Today we’d like to introduce you to Cierra Ramseur
Hi Cierra, 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?
After graduating from the Art Institute of New York City and completing my internship with Derek Lam 10 Crosby in 2016, my journey in the fashion industry began. I started as a Production Assistant at Rashti and Rashti, where my daily tasks involved communicating with overseas vendors, conducting quality inspections, approving fabric colors (TPX), and ensuring accurate sample measurements. Moving forward, my role evolved into that of a Junior Designer, where I conceptualized collection inspirations, created digital CAD illustrations, and developed Techpacks.
Throughout my career in the garment district, I also ventured into assisting sample shop owners in acquiring clients through freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. This eventually led to the creation of Creme, where I positioned myself as the intermediary between clients and sample shops. This role allowed me to indulge my creativity by experimenting with sample creations and gaining direct involvement in design development techniques.
I’ve indulged in many aspects of garment construction, including denim washes, pleating techniques, sewing methods, and materials across different fashion realms such as swimwear and textiles. This hands-on experience has equipped me with the skills to independently sample and develop garments of any kind.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Absolutely not! This journey into entrepreneurship has been everything but smooth. It feels like at every turn, all I encounter are rejections, delays, setbacks, and financial hardships. It’s a constant stream of “No”, “Not yet”, “Start small”, “Keep working”, “We regret to inform you”, coupled with missed payments, late fees, and never having enough of what is needed to execute.
The bulk of my struggles with my venture stem from the basic challenges of securing funding and establishing business credit. Without a financial background, navigating the complexities of money management, investment strategies, and making significant lifestyle sacrifices to funnel resources into my business.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m Cierra Andrea, a fashion designer, seamstress, and garment apparel sample developer. Renowned locally for my creative flair and extensive knowledge in apparel design, I’m often dubbed a walking encyclopedia in the field. My forte lies in crafting and constructing sample garments, showcasing expertise in various fabrications, and bringing custom designs to life. While I may not boast as much pride in myself as I’d wish, if there’s one thing I can say I’m proud of, it’s my unwavering dedication to pursuing my dream despite the challenges of reality.
Any big plans?
I have absolutely no clue what my plan is. Every plan I have had during this journey has been disrupted and has not gone as expected. I will hope to continue my business endeavors home in NYC. I would also hope to regain clientele and start applying all the lessons I been able to learn the past two years in business while residing in Atlanta Georgia. I am interested in obtaining a mentor of the right caliber and hopefully restructure, reestablish, and expand Creme as well as funding. As far as big Changes I did re locate and move back to New York, having exhausted all avenues in Atlanta and I have decided to use all aspects of my creativity in Creme. Designing and Manufacturing.
Pricing:
- Tech Packs $350.00
- Proto Sample $250.00-$500.00
- Fabric sourcing $500.00
- Production Development $ 1,300.00
- Design Development 5 styles $2000.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://delacremedesigns.webflow.io/
- Instagram: @Cierraandrea
- Twitter: @cierraandrea_
- Other: @Cierraandrea tiktok
Image Credits: Cierra A Ramseur
