Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler Kirkland.
Hi Tyler, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Coming from two powerhouses, my mother being a well-known fashionista model at her time back in my hometown Pittsburgh, PA, and my father who owned a fashion boutique for over 15 years I grew up in. Fashion has always been a passion of mine, I first started my artistry with photography, I was shooting editorial shoots, weddings, and runway. Then, I started modeling into fashion design. I launched my brand on my 21st birthday shortly after relocating to Atlanta, GA to build my brand. Atlanta wasn’t necessarily my first choice, but it was a great start. I was a fashion intern for Designer Tracy Nicole for two years, being a self-taught designer I was eager to learn as much as I could. Besides, learning from trial and error and reading books. I was grateful to learn a lot and meet celebrities. Throughout the years, I established clientele styled and designed for reality TV Stars. I am currently producing my next spring collection on April 24, 2022.
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?
They always said, “If your dreams don’t scare you, They aren’t big enough”. Nothing like living your dream in reality, but that never comes easy when you’re building your brand from the ground up. Prior til my move to Atlanta back in 2016, I lost my twin sister Mar. 13, 2016. That’s also the day before I lost my mother Mar. 14, 2010. I suffer from yearly trauma because I’m reminded of those last days I had with my mother from passing away from lung cancer. Now it’s double because those two death anniversaries are back to back. I try to be at peace when it does come, those two women truly inspired to become the designer I am today. My mother is a true inspiration when it comes to designing. My sister Briauna who was always my make-up artist for my shows and photoshoots back home. My last attempt at planning my fashion show here in Atlanta has always been eventful. I tried at least three times to plan my fashion show. I love progressing and growing my brand because “If it’s not growing, it’s dead”. My last attempt was last year, May 2021. At the time, I took in a kid, who was homeless, he was my younger cousin’s friend she attended school with. I’m very family-oriented and love to be there for the younger generation of my family. One of my first jobs was program director at the Boys and Girls Club at 15, outside of my artistry. So kids always have a special place in my heart. It was nothing for me to quickly adjust my life for his, who didn’t even start. But how tables turned when after weeks moved in, he stole my car the day before I went to view a venue spot for my show. So my fashion show got pushed back til now.
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 a fashion designer for men, women, and gender fluid. I would say I specialize in streetwear. I don’t like to limit myself, I designed anything from swimwear to bridal. I would like to describe my design ethic to be streetwear couture. I’m known for designing a lot with harnesses garments with structure or movement. I’m also known for my harness sweaters. I’m most proud of the designer I am today and my progression, I plan to keep growing no matter what. Being in this industry is a forever learning experience. What sets me apart from other designers, core values and my unique eye for fashion. TK has range and doesn’t limit itself to excel more and more.
What does success mean to you?
Success is a personal achievement that should be made within yourself. As long as you accomplish everything you want to accomplish, it’ll be defined as success. It never comes easy for something that you want so badly, and always make sure you’re doing it for yourself and no one else.
Contact Info:
- Email: TKFashionDesign@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tktylerkirkland/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FashionDesignerTK
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/TKTylerKirkland
Image Credits
KendollMix Photography
