Her Story
About Talaya
Talaya Jessie is a fashion designer who has been working in the field since 2012. She maintains a 9-to-5 job while building her design business on the side, creating and selling Cocoon maxi dresses made from cotton and linen for women of varying sizes and heights. In addition to her own designs, she offers pattern making and tech pack services to help other designers with manufacturing processes. Jessie graduated from college in LA, where she completed an internship in wholesale marketing for accessories and handbags and gained experience in bridal production. She had the opportunity to show her work at New York Fashion Week in 2023. She attributes her success to learning to ask for help and credits advice from her mentor to avoid going broke while building a business and to get paid for fashion shows rather than paying to participate. Jessie values balance and boundaries in both her work and personal life, and she donates to different churches.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Talaya
01What do you attribute your success to?
Asking for help has been key to my success. There were moments where I was pushed into the discomfort of asking for help, and those were the times I succeeded. Now I ask for help upfront when I see a problem instead of trying to solve it myself.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My mentor told me don't go broke trying to build your business. She also told me don't pay to do another fashion show. If I'm going to do a fashion show, I need to get paid for it.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Know your why and be 100% confident on that why. Be okay if the desire or the way to break into the field changes and dream a new dream. Anchor yourself in faith and believe in something bigger than yourself.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge has been tariffs affecting smaller brands by increasing costs of supplies and shipping. This is also an opportunity as it can help brands pivot, remain boutique-sized, and play the long game rather than growing too big too quickly.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Balance and boundaries are core values. I am implementing balance so I don't ignore my personal life and family while working hard. I am learning to set boundaries even with family and community who want the best for me but may give unwarranted advice.
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