If you are bold, strong and unafraid of self-expression, you are likely to covet a Dominique Ansari design.
When Ansari sold her first frock, it was not only the beginning of her career but solid proof she was destined to become a fashion designer.“Fashion to me is about creativity, passion, freedom but also the change that happens with time. Whenever someone looks to the past they say, look at what you were wearing,” said Ansari.
While most of her peers were chasing career paths in medicine, accounting , and law; she had fashion on the brain. From sketching designs at 13 to designing her pupils’ prom dresses and teacher’s wedding gown, she fought against the country girl stigma. “In [Jackson] Mississippi, where I’m from, we are much more conservative, there isn’t a lot of variety in the stores and boutiques,” said Ansari. “But I do want to go back and open a boutique there.”Ansari’s personal style revolts against her conservative roots. Perhaps it is her lust after skyscraper stilettos, love for the Androgynous feminine look, fancy for Cavalli exotic prints, or peekaboo details on Versace gowns.
The designer leapt into this lucrative industry majoring in Fashion Merchandising but eventually learned she would have to venture out to the city. She discontinued her studies at the University of Southern Mississippi, packed her bags and moved to Los Angeles. There she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Fashion Design from the Art Institute of California-Hollywood. A new stint was embarked when she lived abroad in Milan for three months. She left her husband who she had been with since 19 for the duration. “I got to meet so many people,” said Ansari. “It was an unforgettable experience.” There she went to fashion week, traveled to Greece and Spain, visited a denim and shoe factory to witness the production of one of her favorite fashion staples.“I own over 100 pairs and some of them I’ve only worn once,” she said giggling. Then blurted, “ But I wouldn’t want to be a shoe designer.” Instead, someday she would like to have shoes designed for her collection.
The designer interned for many companies including XOXO, Ximena Valero LLC, and even done some freelance work for Golden Grove Trading Co. Ansari also landed a position as an assistant designer for juniors and kids at Tempted Apparel.Now residing in the Bay Area which is about 2,900 miles away from America’s fashion capital (New York City), she is making a name for herself by independently sketching, draping, cutting and sewing each piece for Dominique Ansari, Inc. With about two years of experience, the 24-year-old is strenuously developing a label during a time when the fashion industry is facing financial storms.
“People will always have a need or want for the latest trend and as a designer you just have to find your niche that will help you to excel in trying times,” said Ansari. She markets her brand to Los Angeles and the Bay Area.
According to Facebook, Ansari describes her ideal customer as a young woman who embraces femininity
“She is sexy, bold, flirtatious and a goddess among the world of the normal.”The designer incorporates lace and embroidered mesh fabrics for intricate details and subtle trims. Her designs range from girlie jumpers to body-conscious, risque frocks, and elegant couture gowns in a variety of hues.Consider this spring her breakout season, as the designer has conjured up a 41-piece collection embodying a mixture of purity and bad ass rocker. Inspired by colors of natural stones, “Sweet Deceptions” is executed in shades of brown, purple and turquoise.
“I like to choose colors that speak to me and can look good with any skin tone,” she said. “I’m not afraid to take a risk on vibrant color combinations nor risqué styles that some designers may feel should be more conservative.”Think fun, playful yet seductive with jewel tones. Standouts include asymmetrical cuts, full skirts, romantic floral prints and sumptuous jersey knits with comfort, stretch and fluidity. Sweet Deceptions breaks away from her original aesthetic which is dark, goth-inspired.
In a past photo, she is posed in her own creation: a black costume (corset with lace and a faux leather fish tail) while standing at her 5’9 stature grabbing fruit from a tree in what resembled the dark garden of eden. “Costumes are my first love,” said Ansari who designed her favorite garment as a project while studying. Recently, she discontinued professional modeling to focus on designing.Aside from unveiling a plus-size line this spring; a swimwear collection, holiday collection and sustainable fall line is in the works. She also plans to sell her garments in international boutiques.
“Never be afraid of who you are or what your dreams are, live it, love it, and do it,” said Ansari. It is safe to say that Ansari is breaking all boundaries to go after her dreams.
For more information on Dominique Ansari designs visit, http://dominiqueansari.webs.com.
