Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Lafrance

Hi Laura, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?

Chapter 1: Threads of Dreams

The world of fashion wasn’t always my runway. Born and raised with Caribbean heritage, practicality was a strong thread in my upbringing. Becoming a fashion designer felt like a whimsical dream, a secret passion I tucked away while pursuing a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse. It wasn’t what set my soul on fire, but it provided stability, a quality my family highly valued.

One day, I decided to take a leap of faith. I began sharing my story on YouTube, a platform where I could express my true passion for fashion design. It wasn’t always easy. There were moments of doubt, whispers from within telling me this path was frivolous. But with each stitch, each design that came to life, my heart resonated with a deep sense of fulfillment.

Chapter 2: Breaking the Mold

Although supportive, my family couldn’t quite see fashion design as a viable career option. Their encouragement leaned towards the security of nursing. But the creative fire within me burned bright. I knew I had to forge my own path.

Fueled by the positive response on YouTube and my growing design skills, I decided to take the plunge. With the experience I gained freelancing, I launched Laura Lafrance LLC in 2017. Finally, I was the captain of my own creative ship.

Chapter 3: Blossoming as a Designer

My initial focus was on resort wear, crafting elegant and intricate designs for women like myself. I envisioned a world where fashion was about more than just trends; it was about timeless elegance and effortless charm. My collections weren’t à la carte; they were curated experiences, available for pre-order exclusively on my website.

It was a one-woman show, fueled by passion and late nights. But seeing my creations come to life, worn by confident women, was an unparalleled reward.

Chapter 4: Evolving with Inspiration

The fashion world is a living, breathing entity, constantly evolving. As my experience grew, so did my vision. While I continue to offer design services, I’ve recently shifted my focus towards sharing my knowledge.

Through workshops and educational programs, I aim to empower aspiring designers to chase their creative dreams. The journey may not be easy, but the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and unique is a feeling I want to share with the world.

This is just the beginning of my story. The world of fashion is my canvas, and I’m excited to see what vibrant designs the future holds.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

I can think of 3 main barriers:
Overcoming Familial Expectations: Coming from a Caribbean background, the focus was likely on practical careers like nursing. Pursuing fashion design was seen as a less secure path, creating some friction with my family, particularly my father.

Balancing Act: While establishing my design career, I also juggled a full time nursing job. This demanded immense dedication and time management skills.

Building a Brand: Launching a one-woman design business requires significant effort. Securing clientele, managing finances, and marketing myself were the initial hurdles.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

While I’m known for my resort-wear designs, I also offer pattern-making and sampling services to help emerging designers who need a more hands-on approach. My personalized approach gives them intimate access to valuable resources that might be difficult for them to find on their own. This sets me apart from larger companies. If you’re a new designer just starting out and need help creating your first pattern before going into production (no matter the size of your production run), I can be the right mentor and coach for you.

What matters most to you? Why?

At the heart of everything I do lies a love for fashion design. Creating beautiful and timeless pieces that empower women brings me immense joy. But lately, another passion has emerged – empowering aspiring designers. Witnessing their creative journeys fueled by my knowledge is incredibly rewarding. Perhaps it’s a way of giving back to the industry that has given me so much. Maybe it’s building a network of future collaborators. Ultimately, it’s about leaving a legacy, one stitch and one inspired designer at a time.

Pricing:

• 3 first patterns Basic Package $2500
• 5 first patterns Intermediate Package $5000
• Large collection, please call!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lauralafrance.com

Image Credits

All taken by me through my iPhone.