Understory Design Co., a new venture by local designer and illustrator Marni Kaldjian, aims to fuse apparel design with a commitment to environmental stewardship and community support. Kaldjian stated, "Every piece begins with an idea, using design as a way to explore and encourage the values of mutual support, stewardship and belonging."
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The brand's online presence is anchored by the phrase, “The forest as a model for connection,” which reflects Kaldjian's belief in the metaphor of the understory, the forest layer supporting the canopy that symbolizes community interdependence. She highlighted the importance of this supportive role in both ecosystems and local communities.
Kaldjian's apparel encompasses T-shirts, stickers, and other merchandise that celebrate the natural world, showcasing the beauty of Wisconsin's prairie lands and native flora. Each design prompts exploration of the interconnected relationships within these ecosystems, inviting viewers to think deeply about the narratives being portrayed.
Her illustrations include themes like “Respect The Locals,” focusing on native species such as milkweed and honeybees, alongside representations of iconic Wisconsin landscapes like Devil’s Lake and the Apostle Islands. Kaldjian noted, “(My designs) kind of run the gamut of playful and joyful; things that might encourage you to think more deeply about what you’re looking at.”
Originally from Eau Claire, Kaldjian spent her early adult years in Minnesota, where she studied design, influenced by her Armenian heritage and experiences abroad that broadened her design perspective. Her work also reflects inspiration from underground and streetwear fashion, both locally and internationally.
Now back in Eau Claire, Kaldjian is dedicated to community-focused design, asking herself, “What does it mean to hold up a community through design?” As part of Understory Design Co., she incorporates a “give back” model by donating a portion of profits from specific designs to local nonprofits, ensuring her business supports the very ecosystems it promotes.
Seeing her designs worn around town has been exhilarating for Kaldjian, who remarked, “I’ll be at the farmers market and see people I don’t know wearing the shirts – that’s crazy.”
Looking ahead, Kaldjian plans to collaborate with various artists, including textile and tattoo artists, to expand her offerings. She envisions using sustainable printing methods on curated second-hand garments while fostering a collaborative community environment centered around ecological awareness.
Understory Design Co. can be explored further at understorydesignco.com, and updates can be followed on their social media @understorydesign.co.