We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cali Shabazz. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cali below.
Hi Cali, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
My work ethic comes from My mother. She was a single mother raising 3 children and sometimes had to take on 3 jobs to support us. We never went without anything and we did every everything we wanted. I did balet, and country line dance as well as played the violin. My mom came to every recital, dance show, play etc.. She made being a parent look so easy. Although, now, myself know how hard it actually is and I thank her for that.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a Philadelphia Based Fashion Designer with a womenswear brand named Dear Laney. We are a contemporary bohemian brand that caters to the wanderlust within. Last year I launched my coffee business. My first blend was a dark roast and I had since sold 500 bags of it in my first year of launching. Which is a huge accomplishment as I had no real promotion for it only through my Dear Laney Site. This year we embark on our 10th year in business and we are celebrating that by launching a high end collection as well as our anniversary blend coffee beans.
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?
I believe my creativity, attention to detail and a strong understanding of trends and textiles. Effective communication skills, the ability to adapt to evolving trends, and a keen eye for aesthetics are also crucial in the field of fashion design. Additionally, resilience and perseverance can be beneficial in overcoming challenges within the industry. For aspiring fashion designers, I’d recommend:
1. **Cultivate Creativity:** Practice expressing your unique ideas through sketches, mood boards, and experimenting with different materials.
2. **Stay Informed:** Keep up with industry trends, attend fashion events, and study the work of established designers to understand current styles and market demands.
3. **Hone Technical Skills:** Develop proficiency in pattern-making, sewing, and other technical aspects of design. This hands-on knowledge is vital in bringing your creative visions to life.
4. **Build a Portfolio:** Showcase your best work in a well-curated portfolio. This is crucial when applying for schools or jobs in the fashion industry.
5. **Network:** Connect with professionals, attend fashion-related events, and seek mentorship. Networking can open doors to opportunities and provide valuable insights.
6. **Embrace Feedback:** Be open to constructive criticism. It’s a powerful tool for growth and refinement of your skills.
7. **Adaptability:** Given the dynamic nature of the fashion industry, stay adaptable to change. Embrace challenges and use them as learning opportunities.
Remember, persistence and continuous learning are key in the journey to becoming a successful fashion designer.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My father has been incarcerated since I was a baby so my mom really had a a tough time to adjust becoming a single parent. She is a powerhouse! I believe that she realized that it was all on her and now she had to do whatever it takes to make sure I was well taken care of. My mom has shown me that hard work beats talent hen talent doesn’t work hard. I always go the extra mile, try to master my craft so that now I can give my mom everything she’s given me times ten. The most impactful thing my mom did for me was believe in my art. That alone empowered me so much to pursue my dreams and aspirations and without that, I’m not sure where I’d be.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.xodearlaney.com
- Instagram: @xodearlaney
- Facebook: Dear Laney
- Linkedin: Dear Laney
- Other: “The Rad Girl Podcast” on apple podcasts and Spotify.
Image Credits
@rickycodio | @tayloredgenius
