Women and Men clothing (Elle est/Il est) focusing on highly-detailed oriented garments to accomplish a sense of a one-of-a-kind experience.
6 - WHAT HAS HELPED PROMOTE YOUR CAREER IN FASHION?
It started when I was 10. I was obsessed with the entertainment industry, and knew I wanted to be immersed in music, fashion, and theater. I idolized Destiny's Child from their music to their fashion. With my background in music from singing in the church, I decided to form a R&B girl group of four. I didn't want to be solely a vocalist in the group; I wanted to be the visionary behind our look as well. It was at that moment, I began to learn how to put my designs on paper. When the group didn't take off, my passion for fashion continued to grow.
5 - WHICH DESIGNER WOULD YOU LIKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO COLLABORATE WITH?
I have three designers I would love to collaborate with: Haider Ackerman, Dolce&Gabbana, and Jeremy Scott. However, if I had to choose, Haider Ackerman would be my top choice. I love his aesthetic and his ability to juxtaposition fabrics and textures seamlessly. When I watch his runway shows, I see strength and confidence which is everything my brand represents.
4 - WHO INSPIRES YOU THE MOST IN FASHION?
My girl, Rihanna! Rihanna's style is a movement of her own. Her effortless sense of style and understanding of mixing prints and textures never misses a beat, in my opinion. It's her confidence that makes every piece/garment (even if deemed outlandish to the norm) works. She is truly a fashion icon.
3 - HOW DO YOU BALANCE CREATIVITY WITH COMMERCE?
Ultimately, you have to understand who your target market is and understand their lifestyle. I believe once you define those two things, your creativy won't have to be compromised by commerce. I believe my story, as well as other designers', is critical to the relationship with my consumers. It is my brand's message and aesthetic that gives me the platform to set myself apart from other designers.
2 - WHAT KIND OF FEEDBACK HAVE YOU BEEN RECEIVING ON YOUR LATEST COLLECTION? HOW HAS THE 2015/2016 SEASON BEEN FOR YOU SO FAR?
I'm really excited to share that I haven't received any negative feedbacks (fingers crossed). So far, I've received positive and really encouraging words that insures me that I'm on the right path. I'm just thankful to God and for all my supporters. #teamelleest
1 - WHERE DO YOU SEE THE ELLE EST BRAND IN 5 YEARS TIME?
In the next five years, I definitely see Elle Est Designs in the line up amongst other top designers of our time such as Proenza Schouler, Jeremy Scott, Balmain, and the list goes on. I see my brand having multiple store locations, and my stores being a hotspot on the top celebrities' list of places to shop.
