Rising Stars: Meet Karron English of Smyrna

Today we’d like to introduce you to Karron English.

Hi Karron, 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 am an accomplished fashion designer and educator with a rich background spanning over 20 years in the fashion design industry, mostly in the New York City. Holding an Associate’s degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), a BFA from the American InterContinental University (AIU), and an MFA from the Academy of Art University, I bring extensive expertise to every endeavor.

My career includes eight years managing apparel licensing for Coca-Cola Enterprises globally, showcasing my ability to blend creativity with business acumen.

At the English Design Laboratory (EDL), we believe that every child has a unique sense of style waiting to be discovered. Our mission is to inspire creativity and self-expression through fashion education, allowing our young innovators to express their creative voice.

Since 2004, the English Design Laboratory, has taught over 100+ students the art of fashion designing from ages 7 and above. As a Professor of Fashion for over a decade, I am passionate about inspiring the next generation of designers and influencers by combining technical skills with a love for innovation and self-expression. EDL works with students by shaping young minds and redefine creativity in fashion education.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
When the English Design Lab was started back in 2004, it was a little store front in Kennesaw. It started with 10 student. Towards the end of the it first iteration, I had 1oo+ students.

Unfortunately, 2008 was difficult for most families, so I had to rethink my approach. I went back to school and earned a Master of Fine Arts in Fashion Design and Merchandising. I taught and still teach in higher education fashion classes. In hind sight, working with college students I was able to teach another different age demographic.

Fast forward, I reopened the English Design Lab. Currently I take my classes to after school programs, Girl Scout groups, art centers, birthday parties, and summer and school break camps.

I truly love working with our youth because they are so pure and imaginative. I like listening to them and pulling their creativity out for all to see.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a New Yorker at heart. I attended a the High School of Art and Design in Manhattan from there I went to Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. I worked in NY industry for over 15 years.

I am proud of my ability to doing research as it relates to people. I unconsciously observe everything. How they think, emerging trends, and shifts in society. As I tell my college students, this is what a seasoned designer is always observing. That was makes a great designer!

At this stage, I believe I am known for the passion I have for working with kids and I believe the parents can see that through the projects that they work on and that fact that they know the word “croquis”.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
In the past, my students have calibrated with competitions where they were give a brief form a clothing company, (Project J, Amy Tam – both tee shirt company).

One of my summer camps, held at the MJCC, we present a fashion show to the camp at the end of the week.

I currently have camps and classes at:

The MJCC in Dunwoody
Mable House Home Schoolers and school break camps
After School programs

I have a flexible schedule so I am able to create and collaborate with individual and companies.

Pricing:

• Camp 5 days $130.00 per student
• 1 day after school programs
• Girl Scouts Price depends on project
• 1 day crash course (4 hr session – $80.00)
• Online Class – starts $60.00 (1.5 hr)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://englishdesignlaboratory.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/englishdesignlab
• Facebook: englishdesignlab

Image Credits
Images taken by Karron English of my students’ work.