Meet the Designers 2025

 Efua Amissah-Aggrey is a multi-disciplinary artist, public speaker, and founder of Baddest, a clothing brand that fuses eclectic chic with African essence through fabrics sourced from her home country, Ghana. Creativity lies at the heart of Efua’s life and mission, guiding her work as both an artist and advocate. In her TEDx talk, Creativity is Our Birthright, she explored its power to help us lead more passionate and fulfilling lives. She continues to champion that vision as a board member at 934 Gallery and a GCAC Navigator, supporting artists in accessing funding and opportunities.

Toi Arnold is a self-taught fashion designer and founder of SO TOI, a couture brand specializing in custom gowns and special occasion wear. Designing from her downtown Cleveland atelier, Toi creates pieces that embody individuality, confidence, and timeless elegance.

Alexandria Jay was established in 2017. Jasmine participated in Fashion Week Columbus in 2019, and New York Fashion Week in 2020. She has showcased her designs in numerous fashion shows around Columbus, including Bee Foster’s fashion shows for three years and the Power of Women events in 2017 and 2018.

Jasmine also helped design alongside Jimelle Levon costumes for the rap group City Girls for their BET Awards performance, world premiere video, and world tour in 2022. She has also won the lookbook cover and designer of the year 2024 for Fashion Week Columbus.

A Columbus, Ohio native; Burton is a self-taught artist and designer who has turned her passion for drawing and painting into a sustainable enterprise. Burton’s creative instinct propels her to experiment with color and texture, producing a signature style that has evolved into a vibrant brand of wearable art that is far from ordinary.

A classic Kincs by Nicki creation is uniquely outstanding because Burton masterfully combines colors, textiles and cultural relevancy together to create pieces that resonate with its future owner. “Art should be appreciated; not discarded in a basement or lost in a jewelry box.” Keeping with her belief that each piece should be a one-of-a-kind work of art, she intentionally ensures that no one, hand-painted piece is the same. “Everything I create is intentional and meaningful to the entire collection.”

Justin Campbell is a fashion designer and painter living and working in Columbus Ohio’s Franklinton Arts District. Proud to be an Akron, Ohio native, he received his education in Interior Design, Arts Administration and Textiles from The University of Akron. Since then, he has enjoyed a plethora of creative endeavors, such as illustrating architectural renderings and books, designing clothing, painting murals, gallery work and planning special events.

Currently, he is dedicated to his figurative paintings and fashion designs, and his focus is to provide the world with fun and innovative imagery and wearable art. Motivated by an inherent and true love of creativity, and his insatiable appetite for all things beautiful, he is continuously working in his studio and plans to open a public gallery space to house and display his growing collections.

Tony Hair Weave KiLLaH award winning Licensed Cosmetologist from Cincinnati Ohio, i’ve been a hairstylist 20 plus years. I specialize in ALL STYLES/ STYLING ALL and I’m known for creating captivating hair sculptures out of hair most wearable and beyond the head. My scissors are my signature, and my style is unmatched and one of a kind.

Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Amber made her fashion debut in 2010 with her first clothing line, Anic’ Productions. For eight years, she designed for women, men, and children, with a strong focus on plus-size fashion that celebrated confidence and individuality.

After a four-year hiatus beginning in 2018, Amber returned to the runway in 2022 under her own brand — Amber Nicole — bringing a renewed vision of bold, expressive, and inclusive style.

A true creative at heart, Dom Featherstone is a multitalented artist with an eye for style and self-expression. From fashion and makeup to nails and beyond, his artistry reflects individuality, confidence, and bold creativity. Beyond the beauty world, Dom is deeply passionate about giving back — dedicating time and energy to educating and empowering individuals living with HIV and AIDS, as well as providing resources to help others stay informed and healthy. Blending artistry with advocacy, Dom Featherstone uses his talents to uplift, inspire, and make a meaningful impact in his community.

Corey Hazel-Corey is a multidisciplinary fashion designer whose journey bridges Architecture and the fine arts, resulting in a designs rooted in structure, storytelling, and soul. Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Corey studied Architecture and Engineering before discovering a passion for garment construction while studying at the University of Cincinnati. There, he immersed himself in fashion culture, teaching himself to sew and experimenting with reconstruction and custom tailoring.

