Meet Jessica Vazquez

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jessica Vazquez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jessica , thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

My work is a reflection of who I am. I firmly believe in prioritizing quality, especially in an age where competition is at its peak and technology is becoming increasingly dominant. It is essential to do things right and maintain high standards, such as when altering a garment for a better fit, even within challenging circumstances.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am currently the lead garment engineer at a sewing studio called SewFYI, which is located in the Arts District of Los Angeles. In this position, I oversee a talented team of artists who conduct sewing workshops alongside me. Together, we impart knowledge on various fashion-related subjects, including patternmaking, to both adults and children.

What I find particularly fulfilling about this role is the involvement I have in planning and decision-making processes. This not only allows me to shape the direction of our workshops but also provides numerous opportunities for personal development, skill acquisition, and career advancement. One of my proudest initiatives is the upcycled class I developed and now host. In this class, we take existing garments and creatively repurpose their materials to create something entirely new. Students derive immense joy from upcycling items that hold personal significance to them, and I take great satisfaction in encouraging their creativity throughout this process. I love witnessing the transformation of their ideas into tangible creations.

And when I’m not at the studio, I am behind the cameras, tailoring clothes on set. The excitement of a live set fuels my creativity and motivation. It’s not just a job for me; it’s a vibrant experience that ignites a little flame within, connecting my inner self to my passion for fashion and design. In those moments, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of a production, I feel truly alive, channeling my enthusiasm into every stitch and adjustment I make.

I am truly grateful for how far I’ve come, and I look forward to what the future holds for me.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back on my journey, I believe the three qualities that have had the most significant impact on my craft of sewing are skill development, effective communication, and a strong eagerness to learn without being overly critical of myself.

Mastering the technical aspects of sewing is essential. This includes understanding different fabrics, techniques, and patterns. My advice to those early in their journey is to invest time in honing these skills through practice and education. Taking classes, watching tutorials, and experimenting with various projects can provide hands-on experience that is invaluable.

In the creative field, communication is essential. The ability to express your ideas clearly and to listen to feedback can greatly enhance the quality of your work. I encourage beginners to practice articulating their thoughts and to remain open to constructive criticism. Cultivating these skills can truly make a significant difference in your journey and help you progress further in your craft.

Lastly, maintaining a mindset of curiosity and learning is so important. It’s easy to become discouraged by mistakes or setbacks, but viewing them as opportunities for growth is crucial. For those starting out, I recommend embracing every experience, whether good or bad, as a stepping stone towards improvement. Allow yourself the grace to learn at your own pace without harsh self-judgment.

By focusing on these areas, individuals can develop a solid foundation for a successful journey in sewing or any creative endeavor they choose to pursue.

Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

My ideal client in fashion design and sewing embodies several distinct characteristics that foster a fruitful and enjoyable collaboration.

I value clients who are open to exploring creative ideas and concepts. Those who can effectively communicate their vision, preferences, and feedback even when they aren’t familiar with sewing- can help establish a strong foundation for our partnership. An appreciation for the intricacies and labor involved in fashion design is crucial; when clients recognize the time, effort, and skill required to bring their ideas to life, it fosters mutual respect throughout the process and encourages fair pricing.

Additionally, the fashion design journey often presents unexpected challenges or changes. Clients who remain flexible and can adapt to the evolving nature of a project significantly enhance our ability to create beautiful, personalized pieces.

These qualities in an ideal client contribute to a positive working relationship in which both parties feel valued and inspired, ultimately leading to remarkable designs that resonate with our shared vision.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess.sewing.studio?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
• Other: SewFYI
  201 s Santafe Ave
  Los Angeles Ca
  90015

  https://www.sewfyi.com/

Image Credits

Matthew Salas