What’s your year, major and hometown?
I am in my final year as a fashion design major, and I have adored my time here in
Savannah. I was born in Memphis, Tenn., but I have lived all over the country. My mother, father, sister, and three puppies live in Charlotte, N.C.
What is your hometown? Where else have you lived?
Ever since I was born, my family and I have been moving to different states nearly ever year for my father’s work. We have been blessed to live in places such as Canada, Texas, North Carolina, and California. Traveling this much has given me the opportunity to see a bunch of inspiring sights.
How much professional experience do you have in fashion or anything else related to the field?
I have worked in an adorable vintage clothing and antique store called Vintage Wear, and I have so much fun doing sewing repairs, helping customers, modeling the lovely garments that are for sale, and being a visual decorator for the store windows.
When did you decide to pursue a career in fashion?
Ever since I was ten years old, I have dreamed of being a fashion designer. It all started when I took a fashion drawing class one weekend with a friend. I remember the first dress I ever designed was an evening gown inspired by a peacock feather, and it was love from then on.
What inspires you creatively? Professionally?
Nature, the ocean, sea creatures, art history, art museums, vintage clothing, costume designs in films, and music constantly inspire me. I secretly love listening to Disney music while I sketch and design. I love looking at the past and the details that can be found in the garments of different eras. Films that I watch, such as “Vertigo,” “Sabrina,” “The Great Gatsby,” and “Rear Window” also inspire me.
What are some of the most pressing issues facing today’s fashion designers? Models? Accessory designers?
The economy, sustainability in fashion, and creating creative and artistic clothing that is still very marketable and wearable.
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
This summer, I have the opportunity to be a dress design intern at Lilly Pulitzer. I would adore continuing to design for Lilly or a company like them where you can be truly creative. I admire their feminine details, vintage inspired silhouettes, and adorably wild prints. I would like calling a company like that ‘home’ as a designer.
Do you have any advice for future SCAD fashion designers or those who are preparing to enter the industry?
I would say that you need to have a passion for what you are doing and for your vision as a designer. You need to stay determined, hard working, and in love. There are so many talented individuals in this world, but what will truly set you apart is your ability to never give up and to stay passionate about what you love.
How would you categorize your aesthetic?
I enjoy designing for both women and children, and I would have to say that my style is very whimsical. I want my clothing to be unlike anything else, and I wish that the wearer would feel transformed when wearing my garments. I think that they are certainly very feminine, girly, magical, and detailed. I would love for someone to notice a new little detail about my garments every time that they put them on and to feel as if the clothing transports them to a magical new place.
Who would be your dream designer to work alongside?
I adore, respect, and admire Sarah Burton, Vera Wang, Lilly Pulitzer, and the designers of Marchesa. Those are some of my very favorite ladies in the fashion world.
When you think about the future of fashion, what do you see?
I would love to see a world where people are not concerned about what is considered ‘normal’ in fashion and what is considered ‘on trend.’ Each and every person in the future of fashion should wear what truly expresses his or her personality and his or her creative voice.
