Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandi Brown.
Hi Brandi, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started my fashion journey right out of high school when I attended Berkeley College in White Plains, NY, studying Fashion Marketing and Management. About two years in, I decided to leave school because I wasn’t sure what I wanted from a career in fashion or what that career would look like for me. At the time, I was disappointed in myself, and I knew my parents were disappointed as well.
While I was back home, I spent a lot of time watching DIY sewing tutorials on YouTube. I came across a creator named Misha, whose step-by-step tutorials made sewing feel approachable and achievable. I became inspired and asked my mom if she thought I could learn to sew. She encouraged me to go for it, so we went to Walmart, bought my first sewing machine and the materials I needed, and I started learning.
I began with simple pieces like tops and pencil skirts, and before I knew it, I had created an entire dress on my dress form. That moment sparked a passion for fashion design that I never knew I had. I continued learning, developing my craft, creating garments for others, and eventually presenting collections during New York Fashion Week. I’ve created garments ranging from swimwear to sweatsuits, but Over time, I discovered that evening wear was where I felt most connected creatively, and it became my niche.
I’ve been designing as a self taught designer since 2014, earned my associate degree in Apparel Design in 2022, and I’m currently completing my bachelor’s degree in Fashion Marketing and Merchandising at Arkansas State University. In a way, it feels like a full circle moment I’m finally finishing what I started at the beginning of my fashion journey, but now with a much clearer understanding of who I am as a creative and where I want to take my career.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road because being self taught means you have to work through your mistakes while you’re still learning. There were definitely times when I had to take a step back, figure out what went wrong, and try again. But I think that’s also the fun part about being a creative. Being able to work through problems, come up with solutions, and see an idea come to life makes the challenges worth it. Every mistake has taught me something and helped me grow not only as a designer, but as a creative.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a self taught fashion designer turned apparel design degree holder, specializing in evening wear and custom evening dresses. I’ve had my work pulled by celebrity stylists such as J. Bolin, and I’ve had the pleasure of creating a custom look for singer Toni Braxton. I think what I’m most proud of is having my name spoken in rooms that I’m not in and seeing my work reach people all over the world.
What sets me apart is the personal experience I create for each client. Every garment I make is created from the client’s individual measurements, rather than simply designing for a standard size. I love the process of taking someone’s vision, understanding their body and personal style, and creating something specifically for them. It makes the experience more special not only for the client, but for me as a designer as well.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Honestly, my favorite childhood memory is just being able to be a kid. I didn’t have many worries, and I was surrounded by people who took care of me and made me feel safe. One memory that always makes me smile is performing in front of my family to Brandy’s “I Wanna Be Down.” I used to put on little performances and honestly aspired to be a singer when I was younger! Looking back, I think that’s probably where some of my love for performing and being creative started.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_bqueenboutique_/
