Fortiv began in 2018 out of Michelle's desire to re-imagine an alternative way to create clothing, one that is grounded in a holistic and resourceful approach to fashion. The Fortiv studio is based in Vancouver, British Columbia, where each piece is designed, drafted, and sewn by Michelle herself. Throughout the process, she embraces the values of slow fashion, creating pieces that are one of a kind and small batch, unique in their fabric and often featuring details such as patchwork, appliqué, and natural dyes. All of the fabrics she uses are reclaimed from thrift shops, vintage sellers, and local manufacturers. With so much fabric already in existence, Michelle aims to find possibilities in unused materials and reduce textile waste.