Fashion designer Brandin Vaughn is collaborating on a big production in September. The “100 Looks Fashion Show” celebrates Vaughn’s career milestone of designing 1,000 garments. It takes place on Thursday, Sept. 12, at the Marquee Lounge in St. Louis.
After attending the Art Institute of Chicago, Vaughn, now a married father of two, came home to St. Louis with a commitment to build his business in a city with a rich fashion history.
Why did you choose South St. Louis for your boutique location?
The Cherokee business district is an up–and–coming area for small business owners. It boasts an attraction for a variety of individuals, including those in my clientele. Things are developing quickly in this area, and it was a smart choice for me to bring my establishment there, and build a foundation before the stakes become too high for small businesses. And as a man of color, I also saw a unique opportunity to become an influence on the neighboring young men of color in the area. It was my chance to show them another way an African American man can be successful.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
When I am creating garments, there are three key elements that must translate into each piece: sophistication, elegance and a pinch of edge. The harmonious mix of these elements creates a style that is simply classic and outstands the boundaries of time.
Why did you choose fashion design as a career?
I didn’t realize it when I was young, but fashion and sewing have always been a part of my life. My mother worked for a uniform company, and I grew up surrounded by fabric swatches, tape measures, needles, pins, etc., which planted a seed in me. As I grew older, my relationship with fashion changed. Being a young teenager, I, like everyone else, wanted to wear the latest fashions, but did not have the means to do so. So I got creative: I would shop at Goodwill stores, purchase brand name, but dated clothing, and would remix the garment. It’s what we call “upcycling” today. As I wore my remixed clothing, other people took notice and wanted my creations, and would gladly pay for them. Again, my relationship with fashion shifted as I realized I could make money from what I created. This took me well into my adult years, and my passion for fashion steadily grew, taking me to the point where I truly enjoy helping my clients feel and look their best. Thinking back on it now, I feel as though fashion chose me, and my relationship with it has evolved into something I truly love to do.
What has been your greatest milestone?
Since opening, I have produced over 1,000 garments. This may seem small, but when you put it into perspective, this is an amazing feat. As the sole designer, I create each pattern, cut each fabric to the pattern, and sew all the fabric pieces to construct a final garment. To say that I have done this process for over 1,000 garments without the assistance of a manufacturer is an incredible milestone of which I am very proud.
What is your biggest challenge?
While producing over 1,000 garments is a great achievement, as a small business owner and entrepreneur, this is not sustainable. It has been a challenge making sure the integrity of my product and service is not lost or diminished, but strengthened in expansion.
What is your favorite part of being a designer?
I love the process of creating new ideas for garments every day, because I see the journey from start to finish. I love that from the design process a beautiful garment is created, and this garment itself translates into confidence for my clients. To see a client stand taller than before and feel beautiful in something I made is a remarkable feeling. I’d like to say I am changing the world one stitch at a time.
For more information and tickets to the “100 Looks Fashion Show,” visit brandinvaughn.com.
