Meet Monica Wesley, designer, founder, and all-around creative force behind Uye Surana, the body-positive lingerie brand redefining everyday beauty. With her dreamy, small-batch designs and size-inclusive styles, Monica is on a mission to make every person feel like their most empowered, comfortable self—without sacrificing a single ounce of style.
She launched Uye Surana (pronounced Yoo Sur-ah-nah) back in 2012, and has been quietly building a lingerie revolution ever since. From her light-filled studio in Lower Manhattan, Monica designs pieces that are just as artistic as they are wearable—and always produced with intention. Each style is handmade in small batches (often limited edition!), so what you get is truly one-of-a-kind.
With sizing that ranges from petite to plus, Monica’s collection has become a favorite for sustainability-minded shoppers, as well as those who simply love a beautiful fit.
Fun fact: Monica went to Parsons with our founders Shilpa and Harmony, proof that good things come from strong creative women supporting each other.
And in case you were wondering? Yes, Monica’s personal style is just as effortlessly cool as her designs. In her shoot, she’s wearing our Groovy Green Point Slide with the Groovy Green Amal Strap—a bold, playful pairing that’s made for standing out (and standing comfortably).
Follow her journey: @monica_wesley
Discover the collection: uyesurana.com
Exclusive for Alterre fans: Use code ALTERREFANS15 for 15% off full-price Uye Surana through 9/01/25
Monica in Her Own Words
Your mantra?
Work hard, stay humble.
Best advice you've received on your career journey?
Don’t forget to look off into the distance and let your eyes adjust on the horizons.
Heels or flats?
Flats all the way. My Parsons days in sky-high heels are a (very stylish) memory.
Dream dinner guests—dead or alive?
Lucille Ball, Marsha P. Johnson, and Ali Wong. A little humor, a little history, a lot of heart.
Guilty pleasure?
Nightly sweet treats. No regrets.
Secret weapon?
Determination + patience. A powerful duo.
Advice for future boss ladies?
Don’t let “networking” intimidate you. It’s just talking to people about ideas you love.
Let’s toast to your success—what’s your drink?
A Manhattan, of course. It’s home.
Your Invitation to Shop Thoughtfully
Whether you’re refreshing your lingerie drawer or building the perfect work-to-weekend wardrobe, Monica’s designs, and her philosophy, are a beautiful reminder to shop with intention.
Use code ALTERREFANS15 for 15% off full-price at uyesurana.com through September 1, 2025
Looking for versatile style to pair with your lingerie drawer refresh?
Shop Our Work-to-Play Collection →
0 comments