Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dawn Parkins. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Dawn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Looking back, do you think you started your business at the right time? Do you wish you had started sooner or later?

Looking back at it, yes – yes, I would’ve listened to my calling when I was younger. In college you have UNLIMITED access and all the time under the sun. Friends, family, even strangers would ask me, “why aren’t you in fashion, you have a great eye.” But, growing up you’re told art doesn’t pay the bills. Even though I graduating with a Bachelors in Criminology, I still kept my heart in the arts in everything I did. I even took a Fashion in Politics course. After spending a decade in my degree, I realized money may pay bills, but if I’m going to do something for the REST of my life I might as well be happy doing it. I started my business officially in my late 20s. Getting more into fashion shows, networking events, and entertainment- social media is KEY !! An advantage I have however is I grew up through it ALL, a disadvantage is trying to now balance “adulting” with creative growth.

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

I’m a tomboy at heart, I just dress girly. I believe fashion is what you make it, it’s a form of self-expression without saying a word. Born in Brooklyn in the 80s, I was a product of the War on Drugs. Adopted by a single-mother, we learned to make do. Having to wear uniforms to public school, the summer time was my time to shine. Polka Dot sets, Daisy dukes, faded Jordache jeans and my Fisher Price roller-skates – you couldn’t tell me anything.

However, as I grew up, my wardrobe changed to hand-me-downs and safety-pins and sewing kits became my BESTIES. “Borrowing” my older brother’s sneakers and sweatshirts, I learned to mix textures, sizes, and cuts.

I teach my clients that capture their quintessential selves. My business is StyleonaPinch where you can find fashion for your budget and on your time. Last minute meeting, I have you covered. Trying to stay within a budget, I have you covered. Invited to an event and don’t know what to wear, I have you covered. Re-doing your wardrobe or just need a refresh, I have you covered. I specialize in making your life less complicated. I am a stylist who dances to the muse in your soul!!

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

StyleonaPinch is community-based. Its goal is to be able to provide clothing to those in need. Many of us have, or know someone who has started a job but is already behind on bills by the time they get their first check (because let’s be honest they were behind at the interview). At StyleonaPinch we aim to provide a month’s worth of working clothes, with wardobing and styling tips to show the client how to make the most of their closets. Unfortunately, what you look like to others can be the difference between being passed over or promoted. This is where we come in, to provide those in need with interview clothes, as well as, items to get them stable.

Can you share your view on NFTs? (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)

Can we say DEMOLITION MAN!! As I mentioned before, I grew up through it ALL. With currency costing more to make than it’s worth, virtual reality is the future. Matter-of-fact it’s been around for generations. I believe NFTs are going to be the future, the more and more people become connecting with technology. You thought SIMS was something, now you are really able to create a whole world with access to people across all cultural backgrounds. NFTs will allow your business to reach people across the world without the barrier. Also, allowing you to be even more creative as you can take your ideas now and make them more of a reality.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: StyleonaPinch
• Facebook: StyleonaPinch
• Linkedin: Dawn S Parkins
• Other: IG : NeimanMarcusCharlotte

Image Credits
Photos By : Bryan Lindsay IG – ShotbyLindsay