FASHTALKS WITH J&R ARTISAN FASHION

What was your previous work experience before launching your brand?

Before launching this brand, I worked in the event and nightlife industries hosting events for nonprofit organizations and charities. 

What is your earliest design memory for J&R Artisan Fashion?

Although our design process has changed so much, one of our first designs was a unisex tee which was inspired by the city of Lagos in Africa! 

"We find most of our inspiration from different street and urban art concepts that are found in cities around the world."

Where do you find inspiration?

We find most of our inspiration from different street and urban art concepts that are found in cities around the world. Personally, I find the most inspiration from fashion titans like Elie Saab and Stella McCartney – one of the founders of ethical and sustainable fashion.

Do you have a favorite piece that you designed? 

My favorite piece would have to be the $aint! It is a customer favorite and one of the only pieces I designed myself! 

Who is your favorite designer?

Coco Chanel, without a doubt.

"We want our brand to be recognized for altering the perception of luxury labels."

What would you like your brand to be recognized for?

We want our brand to be recognized for altering the perception of luxury labels. J&R is passionately ethical and sustainable from both an ecological and humanitarian perspective. We give back to our network of nonprofit organizations with six percent of every sale!

How important is social media to your brand?

Social media is essential to our brand! We utilize social media as a medium for connecting with our customers and sharing the journey of our ever-evolving brand.

"More and more people, especially luxury fashion consumers, prefer labels that are ethical, sustainable and independent!"

Do you feel working in the fashion industry is different today than from when you started out? Why or why not?

I think fashion is gradually drifting towards more online concepts. In addition, independent brands are growing very quickly. More and more people, especially luxury fashion consumers, prefer labels that are ethical, sustainable and independent! 

How would you describe your personal style?

I would describe my style as minimal, yet bold – a combination of brave and mainstream. I have included these characteristics in the J&R clothing designs as well.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve heard? And do you follow it?

Start small – grow quick! It is one of the concepts which has allowed J&R to see such unprecedented success so quickly.