2025 LSU alumna Carly Illanne started Stately Designs, a clothing business that specializes in customs, during her junior year of college.
“At first, I started with women’s boutique clothing, then I realized I had a knack for sportswear and custom gameday wear,” Illanne said.
The business’ name is a nod to LSU’s alma mater, “Where stately oaks and broad magnolias shade inspiring halls…” One of the many ways she shows her love for LSU through her business.
Carly enjoys being able to help family members support their favorite players, without ditching their style. Ella Springfield, LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier’s fiance, was one of Carly’s first clients.
“Being a fan of your partner is the coolest thing,” Springfield said. “Customs is my thing, and he gets to play his sport and I love watching him do it.”
The Nussmeier family is one of the many high-profile clients Illanne has worked with. She has also created a variety of customs for Texas quarterback Arch Manning’s mom, Ellen Manning. She even designed a baseball shirt for Former LSU outfielder Dylan Crew’s dog.
One of Illanne’s biggest projects was a custom gold LSU baseball dog jersey that Jay Johnson asked her to design for Kirk Herbstreit’s dog.
Stately Designs has taken off in the past two years, but no business’ journey is completely smooth sailing. Around a month ago, during Illanne’s busiest time of the year her home studio ceiling collapsed.
“It brought me back to my roots.” Illanne said. “I had sewing machines on the kitchen table like I had in college.”
Thankfully, she was able to revamp her studio quickly with some help from her dad. Charles Illanne has been with Carly every step of the way, and she said they both learn from each other.
“To see where she can actually sketch out a bridal event dress, and then create it, is amazing,” Charles said. “I couldn’t even think of how to start that.”
Stately Designs recently started producing custom bridal pieces. The idea started as Carly’s senior project at LSU, but it is something she would like to continue to expand.
For more information on Stately Designs customs visit her website: The Stately Collections – Stately Designs.
