We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ashleigh Yancy. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ashleigh below.
Ashleigh , appreciate you joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
The beginning of my design journey, started with my grandmothers. On my mother’s side, we made doll patterns out of Kroger bags and dresses out of pillowcases. On my father’s side, we flipped through fashion catalogs, and it sparked an interest in styling (and shopping) in me. Once I made it to high school, I had graduated to actual commercial patterns, the discovering of YouTube, and a used brother machine gifted by my parents. Throughout high school and college I dabbled in reconstruction (altering readymade pieces to create new ones), and learned the basics of simple seams, and button/zipper closures. Generally speaking, the bulk of my learning has been from YouTube, (yes… you read that right), asking other seamstresses, and of course trial and error. Even though I attended a college fashion program for 2 years, I still had/have ALOT of unanswered questions on the construction of a garment, the right fabrics to use, as well as how to make my own patterns. The great thing about being a creator though, is the constant improvement of skills, so what I don’t know now, with time, I will know soon.
Honestly, in starting my journey with limited resources, and no connections in the fashion industry, the best advice I would have given to my younger self would be to start watching instructional videos earlier, create garments for my friends, and use smartphones to have small grade photoshoots. I think starting small, and early, is better than not starting at all. You can make garments out of anything (bedsheets, curtains, old clothing/fabric), so just staying consistent in creation is really the best way to succeed. I get it, fear can really hold you back, but no matter what age you are, please- start now. Do what you can.
The most essential skill to learning a craft is patience. Patience with yourself to know that you may not have resources, and answers but you have God, your brain, and will power- that’s really all you need. I started out hand sewing for years until my family could afford an actual machine, and even then, I let that machine sit for months untouched. One of the biggest obstacles that stood in the way of learning was my own mind. Comparison, self-doubt, and embracing ignorance towards how to move forward. The other was lack of money. Not being able to afford high quality equipment, fabric, or classes to strengthen my skills, but believe it or not, it’s more common than not. What you choose to conquer now, will be erased in the future.
My goal now is to encourage all creatives that:
1. It’s okay to not have a title, we are multi-passionate
2. It’s okay to not have resources/money- there are ways around these obstacles
3. It’s okay to have moments of hesitance/doubt towards what we do. It’s a risky but rewarding career path to take.
Learning the craft takes time, you should forever be evolving in whatever you do. Learn from my mistakes, and be your best self- starting TODAY!!
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
My name is Ashleigh Yancy, I’m 24 years old, and to put it plainly: I am an overall creative, born in Memphis, TN. I am made with love and extra curves, my country accent comes out when I’m mad, and I’m very adventurous. The titles I currently hold are: Fashion/Costume Designer, Wardrobe Stylist, Graphic Designer, Photographer, and counting (LOL!) I’ve been told I’m the nicest designer to grace the runway, and most of the time youngest as well. I’m camera shy believe it or not, and I’m the biggest motivator.
My main passion is my Luxury Streetwear brand- AYJAH, based out of Murfreesboro, TN. I started this brand in 2017, to change the fashion industry, one design at a time. We offer unique designs for Men and Women sizes XS-3X (custom sizes available for all designs), We bridge the gap between casual and glam, creating signature AYJAH looks that complement the individual. Our slogan is “Live Boldly”, because we believe clothes should conform to the individual- not the other way around. AYJAH is merely a reflection/extension of you- because YOU are the important factor to us. I started this brand to promote inclusivity, adaptability, and sustainability- three factors the fashion industry is still growing in. I am most proud of the partners/team I’ve made over the years. It’s really about empowering the community for me. “Collaboration over Competition”, has been a personal goal I’ve kept in mind over the years.
We work with everyone, so if you’re reading this, please send us an email ([email protected]) or DM (@ayjah.co) on Instagram if you are interested. We welcome multi-passionate creators in our circle. No matter who you are- we can make a spot for you (Photographers, Models, Wardrobe Stylists, Brand Ambassadors, Content Creators, etc). We pride ourselves in creating safe spaces for creators in any caliber, because that is what our brand is for- the creative individual. We host events, and stay consistent in projects, so trust me- there’s always work to be done. We just want to grow, give back to the community, and reach those who are searching for their purpose in the fashion industry.
My goals moving forward with the brand is to secure a manufacturing company, as all designs are- you guessed it, currently made by yours truly! I would also love to elevate to a brick and mortar, gather high status clientele, as well as travel with the brand Internationally. We have big goals over here and are truly grateful for the journey thus far.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
The best way to support an artist is to invest in that artist. The best thing about supporting an artist, is that it can be completely free! Leaving a like or comment, resharing a post, or just sending an encouraging message to that person truly helps. Donating materials, funds, or covering fees is also a very effective way to help the artist grow. The biggest way however is to of course buy the artists products, or even attend their shows/exhibits. It’s a simple formula artist + support = company. Those companies create an ecosystem, that with cultivation can last forever. The next time you see that painted vase or dress at Walmart, ask yourself, “Is there someone I know who could create this for me?” I guarantee that if you find that person, a little more love will be in that design, making it an even more memorable piece for your home or closet.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding part of being a creator is the ability to create from the heart. There’s nothing like creating something out of happiness, sadness, or even anger and seeing the finished product in all its glory. To wake up daily and have an avenue to express yourself is a blessing in itself. Art should be an extension of self, a way to explore within, and communicate with others. It’s something to be appreciated, and that appreciation from self and others makes it worthwhile.
Contact Info:
- Website: AYJAH.COM
- Instagram: @ayjah,co
- Facebook: AYJAH
Image Credits
Ashley Rashell, Feroce Styling
Models: Sakeema Muhammad Leslie Smith Photographers: (Sakeema) Drae Brown (Leslie) Aijahlon Yancy Creative Director: Brianna Edwards Wardrobe Stylist: La Unique Woods Venue: Flash Me Xperience- Nichole Nunn