Interviewed by Holmag.INC

We have been following your work for some time now, man! Amazing! Who influences you? 

My mom has been a huge influence. I remember as a young ‘jitterbug’, my mom and I would go every other weekend to yard sales. We visited vintage or antique boutiques and thrift shops to hunt for treasures. From furniture to chinaware to shoes and accessories we would shop for those quality pieces. 

Where else do you pull inspiration from? 

Everywhere! Like the ‘Good Book’ says: nothing is new under the sun. I’ve learned that this world is my canvas. As we all journey through, it is my experience that I can make colors come to light. I pull from the bad and the good of religion, politics, sex, nature, men, and women. 

You are still in college. What are your expectations after graduation? 

I don’t have any specific expectations after graduation. I’m simply open to what the world has to offer, while remaining mindful and proceeding with caution. 

Do you see yourself working independently in the fashion industry or for a design company or brand? 

I see myself working independently and being of service to the under-served and those who appreciate my expertise. I find peace when I’m working alone in my workspace. When I couldn’t find my calm, I decided to create it with what little I had at hand. 

Have you had any instances where you felt unsupported in the industry or in your community? 

Definitely, only because I didn’t know my value or my worth yet. Given my experience, I have learned that family and friends are not the first on board with support. You must be the one to support yourself initially. We need to believe in ourselves first and not have all these expectations so we aren’t left with disappointment. Once you become self aware, you will rise into place and so will everyone else. 

Have you had any negative experiences in the industry? If yes, what did you learn from it? 

Yes, I have had negative experiences in the industry. And I’ve learned that’s just what they have been and will be: just experiences. I will always be a student. 

What would you advise any other emerging designers to do based on that experience? 

To be open to the process. It is through your journey that you will find success and fulfillment because success is found in the process. The process of discipline, consistency, hardship, and solving problems. Problems don’t always have to be negative, they can also be positive and worth solving. 

What is your greatest memory from designing? 

The greatest memory would be finally learning how to plan, draft, and construct a functional foundation for my designs. For years, I struggled until an instructor called my bluff. She told me I was a great illusionist. From afar, the garment looked nice. But, once you got up close to it, you see all the imperfections. Because of that, I decided to enroll myself full-time to perfect the craft. It was the best decision I’ve ever made. It’s never too late to finish what you started. 

We have seen your work and understanding for craftsmanship in your costume design. Who are some of the celebrities or local renowned names that you have designed for or dressed? 

Laeann Amos, Franki Amour, Joey Rolon, IvyQueenDiva, Dolly Castro, Farina Music, Ultra Fest, BG Magazine, IDOL Magazine, and more to come. 

Is there any possibility of growing into a larger agency to cater to a much broader audience? Or do you prefer to remain local? 

Yes, this purpose is larger than me. However, I don’t want to just speak on it, I would rather act. 

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? 

Financially free and doing what I love, while surrounded by those I like. In that order! 

Fun question: If you had to dress someone for the rest of your designing career, who would it be? 

Myself. I’m falling in love with myself again. It’s been awhile. I am learning to be patient with myself. Building on the comfort and heavy on the confidence. 

Do you have a physical website where we can find your cool designs? 

www.rosestashia.com 

What are your social media handles? 

Instagram: 

@rosestashia 

@rosetashajnnoel