Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Leola-Christine Titus-Morris. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Leola-Christine, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
From my earliest forays into design during the innocent days of elementary school, my love for shaping ideas into tangible expressions of creativity marked the genesis of a dream that would grow and blossom. Photography, an unexpected entry into my creative journey, transformed into a thriving business at the tender age of 11. Interestingly, though, the world of fashion had yet to weave itself into the narrative.
As the years passed, my entrepreneurial spirit matured. The pivotal age of 14, set against the backdrop of a global quarantine, saw the birth of Fashion Field Studio (FFS). It stood as a testament to the evolution of my dreams, fueled not only by a desire to explore the depths of the fashion realm but also by an inherent urge to contribute to the well-being of others.
FFS’s growth transcended mere expansion; it evolved into a multifaceted entity with three smaller companies and a podcast, all intricately threaded into the tapestry of community engagement. This journey, far from a solitary pursuit of personal growth, was about creating connections and elevating those within my orbit. The core vision of FFS broke through the conventional boundaries of business, placing community impact at its heart.
As a young entrepreneur, threading my way through the challenges of adolescence and the intricate landscape of business, the mission crystallized – to amplify voices, offer affordable fashion alternatives, and cultivate a space where diverse narratives seamlessly converge. The journey unfolded from the crucible of creativity, transitioning from early childhood design endeavors to the establishment of a burgeoning photography business and finally the dynamic evolution of Fashion Field Studio.
Every step has been a deliberate and conscious stride toward a future that is not only more inclusive but profoundly impactful. The story, animated by a passion for community, a deep appreciation for individual expression, and an unwavering commitment to societal betterment, continues to unfold. The driving force behind my business extends beyond personal success; it’s about proving that Black girls, like anyone else, can achieve greatness and making a lasting, meaningful mark in the vibrant landscape of fashion.
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.
Fashion Field Studio (FFS) aspires to showcase diverse brands and influential figures in contemporary times. Our focus is on individuals passionate about beauty, fashion, and retail, specifically targeting Gen Z, Millennials, women, LGBTQ+, and POC fashion/beauty creators. FFS features a diverse array of individuals each month, spanning poets, photographers, fashion enthusiasts and anyone who needs a voice. In this era where numerous voices seek expression, our mission is to amplify these voices, fostering a collective journey towards a more inclusive and enlightened society.
Fashion Field Studio stands as the umbrella brand for three distinct ventures. Teen FeAver specializes in affordable yet stylish clothing for young adults. At Teen FeAver, we believe that age is just a number, and our clothing reflects this philosophy. Each garment is carefully curated to evoke a sense of playfulness and charm, ensuring you feel forever young when you wear our clothes. Our commitment lies in offering high-quality products at an accessible price point, with each item priced below $20. By maintaining affordability without compromising quality, we aim to cater to individuals seeking superior products without the burden of exorbitant costs.
While Calla Lily offers natural skincare products, promoting confidence in one’s skin. Our products are crafted to make you feel comfortable in your own skin, by enhancing your natural glow. The moment you indulge in our skincare, you embark on a journey that transcends conventional beauty norms. You’ll feel the warmth of self-love and the coziness of embracing your authentic self.
The Official Society, a luxury/streetwear brand. We redefine elegance through a collection blending sophistication and innovation. Their designs, from timeless classics to avant-garde expressions, transcend the ordinary, each piece meticulously crafted to embody luxury and artistry. Graphic prints serve as a canvas for personal expression, going beyond trends to encapsulate moments, emotions, and cultural influences. The brand invites you to join an exclusive community appreciating design artistry and individual expression, offering pieces seamlessly integrated into your daily narrative. It’s not just a brand; it’s a lifestyle.
Can you talk to us about manufacturing? How’d you figure it all out? We’d love to hear the story.
Before diving into the realm of my brand, I made a deliberate decision to handle manufacturing differently for each venture within Fashion Field Studio. While Teen FeAver involves buying wholesale, and The Official Society relies on purchasing blanks to infuse with my designs, Calla Lily, my skincare and body product line, takes a hands-on, artisanal approach.
The decision not to find an external manufacturer stemmed from various considerations. For Teen FeAver and The Official Society, I opted for wholesale and blanks respectively to maintain a level of creative control. This allowed me to curate designs and styles that resonated with the essence of each brand, ensuring a unique and authentic touch.
In the case of Calla Lily, the decision to handcraft skincare and body products was motivated by a desire for a more personalized and intimate connection with the products. This hands-on approach not only aligns with the brand’s ethos but also adds a distinctive, artisanal touch to each item.
Navigating this manufacturing journey has been a continuous learning experience. The key lesson is the importance of balance – striking the right balance between creative control, cost-effectiveness, and maintaining quality standards. Managing the logistics of sourcing wholesale items for Teen FeAver, selecting suitable blanks for The Official Society, and meticulously crafting skincare products for Calla Lily has honed my understanding of the intricacies involved in manufacturing.
Additionally, the journey has underscored the significance of finding reliable suppliers and ensuring a transparent and collaborative relationship. Whether sourcing wholesale garments or blanks, establishing strong connections with vendors has been vital in maintaining the integrity of my brand’s vision.
Ultimately, the decision to eschew external manufacturing for certain aspects of my business has allowed for a more hands-on, authentic approach. It’s a journey marked by creativity, adaptability, and a commitment to delivering products that resonate with the ethos of Fashion Field Studio and its diverse ventures.
Have you ever had to pivot?
Starting my business in 2020, especially while being in high school, brought a bunch of challenges my way. Dealing with school problems even before I started my business was tough and took a toll on my mental health. It felt like I wasn’t getting the right treatment or support. In my sophomore year, which was in 2021, I decided to make a big change heading into 2022 – I left my school and started doing homeschooling. It was a scary decision to leave something so familiar, but it turned out to be my best decision, even though it was really tough.
In 2022, I finally got to focus on both myself and my business. Being able to balance my life was a game-changer. Leaving my high school early allowed me to graduate at the age of 16 with my degree. Taking that risk turned out to be a big deal, and it’s true what they say – sometimes, good things come when you take a chance.
The year 2022 brought many opportunities, not just for my business but also for me personally. I even had the chance to do a TedTalk. Looking back, making that tough decision to pivot my education was a turning point that opened up doors for me in unexpected ways.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Fashionfieldstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leolatitusmorris?igsh=ZjhmMnN3ZWhqcGZr&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@leolatitusmorris?si=bZ6_jRRE3k1DWv4r
- Other: Buisness page: https://www.instagram.com/fashionfieldstudio?igsh=MWNpZTl1anlrdmg4Nw== @teen_feaver @callalilycosmetiques @theofficalsociety @unbuttoned.down
Image Credits
All photos are owned by Fashion Field Studio