LaTasha Hughes is a junior at Clark Atlanta University majoring in fashion. The South Side Chicago native transferred from a small-town community college to Clark Atlanta University in August 2015. In an interview, she shared her experiences as a fashion stylist at Forever 21 and why it was so important for her to move to Atlanta.
Why did you transfer?
The school was in a small town in Illinois and as a fashion major, I wanted to be in a bigger city to network.
Why did you choose Clark Atlanta University?
I knew I wanted to go to an HBCU and major in fashion, so that is how I ended up at Clark.
What social media platforms do you use?
I use Instagram and Facebook. I have not started advertising my designs on social media yet because I feel that my business is not where I want it to be. I still need tags and washing and drying instructions.
What stage are you in now?
I am currently a stylist, but I am now working on a jacket for a guy from Morehouse. He came into class asking for someone to design a jacket [for] him and no one spoke up. I decided to speak up, and that is what I am working on now.
Do you design your own clothes for personal wear?
Yes. I only wear my designs.
Are you going back to Illinois after graduation? Have you styled anyone in Atlanta?
I want to stay in Atlanta. After I graduate, I would like to land an internship and work under someone to gain some experience. I am now working at Forever 21 and I created my own job description as a stylist. I have clients that come in for styling and I help them coordinate outfits. I actually had a client shout me out on Instagram and that was very exciting.
What was your job before you were hired at Forever 21?
I did not have a job. I was at the mall shopping and I saw the we are hiring sign and I decided to apply. As a college student without a car, I really needed a job.
Hughes can be followed on Instagram @_tasha.mac.
written by Jacinta Render, interview by Yvette Caslin
Styling Assistants: Javon Hurlock, Nadiyah Gulley
Photographers: Amani Fairweather, Asia Comans
Makeup and Hair: BJ Arnett, Nadiyah Gulley
