on Instagram (@tangerine.studios), where she’s reshaping fashion and culture, one stitch at a time.