We were lucky to catch up with Lauryn Haygood (Lola) recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Lauryn Haygood, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Coming into college, I had interests in being a physical therapist. This stemmed from playing sports and being on a healthcare pathway in college. It wasn’t until my sophomore year of college that I decided to do a complete 180 and become an Apparel and Textiles major at Kennesaw State. This raised many questions amongst my family, friends and peers. A lot of feedback I was receiving was not in a supporting manner. As sure as I was in those moments about being a fashion major, the lack of support fueled my fire. As I dove into my major, I began to learn more about fashion, fabrics, my style and designing.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a new and upcoming fashion designer. I am the CEO of a clothing brand named IV3Y. At IV3Y, we make custom pieces for men and women. Our current collection includes men’s corduroy pants, women’s fringe and distressed pants and shorts, unisex waist cropped knit hoodies and more! I released IV3Y on August 6th 2023, which was my 21st birthday. I dedicated my brand to my late great grandma, Josie May Ivey. As she did, IV3Y represents love, individuality, creativity and fun.
I recently revamped my website (www.iv333y.com) to include universal sizes for customers unable to get measurements taken. New products and launches will be coming in October. STAY TUNED!
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 being patient, being teachable, and being fearless in my creativity have impacted me the most. Starting a business alone is probably one of the hardest if not the hardest way to do it. These 10 months have been LONG, but I have learned a lot of necessary skills and information. I am in college for fashion but I also make it my business to learn from the people around me, places around me, resources I have access to and not just wait for information to come to me. Going the extra mile to educate yourself and be taught from the smallest things will put you ahead even the slightest. We live in a world full of creatives. You have to be confident in and be open minded about your art and craft whatever that may be. Never limit your mind. Your imagination is one of your greatest strengths. Lean into that!
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
I feel overwhelmed frequently with being a full time college student and a new business owner. I try to take time out of my days to decompress. For me that looks like music, nature, fruit or all of the above. Being in nature keeps me grounded. Fruit keeps me full and refreshed. Music keeps me sane and balanced. This may not be the best method for everyone but take time to figure out what makes you feel grounded, peaceful, balanced and refreshed. Make that a routine and take care of yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.iv333y.com
- Instagram: @4.iv333y @lolatheebunnyy
