Each week we will be highlighting one of the fabulous emerging designers from Phoenix Fashion Week 2017. This week, meet swimwear designer Shaquoya Jackson-Ishman, the CEO and Designer of ShaLaJá Swimwear. Shaquoya enhances beach beauties by creating designer swimwear for the confident woman.
Hometown: Columbus, GA
First fashion job: My first fashion job besides styling for fashion shows starting in 2012, I styled for models for a fashion magazine that was printed in 2014.
When did you know you had a passion for fashion: As a young girl Ive always loved fashion, but it was definitely a deeper connection and new found love for designing in particular in 2012.
Person who has impacted your life the most: My brother because he had a vision and was focused at a young age and worked hard nonstop until he accomplished his dreams despite any obstacles that he faced.
Your biggest fashion accomplishment in your eyes: To be featured in GQ Magazine Mexico is my biggest accomplishment
The biggest obstacle you have overcome: The biggest obstacle I have overcome is losing an entire production and having to reproduce it.
A Designer who inspires you: Zac Posen because he was the first designer whose designs I fell in love with.
Favorite quote: “Good, Better, Best.. Never let it rest until your good is better and your better is best.”
Advice to someone pursuing a career in fashion as a designer: My advice would be to research as much as possible, have a business plan, shadow a mentor if you can and if you can’t, then take as much as you can from business people that you encounter. Take the good and the bad and learn what to do and what not to do. Consistency is the key so stay working, learning and growing!
Favorite piece you have ever designed: Hollywood Glam Cover – this luxurious cover up is fully beaded on black mesh with a silk collar.
For more information about ShaLaJá Swimwear and to shop online, visit shalajaswimwear.com.
If you would like to attend Phoenix Fashion Week 2017, you can purchase tickets here: bit.ly/PHXFW2017FABAZ. Use promo code FABAZ for a $20 gift card good towards any seat (not applicable towards standing room tickets).