Fashion Forward
A Daring Designer to Watch
Uvana Doran , a freelance Fashion Designer who is also a rising senior pursuing her bachelor ’ s degree in Fashion Merchandising and Design at the illustrious institution of North Carolina A & T has always had a passion for fashion since she was a little girl . Raised by her mother who inspired her at a very early age , as she admired her sketches , Uvana followed in her footsteps . Through the years , she has received her education in fashion at Marist College and New York ’ s Fashion Institute of Technology , as well as making it her priority to give back and nurture the talents of others . Now , at the young age of 34 and a beautiful mother of two , she continues with pursuing her dreams of working in the fashion industry and most importantly giving back to her community . Doran has created a buzz around the campus of North Carolina A & T with her Earth Day inspired toilet tissue dress , along with participating in a number of local fashion shows displaying her creative and “ retro-chic ” style . A woman of many roles but not limited to , as a designer , student , and sewing instructor is one who carries her grace , elegance , and style everywhere she goes , fearless of chasing her dreams with God by her side . Simply Elevate , got the chance to catch up with Doran to find out the inside scoop and what she has planned in the future .
Q
: What made you pursue a degree in Fashion Merchandising and Design ?
A
: I chose the degree because there is a business aspect and I also get the chance to explore the design aspect , to continue to improve my skill set , so that I can be marketable and be able to compete amongst others because the fashion industry is so competitive . I have the ability to back up my talent with hands-on experience .
Q
: Explain the style of the photo-shoot that took place ?
A
: In the photo shoot today , two very talented models displayed my latest designs of “ retrochic ”. In my own words , retro- chic is a classy woman , one who can take classic style and bring it up to date to her current style . I believe that it embodies today ’ s stylish and contemporary woman . The target market would be a “ jetsetter ”, a woman who is bold , confident , and independent .
Q
: Would you consider yourself a “ jetsetter ”?
Story by : Desiree Thomas Models : Christina White
Latasha Walker Hair / Make-up : Danielle Walker
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