SHE’S A NOMAD | Lisa-Marie Armstrong
Some people spend their lives searching for a place to belong. Others learn that belonging is something they carry within them.
Volume 02: Lisa-Marie Armstrong
For Lisa-Marie Armstrong, the idea of being a nomad has been woven into her story from the very beginning. Having moved frequently throughout childhood and continuing that journey into adulthood, she has spent much of her life adapting to new environments, communities, and experiences. Rather than seeing constant change as a challenge, she views it as one of her greatest gifts.
“I’ve been a nomad my whole life from the age of five,” she shares. It has given me the gift of adaptability. I’m able to easily adjust to new situations and people.
This ability to embrace change has shaped not only how she moves through the world but also how she connects with others. It is perhaps why community sits at the heart of her relationship with HONS.
“I feel connected to the brand because of the feeling of community,” she explains. “I don’t know any other company that gives me this feeling like HONS. There’s also a deep respect for the artistry behind the pieces. This means a lot to me, especially being a creator myself.”
While many people define a nomad by what they carry, Lisa-Marie’s answer reflects both practicality and perspective. Physically, she rarely goes anywhere without her Apple EarPods, using them to discover new music and listen to inspiring podcasts. Mentally, however, she carries something far more powerful.
“A smile,” she says. “Life feels so much more enjoyable when I do that.”
Despite years of movement, there is one place that consistently grounds her: Santa Barbara, California. Her hometown remains a source of inspiration and familiarity, offering the coastal landscapes and creative energy that continue to influence her outlook on life.
When asked about the item in her wardrobe that holds the most memories, Lisa-Marie immediately thinks of a flannel plaid shirt from the 1970s. It once belonged to her father and carries with it memories of watching him work on cars.
“I was fascinated with watching him work,” she recalls. “I get my creative ability from him.”
Today, she is in the process of upcycling the piece, transforming it into something that reflects her personal style while preserving its sentimental value. It is a beautiful reminder that clothing can be more than something we wear; it can be a vessel for memory, identity, and connection.
Perhaps the most transformative chapter of Lisa-Marie’s journey has come through a conscious lifestyle change. Three and a half years ago, she decided to stop drinking alcohol.
“The habit that has changed my life the most is not drinking alcohol,” she shares. “My focus and overall joy in life have increased exponentially by choosing an alcohol-free life.”
Her words reflect a broader philosophy, one centred on intentionality, self-awareness, and choosing what truly adds value to life.
The Pieces She Returns To
Her most valued wardrobe staples from House of Woven Stories are:
- Chemena Cherry Red Dress – a bold expression of confidence and timeless femininity.
- Karin Ink Denim Dress – an everyday essential that balances comfort with understated sophistication.
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Bettina Dusty Blue Long Shirt – a versatile layer that moves seamlessly between moments, embracing the ease and adaptability that define her lifestyle.
Each piece mirrors the values she admires most: quality, artistry, and clothing designed to evolve with the person wearing it. Rather than following trends, Lisa-Marie chooses garments that tell a story, accompany her through different chapters of life, and become part of her own journey.
Through every move, every new beginning, and every chapter of personal growth, Lisa-Marie continues to embody the spirit of the modern nomad. Not because she is always searching for somewhere new, but because she has learned how to carry curiosity, creativity, and connection wherever she goes.
And perhaps that is what being a nomad really means:
finding home within yourself.
