What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion means self expression. It is an extension of one’s emotions and way of life. People who say they don’t care about clothes, the way they look, usually lack passion in their life.
Fashion is loving yourself and where you are going.
When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer?
I realized that I wanted to be a fashion designer when it focused me. Fashion excites me and inspires me in a way that nothing has ever done. The day I was in a slump and depressed about where things were going in my life, and I felt the desire to push through the slump was a solid clue that I was on to something. Now having a bad day does not make me want to find a new passion it fuels me to create more.

How long does it usually take you to construct a piece?
I never push creativity. I like to let my creativity come naturally, so when it hits I can create it in less than 15mins. When passion and inspiration is taking control you become the tool not the designer.
Who is one of your favorite local models to work with?
I have two. Their names are Vianna Nater and Frederik McDonald, and I signed both of them to the brand. For me
modeling is more than a pretty face or being able to look good on camera. It is an energy and element of character. They have such great positive attitudes, and they care about the brand as if they created. It makes it easy to tell them what I am looking to achieve, and there is no chip on the shoulder attitude. It is just about professionalism and GREATNESS.
Who are some of your favorite designers?
My favorite designer without any doubt is Ralph Lauren. He represents class, timeless style, and iconic fashion. He can never be duplicated. He has thought of every consumer. I have that desire to have a brand for every consumer. I love the fact that someone from the hood around the way and the executive behind his desk can wear the same article of clothing. He made the Polo a fashion staple, and he never ceases to stop recreating it. Fashion is about being able to make people see the same item differently, and to me Ralph Lauren is my HOPE. My hope of what I would want to be.
Where can readers buy your clothes/jewelry?
Now they can find us online at www.poetikdesigns.com, and they can also find us at Bebenoir during May and June. We are partnering with them to bring our first pop-up boutique.