Never trust the naysayers who tell you that it isn’t the right time or that you’re not in the right place to excel in your chosen field. Fashion designer, Aneesha Ballard, forged ahead and has made her mark on the fashion scene in South Carolina and beyond. Through hard work and determination, she has honed her craft and is known for her unique and cutting-edge couture designs. Read on and get to know Aneesha Ballard and Luxury Vogue Couture. TCL: What do you want readers to know about you…about Aneesha? AB: I am a Christian, a mother, and a widow-in that order. Fashion is my first love but had always been a dream deferred for me. I was always told that you couldn't be a fashion designer and live in South Carolina. For a long time I believed that. I went to college and majored in business management and cosmetology. I always knew I wasn't maximizing my full potential. I became a shopaholic, always searching for that one outfit or accessory that would make me feel complete. TCL: What motivated you to pursue clothing design? AB: One day while watching Project Runway my son asked "how long are you going to watch other people make clothes and just wish you could?" The next day I took a $35 sewing class and it literally changed my life! I became obsessed with making a straight stitch. I ran out and purchased my own sewing machine. I took every fashion course available online and off. I enrolled in the Art Institute and began to attend fashion and textile shows. I began selling my garments on social media and the business literally grew itself. I don't advertise on TV or radio. My clients simply get noticed and BOOM I get another client! I have clients in other states who have seen my work and contact me. I love that! I even dress some of the same people that told me I couldn't be a designer here in South Carolina. God proved that if you bloom where you're planted, your gift will make room for you! TCL: What makes your brand unique? AB: Luxury Vogue Couture is a fashion house. All garments are designed and custom made by me, Aneesha Ballard. We are unique in that I never make the same garment twice! You will never see someone else wearing the same outfit as you! Our motto is "Why fit in when you can stand out!?" The name Luxury Vogue Couture consists of my three favorite words in fashion. I grew up longing for luxurious things as most of us did. My only glimpses into fashion as a child were Vogue magazines that my neighbor would collect and give to me. Couture is what I do....design high fashion. LVC! TCL: How would you describe the custom items that you make? AB: I custom make gowns, club wear, and ready to wear garments. I also style photo shoots and offer private sewing classes. TCL: What has been your greatest accomplishment so far? AB: Wow! That's hard to say. Starting the business was something I never thought I could do, so establishing my brand means the world to me. I am a feature designer in Glam The Runway, an annual Breast Cancer Fashion Show held in Charlotte. It's an honor and privilege to dress survivors. It means so much to me. If I'm honest though I would have to say that having someone walk up to me at the mall, grocery store or wherever and say " you're the girl that designs clothes right?" That right there.....I love that! My peers recognizing my talent is the best! TCL: Are any new projects or events in the works for your company? AB: Yes, we are getting ready to launch a new website. I have just been offered a position as a custom designer for Juliet’s Bridal and Formal, an upscale gown boutique. I will also begin offering sewing classes. TCL: What would be your advice to someone who is trying to start a business similar to yours? AB: Don't wait until you are ready.....just dive in, go hard, and pray a lot! I would also say don't take advice from people who have NO business ....just criticism. TCL: How can customers place an order with Luxury Vogue Couture? AB: Customers can find me on Facebook, Instagram, and my website luxuryvoguecouture.storevny.com. You can email us at [email protected]. We are by appointment only. You must book to get the look! Luxury Vogue Couture Gallery Connect with Luxury Vogue Couture on social media and the website! Before you leave, share your thoughts in our comments section. Are you a member of the fashion community who wants to be featured on Truly Charmed Life? Contact us here! Read about The Denim Slayer Read about BJ Johnson Fashion Group
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AuthorThe creator of Truly Charmed Life, Antoinette Cain, delights in all things fashion, all things fostering empowerment, and all things that inspire ambition. Antoinette started this fashion and lifestyle blog to celebrate those who are living their Charmed Lives and to empower those who haven't yet realized that life may be imperfect, but in every day there is a Charmed moment. Archives
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