Today we’d like to introduce you to Bev The Creatress Beverly Williams.
Hi Bev, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
At the age of 12, I would sketch, cut, paint, and redesign my clothing by handsewing. My style was a mix between a girly tomboy, flower shirts with dope matching sneakers. I knew at age 15. I wanted to pursue fashion design professionally. After high school, I enrolled at Miami International University of Art and Design to start my fashion design career. For four years pursuing my BFA, I learned about sourcing, construction, fabrics, trend forecasting and so much more! I became a professional sandal and textile designer within a year of graduating. Fast forward, I moved back to Orlando, spent several years creating costumes for Universal Studios’ Marquee events while making custom clothing for locals under my own brand.
Alright, 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?
NOOOOO! Definitely has not been smooth. Living in Miami, but not being Latina or Spanish speaking, had me overlooked on many work opportunities and collaborations. Another struggle included working fabrication for theme parks and not being paid or valued as a skilled artist. Making custom clothing for people has put me as their casual life coach and therapist at times. No, there’s no couch for folks to sit on and tell me about their childhood. But I’ve been given the task to uplift, inspire and embrace the expression inside so that we can flex it on the outside. Although I have to give undesired news to some clientele like..”Girl, that style is not for your body. We all need that polite but straight forward truth and encouragement.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a fashion designer that creates custom couture looks for those in creative industries and interests. What am I known for? Gotta ask the people, lol. They’d probably say my knowledge and unique use of materials. I am most proud of my craftsmanship. Garments look great inside and out. They’re well made, built to last way past the photo shoot, only to be posted on social media once. This is SLOW but worthy fashion. I believe what sets me apart from other designers is my design details. At times they can be simple but intricate or very bold. Honestly, I am still trying to streamline my aesthetic and specialty. I enjoy doing many things!
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Pattern Magic book cool resource in origami fashion which I enjoy dabbling in and using techniques in my designs. Right now, I’ve been listening to the ‘Sup Sis’ podcast that speaks of real life thoughts and realities of the creative melanated millenial. Very relatable and entertaining. It keeps me grounded when things get too spacey or hard to grasp. I’m also reading The 22 Immutable Laws of Branding. Very informative and helpful. I am applying some laws now to business and life.
Contact Info:
- Email: bevthecreatress@gmail.com
- Website: www.bevthecreatress.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/bevthecreatress
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bevthecreatress
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcNSEbkTf7VY3cdScL1Q98g
Image Credits
_MojoPhotography (pink two piece outfit) imaginedbymana (green outfit)
