I felt like a new artist going into this process. Taking that time off to plan it out has made a huge difference. I found myself caught in this cycle of just trying to keep up with the fashion calendar, which has led me to produce collections in two weeks, four weeks, which reflected on the craftsmanship. And so this season, because I’ve been able to really take my time, I feel confident in the collection, I feel confident in my teams and I feel confident in the overall production that’s to come.
Aiyana Ishmael
TV: What has been the most difficult part of creating this collection? What has the past couple of weeks been like?
TA: The most difficult part is just the cost of everything. In the same way, inflation is affecting the grocery store and stuff. The prices of everything are astronomical in the garment district and just beyond. So I think the most difficult thing has been using the best sort of fabrics and resources out there without breaking the bank.
TV: What are you excited for people to see once this collection walks down the runway on Sunday?
TA: I’m excited for people to see my heritage and culture and sort of step into this world. I’ve been telling everyone that we’re bringing a taste of Lagos to New York, but aside from that, I’m excited for them to see the craftsmanship and the brand’s growth. I always like to look back and review previous collections to see where I can improve, where there’s room for growth, and the pieces that people really loved.
Even just the silhouettes that I’m most recognized by – my ruffles, et cetera, I didn’t lose those within this collection. So they’re still very much in the collection. I would say they’re elevated. I think it’s going to be an excellent experience for my community and my audience to really enter into my brain and my world and just see my appreciation for my heritage and just my experiences along the way, especially in the making of the collection.
TV: I love that you mentioned the ruffles are still there, but it’s elevated. How do you feel like you’ve grown as a designer?
TA: I started this in my dorm room at the New School, just messing around. I had no clue what I was really doing. I also switched my major from fashion design at Parsons to culture and media at Lang almost immediately. So, I didn’t have the fashion design background that many of my peers do. So, with experience, I’m just learning. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve recognized the importance of quality and craftsmanship and also just being more innovative and expanding. Right here, there’s this little spiral earring that says Tia Adeola.