After college, he founded HAZE Manufacturing, a brand defined by one-of-a-kind pieces, reworked textiles, and garments that carry memory, resilience, and identity. Each collection reflects his belief that clothing is not just worn, but meant to make a statement. Guided by craftsmanship and authenticity, Haze designs with precision and emotion, often drawing from blue-collar aesthetics and vintage workwear. Through HAZE Manufacturing, he challenges traditional fashion norms, proving that true style is built—not just bought.

Kevin Holley Renaissance Couture’s story started on the very idea to fill what we think is a missing gap in the fashion market. Kevin Holley and Aita Carmichael both thought there needed to be a bridge between customers and designers that allowed them to have a loud voice speaking to what they wanted and desired. Thus began a journey into the better menswear and womenswear arena. We love what we do; it is our passion. We create with passion, we do not follow trends, we pave the way for them. We are innovative, bold and fearless, taking chances and bending the rules. We are evolving every single day; our story is still a canvas that is being painted, and we would love for you to be a part of it. Fabric and fit are so important! It is foundational! We use multiple Textiles, and our unique passionate eye for Fashion, Design, and Style creates RENAISSANCE COUTURE’s head turning clothing for men and women. We work to satisfy and meet every customer’s Fashion needs regardless of size and cultural interests. Through our artistic design we bring out the best look for each of our customers, and we design custom luxury apparel just for you to fulfill all your fashion needs.

Morgan Howard is the visionary designer behind Rollison Couture, a fashion brand known for bold elegance and modern sophistication. Since launching her business in 2020, Morgan has made her mark on the fashion scene, showcasing her collections in runway shows across Columbus, Cleveland, Akron, and Miami. She also participated on the Style Team for Columbus Fashion Week in 2021.

In 2025, Morgan took a major step forward by opening Couture Glams, a brick-and-mortar boutique co-founded with her business partner. Located in the heart of Cleveland, the boutique blends high fashion with beauty services, catering exclusively to women’s style needs. Through her work, Morgan continues to inspire confidence and creativity in every woman she dresses.

Meet K Renee! Kimberly took her skills learned in 6th grade Home Economics and started to go to thrift stores in college to upcycle clothes and make them into original garments so she wouldn’t be dressed like anyone else. Kimberly moved to Atlanta, Georgia to further her career as the Midwest didn’t have as much to offer her creativity. Since moving to Atlanta, she has styled and/or designed for celebrities such as Shamea from Atlanta Housewives to rapper Akbar V! K Renee has also expanded her brand to include interior design and resin art.

Phantashia Johnson is a designer and technical expert with over 15 years of experience bringing bold, wearable visions to life. Through her brand, The Aya Emporium, she crafts statement pieces that fuse creativity, purpose, and impeccable construction. A passionate advocate for sewing education, she is dedicated to sharing her skills and inspiring the next generation of makers to design with confidence and intention.

Elyse Jones is a self-taught, published fashion designer based in Columbus, Ohio. She is the visionary behind Cutting EDJ Designs, a bold and expressive brand that blends creativity, sophistication, and contemporary style. Founded with the mission to empower individuals through fashion, Cutting EDJ Designs offers personalized services that not only enhance natural beauty but also ignite confidence and inner strength. With a strong focus on authenticity and self-expression, Elyse’s designs challenge traditional beauty standards and promote the belief that everyone has a fierce, fashionable side waiting to be revealed. At its core, Cutting EDJ Designs is about more than just clothing—it’s about helping clients see their true potential, beyond the mirror. The brand continues to bridge the gap between self-consciousness and self-assured style, redefining what it means to dress with purpose and confidence.

Jaquan Leonard is a Washington, D.C.–based program manager and creative director with a passion for style and innovation. Through his brand Show boy, Jaquan offers bespoke designs and personalized style consulting that reflect confidence and individuality. Specializing in both outerwear and underwear, he brings a refined yet daring approach to modern fashion. As he continues to expand his expertise as a designer, Jaquan is preparing to launch his own fashion e-commerce venture, merging creativity with commerce in fresh, impactful ways.

Jimelle Levon is a Columbus-based designer and couturier whose journey began in 2014 as a self-taught seamster and fashion visionary. Over the years, he has cultivated a distinctive design aesthetic that merges artistry, craftsmanship, and individuality. His work has attracted the attention of high-profile clients including Megan Thee Stallion, Keyshia Cole, and Summer Walker, among others.

