Meet Kara Chin of Anineteen in Buckhead

Thanks for sharing your story with us Kara. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I was born into a family of Asian and Jamaican descent in the great city of New York. In pursuit of my educational endeavors, I relocated to Atlanta, Georgia where I attended Spelman College. I studied political science graduating with a BA in 2009. After the birth of my son Ayden Kile Johnson, I then attended Georgia State University in pursuit of a Masters degree in Public Policy. Soon enough I realized that although I had a strong acumen for politics, my innate passion resided in the fashion industry.

With little experience in the fashion industry and no formal education on the subject, I strategically took advantage of the growing digital world, creating a personal style blog and social media personality. I titled this alter ego after a play on my last name “Chin” which went on to be known as “Chinchillyonstyle”. With the growing popularity of social media, “Chinchillyonstyle” rapidly grew into a go-to fashion resource for the style-curious. Garnering noteworthy attention, it was this digital presence that landed me my first styling gig with Atlantic records.

I eventually went on to style the likes of Sevyn Streeter, Lil Boosie, DeJ Loaf, Keyshia Cole, and Victoria Henley of America’s next top model to name a few. My work has been seen in publication such as XXL magazine and Runway Magazine as well as on various pop culture networks such as BET, MTV, and VH1. The artist that I have styled have walked red carpets such as the BET Awards in Los Angeles and national tours such as Nicki Minaj‘s Pink Print Tour.

After three years of styling some of the worlds most recognized artist, I decided to pivot and take a break from the fashion industry. In 2016 I took on a role with Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Film & Entertainment where I functioned as the head of New Business Development. By way of this office, I supported and established relationships between the city of Atlanta and some of the top brands both local and incoming. As part of my office, I was able to service my love for fashion by cultivating, curating, and supporting Atlanta’s growing fashion industry as well as broadening my branding skill set within the entertainment industry.

My experience, network, and following have dubbed me a social media tastemaker by default. Monetizing this influence, I have partnered with a plethora of brands such as MCM Worldwide, DVF, Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, NARS, and Atlanta’s Hartsfield Jackson Airport. These brands have commissioned me to function as a Brand Ambassador and Influencer, hosting launch and charity events, launching social media campaigns, and speaking on various panels. I have been featured in various publications such as “Kiss” Magazine, Atlanta Airport’s “Destination Skypointe” Magazine, and on fashion-focused sites such as Fashion Bomb Daily.

After years of dressing talent, in February of 2018, I made the decision to launch my own women’s RTW line entitled Anineteen. The line embodies the dichotomy of a woman to be both powerful yet feminine. With women being oversexualized at an alarming rate, I wanted to show women that they do not have to be naked to be revered. Anineteen, also known as A19, has been seen on the likes of Robin Givens. The brand showcased at the 2018 RAGTRADE X AIR BNB emerging designers event. Recently celebrating it’s first full year in business, the brand continues to grow into a household name.

Over the years, I have garnered experience and expertise in several facets of the industry as a Blogger, Influencer, Wardrobe Stylist, Marketing and Branding expert, and a Designer. I do not believe that a creative can be boxed into one specific area of expertise for long before crossing over. I believe that creativity is all-encompassing. I continue to operate as a Creative Director and Business professional, but my most important role-to-date is that of being a mother.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My career path has had its ups and downs. One of my greatest challenges has been balance. There is always an inescapable instability that comes with being an entrepreneur. No paycheck is guaranteed so you have to work or you won’t eat. That task became, even more, trying when I had my son. I pride myself on being a present and dedicated mother and so raising my son to my standards while also birthing a business has forced me to manage my time and finances with precision. As a single mother, working as a wardrobe stylist which often requires constant travel and 16+ hour days, I quickly learned the importance of having a village. Not only to help with my son but to help me. The ones that you can count on to help guide you spiritually, mentally and emotionally. That is been my savior over the years.

I also struggled with networking with other stylist. I feel that the community is reluctant to share insight and relationships. I’m not sure why. I don’t think one stylist’s aesthetic will ever be the same as another. If you put two stylist in the same showroom, they will not pull the same items because they do not have the same vision. I had to work twice as hard to build relationships with designers, showrooms, talent, etc. I had to figure out my own best practices, policies, and pricing structure. I believe that made me stronger and more resourceful.

Please tell us about Anineteen.
After years of dressing talent, in February of 2018, I made the decision to launch my own women’s RTW line entitled Anineteen. The line embodies the dichotomy of a woman to be both powerful yet feminine. With women being oversexualized at an alarming rate, I wanted to show women that they do not have to be naked to be revered. Anineteen, also known as A19, has been seen on the likes of Robin Givens. The brand showcased at the 2018 RAGTRADE X AIR BNB emerging designers event. Recently celebrating it’s first full year in business, the brand continues to grow into a household name.

Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite childhood memory is playing in my mom’s closet. She the most eclectic garments ever. Mom was an active part of New York’s dancehall scene. Jamaican dancehall is known for extravagance and her wardrobe was nothing short of this. All I can remember are foxtails, tulle skirts, sequins jackets, and leather pants. I loved staying up late to watch my mom get dressed for the night club. I idolized her and her friends for their fashion sense. I get my knack for arts and crafts from my mother. She can transfer a simple denim jacket into a patchworked piece of art. Growing up we made everything from our own Christmas ornaments to Christmas dresses. When I was in high school, some friends and I launched our own clothing line called “Revamped.” Though it was short-lived, the concept took ordinary vintage finds and reimagined them into current one-of-a-kind pieces. I guess that was my introduction into designing.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.anineteen.com
• Email: info@anineteen.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a19brand/?hl=en