Mya Hammons

Excerpts from an Interview with the Designer

Recorded on: Feb 20 2023 and March 22 2023

Tell me about your collection!

My collection inculpates both the delicacy of feminine appeal and the industrial emotion of a masculine foundation with both elements of denim and lace being the forefront of fabric used. The inspiration of my collection stems from representation and versatility. As we see throughout the fashion industry there is not enough accurate representation of women of color, so I wanted to ensure I prioritize the autonomy of black bodies in each piece. With this is mind, I selectively chose my friends to model this value of mine as they display all shades, sizes, and beauty. Each piece is boldly independent yet collectively stands with one another to illuminate vulnerability in just being unapologetically a woman.

Where are you sourcing your materials from?

All my materials have been sourced from local fabric manufactures, however a handful of my denim is upcycled from thrift stores and other second hand establishments within the city of Bloomington. For example, my fourth piece featuring the lace wrap-top and denim pants include exaggerated pockets which I used from recycled denim. The aspect of sustainability is very important to me when thinking about my design process. Further, how I can actively contribute to taking better care of the planet, as the fashion industry is one of the leading polluters today. This is a reminder to all that there are extended avenues of resources at one’s accessibility to ensure clothing gets all possible love and remains in the fashion life cycle for as long as possible.

How do the themes of masculinity and femininity relate to the emphasis of representation of women of color in your collection?

Yes! So, the elements of aesthetic being both masculinity and femininity directly relate to my values of representation of women of color because majority of the time Black Women specifically are not able to lean into both. And for most women it is generally hard to express being both feminine and masculine within a society that sees it as one or the other. With this I believe clothes allow a faucet of expression for whatever emotion, persona, or appeal one feels the most comfortable in and this is what I tell those around me. You should only wear what makes you feel good inside at the end of the day, leading me to use silhouettes that I feel radiant the best energy from all my models.

How do you balance creating for yourself and for audience?

I love this question because outside of the technical agenda of construction of this collection this is what I have been thinking about the most. With this being my first collection, I sincerely wanted it to showcase who I am as a designer and that I will always put out a mission more genuine than just “making clothing.” So, I believe the balance comes from ensuring I am not just creating for something to look good but that I am prioritizing narrowing any gaps within the industry, it cannot just be for yourself when it’s all said and done. As a designer the creativity and longevity of a brand sustains when there is meaning behind it.