Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Flagg.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey into the fashion industry began as an artist with a passion for illustration. It wasn’t until I stumbled upon “Project Runway” that I realized I could transform my art into wearable fashion. This revelation ignited a new passion in me: Fashion Design.
After graduating college, I moved to Atlanta to pursue my dreams in the fashion world. I gained valuable experience working for several brands before launching my own brand. In 2020, I achieved a significant milestone when my first collection was launched through the SHEIN X program.
Today, I work as a Product Developer and Freelance Designer while continuing to feature my designs on SHEIN.com. My journey from artist to fashion designer has been an incredible adventure, and I am excited to see where it takes me next.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. Like many entrepreneurs, I faced numerous challenges along the way. One of the biggest struggles was defining my brand identity. Finding a unique voice and style that resonated with my target audience took time and a lot of trial and error.
Imposter syndrome was another significant hurdle. Despite my achievements and progress, there were times when I doubted my abilities and felt like I didn’t belong in the industry. Overcoming these feelings required a lot of self-reflection and support from mentors and peers.
Funding the business was tough as well. Securing the necessary capital to get my brand off the ground and sustain it was a constant challenge. I had to be resourceful and strategic, often juggling multiple roles to make ends meet.
Networking and marketing myself were also areas where I struggled. As an artist, putting myself out there and promoting my work didn’t come naturally. I had to learn how to effectively connect with others in the industry and build a strong professional network.
Despite these obstacles, each struggle taught me valuable lessons and helped shape the designer I am today. The journey has been anything but smooth, but it has been incredibly rewarding.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a Full-time Product Developer for an apparel company, where I create collections and new designs for each upcoming season. Additionally, I work as a part-time Fashion Instructor, teaching students how to illustrate their own designs and create CAD designs.
I specialize in upcycle streetwear fashion, where I thrift pieces and transform them into modern, stylish streetwear items. My upcycled pieces and fashion illustrations are what I am most known for.
One of my proudest achievements is the many collections I have produced each season from 2020 to now. These collections reflect my dedication to sustainability and innovation in fashion.
What sets me apart from others is my mission and creativity. I am passionate about sustainability and making old things new again, which is a central theme in all my work. This commitment to upcycling not only helps reduce waste but also brings a unique, fresh perspective to streetwear fashion.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory is getting my first Fashion Illustration kit from Project Runway. I created so many unique and creative designs, it brought me so much happiness and peace when creating those designs.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://obviouslyvintage.myshopify.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obviouslyvintage/
Image Credits
@SteeleDiff @Cityslicka @SHEINX_offical
