Today we’d like to introduce you to Sidney Walker.
Hi Sidney, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I pridefully grew up in Macon, Ga where there wasn’t much opportunity or vision for fashion. I started teaching myself how to sew and it came to me so naturally. I created my first fashion brand reconstructing basic crewnecks and sold them to people in my community as well as on Etsy. I was also working in retail part time, became an alterations assistant at David’s Bridal and finishing up my degree in History. I wanted to perfect the craft and learn the ins and outs of the fashion industry so I decided to go back to school.
At Georgia Southern University, the fashion program was intimate but mighty. Under the tutelage of Hope Simpara (Assistant Professor), I learned to trust my vision and execute it with panache. Immediately after graduation, I moved to Orlando, Fl to complete my internship with Converse. While in Orlando, I had the opportunity to work in the wardrobe department at The Orlando Repertory Theatre and I was mesmerized by the way fashion brought the story to life. From that moment I knew I wanted to combine my love for fashion with entertainment.
After my internship was over in 2016, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue my career in the fashion entertainment industry. It was a slow, uphill battle but I knew I could make it happen. I began working as a seamstress for tv & costume designed student films but I also explored other artistic avenues.
The defining moment I knew I was certainly on the right path as an artist was being a wardrobe assistant for Beyoncé’s Coachella performance and reupholstering Atrium Restaurant in Los Angeles. I left feeling empowered & confident to continue the journey.
The pandemic abruptly stopped the entertainment industry in Los Angeles and I had more time to focus on my other interest. I was enrolled in the Manicurist program at Santa Monica College a few months before the pandemic and decided to redirect my focus to nail care. I then started my business SidneyShanaeCompany selling premium accessories, handmade press on nails and vegan nail polish on Etsy. My business blossomed quickly and was featured in TeenVogue, Instyle and Goodhouskeeping magazines.
I was ecstatic about the success of my brand but I was working alone in my studio apartment. I wanted to be closer to the people I love most and Atlanta is home. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for me as well as my career. With my drive and loved ones close, I can do anything.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There has definitely been a few bumps in the road along the way but I’ve always persevered.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an interdisciplinary artist with a focus in fashion. I’ve also been blessed to be a graphic artist, interior designer and manicurist. As I previously mentioned, I’ve worked as a seamstress/costume designer for tv and film, worked as a Custom Design Specialist for Converse and reupholstered Atrium restaurant in Los Angeles, CA.
Since I’ve been in Atlanta, I began teaching fashion and sewing at a few different private schools in the greater Atlanta area. Running my business and and teaching has been a challenge to balance but I love what I do.
Contact Info:
- Email: sidneyshanaewalker@gmail.com
- Website: www.etsy.com/shop/SidneyShanaeCompany
- Instagram: SidneyShanae | SidneyShanaeCo
Image Credits:
Jordan Payne (@twoamjo)
Mish @ohsnapsmish
