Reginald L. Wilson is expeditiously becoming a fashion icon. From mod dress to millinery, the body of work of Reginald L. Wilson is taking-off and has landed on the runways of Deck the Runway and Baltimore Fashion Week.
Who is Reginald L. Wilson? Where did he come from? And how did an old Singer sewing machine shape the inception of LaVincient?
Recently, Caribdomain spoke with Reginald L. Wilson and we think you will like what Reginald has to say.
Reginald, you are having a fabulous start to your career. Where did your journey begin?
I was raised in Mississippi. During this time, little black boys in fashion was a taboo; therefore, I dreamed about my designs sashaying down the runway.
In 2011, I relocated to Maryland to start a family. Several years later, I inherited an old Singer sewing machine and quickly mastered sewing from patterns. It was not long after that I started sewing for my family, and as a result, I traded in my old Singer machine for a contemporary sewing machine.
Fashion is a fast-changing industry. As a designer, do you believe you can make an impact?
I always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. As a self–taught designer, most of my skills were acquired from researching designers both past and present, researching techniques, and various couture aspects. Pursuing these resources was completely self-driven, which gives me an edge, because the desire and drive was totally internal.
Inspirations from my designs come from my love of southern culture. When designing, I use traditional methods. I like to use these methods because I feel like I am one with the entire design process. I only use technology when I chose to embellish a garment with embroidery.
I believe fashion is cyclical and now you must know your fashion history, techniques, and fabrics to execute your vision. When it’s showtime, I feel relieved because the work is done and all the control is turned over to the models and production team.
Garments that showcase my designs are custom to the model. After the show, they obtain the garment they showcase. This gratuity is unheard of in the fashion industry.
I tend to pivot away from trends because they hinder my creativity. And I do not take my cues from other designers. I am a trendsetter.
Designers and models have been known to develop mental health disorders. How do you maintain work-life balance?
Since designing my health has improved dramatically, blood pressure has decreased, and my diabetes has improved. Designing is a great way for me to relieve pressure and stress.
What plans do you have for your brand and how does Covid-19 affect this process?
Covid-19, has forced designers to change how they present their collection. In-person fashion shows are becoming a thing of the past. Virtual fashion shows are on the rise and they provide everyone the opportunity to view multiple designer collections. Virtual fashion shows will increase designers opportunities, audience, and consumers.
How do you find inspiration for designing?
I lost my mother approximately 20 years ago. I design most of my garments with my mother in mind.
The driving force behind the design of the LaVincient logo is Wesley Mc Cammon, my husband. Purple is Wesley’s favorite color. I chose purple to show how much I appreciate Wesley’s support.
My granddaughter was born on September 24, 2021, and she is affectionately called Chunka Munka. When I view her photograph, all the pressure and pains of everyday life disappear. My granddaughter inspired me to create a new kid’s line, called Chunka Munka; which is currently under negotiation.
What’s next on the horizon for you?
I am always evolving and pushing my skill set. On March 7, 2022, I created La Vincient Swimwear.
Is there anything else you would like to share with our audience?
On December 31, 2019, I created Next Door, a community base message board that encourages others to drape and create along with me. During this time, I had 12 viewers. To-date, there are over 1000 viewers. My dream became a reality and I am grateful for the opportunity to provide meaningful opportunities for my viewers to connect and create.
Discover and Network with Reginald L. Wilson at www.lavincient.com | Instagram | Next Fashion Show Tickets
By Four Square Mile | 4sqmile.com