Alaysha McClinton shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Alaysha, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
On October 15, 2025, I took a bold step of faith by entering FWD Fashion Group’s Autumn Renaissance fashion show—a competition that also offered the winner a business grant. This was a huge milestone for me since I haven’t done a fashion show since graduating college in 2019. Honestly, between then and now, I struggled with confidence in who I was as a designer and often found myself stuck in analysis paralysis. But by this summer, I was ready to move forward—choosing to fully trust that God was with me and would equip me for the journey ahead. I’m proud to say I won the grant, but even more proud that I took the leap of faith to begin again.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My love for art started early — I was drawing on everything, even the walls (sorry, Mom and Dad!). That creativity soon turned into sketching clothes, draping blankets into dresses on myself and strutting that blanket around the house like it was a runway.
My passion grew when I assisted my mentor, Ozella Hailey, with costume design for church plays and praise dancers. Not long after, I got my first sewing machine, started taking classes, fixing my clothes that didn’t fit me, and at 13, created my sister’s prom dress — my first Laysha & Co. custom.
Having struggled to find clothes that fit, I wanted others to have pieces that reflect who they are and who they’re created to be. Laysha & Company was born from that desire — to be good company to our clients, encouraging them to make bold statements, step out of their comfort zones, and embrace their true identity. Set apart, created to stand out.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was selling pillows at my church’s spring festival. I felt like a young entrepreneur — confident, creative, and full of purpose. When I sold out, it was such an encouraging and affirming experience that showed me what I was capable of.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
This year, I learned that there’s beauty in suffering. You might ask, how can something beautiful come out of pain? It’s easy to focus on the negative when walking through hard seasons, but I’ve learned that those moments are actually opportunities to surrender everything to God and trust that He will fight our battles.
In doing that, I experienced His strength when I was at my weakest. Because of my faith, God sustained me and gave me the courage to keep going — and through that, I discovered the beauty that can rise from the ashes. Success is temporary, but God’s love is everlasting.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie is that the fashion industry is oversaturated. Yes, there are a lot of people in this industry — but because everyone is uniquely made, there will always be room for fresh perspectives. There’s an opportunity for every designer to serve others in a way that only they can.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
I would fully regret not pursuing my business. The scariest thing for me would be leaving this earth without walking in what God created me to do. I genuinely believe He’s called me to connect with people through fashion — not just through clothing, but through identity, confidence, and purpose.
Custom designs, one-of-ones, and even small batching give me the chance to offer people a unique and authentic experience. Fashion is my ministry in its own way. It’s how I serve, uplift, and remind people that they were intentionally crafted by God.
If I didn’t pursue that calling, I’d miss the opportunity to impact the lives I’m meant to touch. That’s a regret I refuse to have.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://layshaco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laysha_co?igsh=MXIybWZtNGRtYnNiNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17iB6iYuPj/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Portrait photo: ig @jatalley
Photos 1-4 (Refined Collection): ig @spaceshipboi
Last photo: ig @jatalley