In addition to his custom design work, Jimelle is a highly skilled tailor within the local prom, pageant, and bridal industries. His expertise in alterations has supported several prominent Columbus-based retailers, solidifying his reputation for exceptional fit and precision.

Tiraj Lucas is a self-taught fashion designer, poet, and lawyer who founded FROM TIRZ, a streetwear movement rooted in resilience, transformation, and the decriminalization of streetwear in minority communities. Since its launch, FROM TIRZ has sold out multiple collections, walked the runway at Fashion Week Columbus, and built a reputation for blending raw storytelling with bold design.

Beyond fashion, Tiraj is the author of two poetry collections (SOIL and Piece By Piece), has been featured on television, and has performed on TEDTalk stages. With a Juris Doctorate from The Ohio State University and a Bachelor of Science from Eastern Michigan University—where they studied apparel and merchandising abroad in London and Paris—Tiraj bridges creativity, advocacy, and culture in every endeavor.

Maxx Marsico Maison is a luxury house by Brandon “Maxx” Marsico, celebrated for sculptural folds, spiral draping, and sensual tailoring. Founded in 2018, MMM fuses couture technique with modern storytelling across bespoke gowns and elevated ready-to-wear. For Shades of Red, Maxx presents a ribbon-inspired, mermaid silhouette that honors World AIDS Day with beauty, remembrance, and resolve.

Adrian Daron is an American men’s wear designer. Specializing in athletic wear, street wear, and bags. Growing up in the Midwest, he has a wide range of design influences. Including black culture, pop culture, and the people and places around him, that have molded him into who he is today. He resides in Columbus Ohio, making special clothing for everyday people.

EasyCo makes underground apparel for the bold and independent. We fuse DIY design with couture attitude and sustainable craftsmanship to create timeless looks that stand apart.

Princess Price has come a long way from making rag dolls with her grandmother whom she was named after, thus being given the name Princess by her father to distinguish the difference. Princess fashion sense was developed by her mother Shirley, who always kept her dressed in the latest designs and even sometimes developing new trends that others would catch on to.

Once her children became of age that she was comfortable to send them to daycare, she took on varies jobs in Corporate and mainstream America and sewing became a hobby for her to make things for her children and friends and family. As word of mouth began to spread more and more people began to ask her to make things, or help them with their projects. So with great zeal and enthusiasm, Princess has decided to start her first entrepreneurial career, by starting an on-line fashion business, which will also include Event and Wedding planning.

At the intersection of street art and high-end fashion, my brand brings a unique fusion of urban aesthetics and luxury design. I specialize in custom clothing that blends the raw energy of streetwear with the high fashion. From street art pieces to, custom designed gowns. With each piece my goal is to create the ultimate look and transform each client.

Distinctive Designs is more than a clothing brand; it’s a statement of individuality and empowerment. We believe in creating FAR FROM BASIC designs for those who live outside the box, who rise above every obstacle, and who are unafraid to embrace their unique style. Our pieces are crafted for those who defy the ordinary and champion the extraordinary, turning every setback into a comeback. With Distinctive Designs, you’re not just wearing clothes you’re wearing confidence. We embrace angel number 111, which symbolizes new beginnings and positive energy, guiding you to manifest your dreams through bold fashion fearlessly.

The KenneshaNycole brand is a luxury brand that creates timeless pieces for those who understand and value the finer aspects of fashion. Kennesha’s designs stand apart from societal norms and maintain a steadfast design philosophy, separating those who truly grasp the essence of luxury from those who do not.

My name is Karla Young-Person. By day I am an Intervention Specialist for Columbus City Schools, married with six children. By night or any other spare time of the day, I am a plus size model, Designer/Stylist with my own brand called “THICK-iish”. In 2018 my husband Tracey and I started a T-shirt business called “PERSONal Touch and Such” where we customize shirts and other items. I asked him to create a T-shirt logo that exemplified my style and personality… THICK-iish was born! THICK-iish has since evolved into an entire fashion and styling line. The THICK-iish women is luxuriant, exuberant and unrestrained in enthusiasm and style. She is just plain more. THICK-iish is not just a size, but a whole attitude! In The Underground BOSS Magazine, May 2019 edition, THICK-iish was titled “a fresh look on curvy fashion wear”