We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alexandria Carroll a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alexandria, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
Achieving high self-esteem and confidence has never been an easy feat for me. It wasn’t until I got to know my true identity that I started to learn my likes and dislikes, as if I was rediscovering myself all over again. As we age, our sense of individuality can often be lost in the process of maturing, yet it is only when we identify who we are that feelings of confidence, self-esteem and joy can truly set in. That’s why I decided to build a brand that not only brings me happiness but which also celebrates my own character – creating from passion rather than purely for profit.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
At The Modern Alien, we’re helping to save the planet one outfit at a time! 80% of our items are up-cycled and thrifted – they’re funky, unique and just plain cool!
The business is run by Alexandria, a retired raver who never felt she fit in. She turned her creative talents to up-cycling clothes and creating something even more amazing. Forming something new from old bed sheets, pillow case or a pair of jeans is a challenge she thrives on.
The Modern Alien’s goal is to become a 100% up-cycled clothing shop and contribute to saving Mother Earth.
I have been featured in LA Music and Fashion Conference Fashion show, and also have a few collections with SHEIN’s Sustainable Fashion Program.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I’ve learned so much on my journey, especially the importance of failure, taking constructive criticism, and having the freedom to create. Failing has made me realize I can’t do everything right, but that doesn’t mean I can’t learn from it and move onto something else. Having creative freedom allows me to make things that make me truly happy, which adds passion and authenticity to my work – no matter what it is! It’s so fulfilling to do something that you love; that’s what resonates with others.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
I am grateful to my parents for instilling in me a strong sense of resilience. Even though I didn’t have the best childhood, it has pushed me to strive for a better life for my family and children. My hope is that they will have more opportunities than I did and go further in their achievements.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.TheModernAlien.com
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/TheModernAlien
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/TheModernAlienStore
