Today we’d like to introduce you to Joey Van Ryan.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Fashion was what interested me as a child. I thrived on wearing something that stood out and was original. I studied in the design program at the University of North Texas where I graduated with my BFA in Fashion Design.
Shortly after, I was thrown in the deep end of the industry with prestigious local companies. They ranged from fair trade apparel, cheer wear, kids wear, and activewear. The constant thing that kept me going was that I was learning a lot about the apparel industry and what my work expected of me. Soon after working for various employers, I said to myself, I don’t want to keep making designs to please my boss or my superiors. I want to make clothes that I think are dope. Clothes that make you say hold on..we got something awesome here.
I’ve always been a dedicated, hard working guy who has passion in his blood. I just wish that I could’ve told myself earlier on, you have the passion, the drive, and the creativity to do it. I’m glad I listened to my instincts. I started Joey Van Ryan, officially, in the Summer of 2019. I released my debut collection which was welcomed with our brand launch that summer and the reviews was spectacular. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to start this journey and I cannot thank enough to everyone who has supported me along the way.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
You know, working with companies, you have to mold to what they like. There was this one employer who knew my design potential. They told me that my designs were “an insult to the company.” This really confused me because up till then, peers loved my work. Shortly after, they let me go. A few months later, I discovered they stole my designs. It infuriated me.
I’ll say this because I’ve heard it before but I’m glad this happened because this lit a fire under my rear. The minute someone tells you, you’re doing something wrong or it’s not “right”, that tells you Hey, you got something there dude. It’s worth exploring more. I guess this concept doesn’t work in every career field, but in mine in particular, it did. This was one of the pushing forces for me to start my brand.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I want everyone to know that my brand, Joey Van Ryan, is a unique, dope, designer brand. I’ve cultivated the aesthetic of the brand to be the sweetest gear you could wear, like a gummi bear. You “treat” yourself to something rad to wear that really turns heads, in the good way!
I always wanted to design a line where everyone has something sweet in their wardrobe. Whether it’s for a special occasion, a red carpet event, or just to strut down the street in a light rain, Joey Van Ryan creates one-of-a-kind clothing for one-of-a-kind people. I create versatile pieces that you can wear to get drinks with a friend or go to cocktail events too. My vision is that you can wear them with anything and wear them anywhere. The wow factor is already there, you just have to wear it.
When it comes to custom pieces, we’re the bomb dot com. I’ve designed outfits for local famous musicians in the deep ellum neighborhood, I’ve even won a design contest where I submitted a “Cher” inspired tracksuit. Cher, HERSELF, selected me as the winner. I’ve done pretty amazing things, and this is only the beginning!
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Up till now my most favorite moment to think back on was the Cher contest! Cher released a contest where you had to create a look inspired by her newest fragrance “Cher Eau De Couture”.
I immediately told myself I’ve got this. I spent two days designing/sewing the idea in my head which was a bomber jacket and sweatpants. I finished it, took photos, and posted them on Instagram.
Didn’t hear anything till the following Monday, where Cher announced the winner on her Instagram and everyone was going crazy. At first, I was in denial, till I check myself and Cher had my photo post on her Instagram story. She even told me the best compliment that a designer could hear ever! She said my tracksuit was like a Bob Mackie Tracksuit.
I was OVER THE MOON! I was so beyond thrilled and speechless. I got a personal shout out from Cher herself, I won tickets to go see her in Dallas and a personally signed perfume bottle from her.
Truly the best way to end 2019 and my proudest achievement yet!
Pricing:
- Womens’ Tops – $35-$55
- Women’s Bottoms/Skirts – $40-$50
- Mens’ Tops- $50-$90
- Men’s Bottoms – $35-$50
- Custom – $40-$200
Contact Info:
- Address: Joey Van Ryan4001 Ross Ave#132Dallas, TX 75204
- Website: www.joeyvanryan.com
- Phone: 940-735-8681
- Email: joey@joeyvanryan.co
- Instagram: https://www.
instagram.com/joeyvanryan/ - Facebook: https://www.
facebook.com/joeyvanryan/ - Twitter: https://twitter.com/
joeyvanryan - Other: https://www.snapchat.
com/add/joeyvanryan
Image Credit:
IzzyRoller Photography
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