Today we’d like to introduce you to Dejah Wallace.
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?
I’m originally from Jackson, MS, and I attended Tennessee State University, where I majored in Fashion Merchandising. As part of my graduation requirements, I completed an internship at Tyler Perry Studios in 2016. That experience allowed me to build a relationship with Crystal Hayslett, who was the costume designer at the time.
In 2018, I moved to Atlanta, and Crystal brought me on as her assistant. She was Mr. Perry’s stylist and the lead costume designer for all the shows and films at the studio. From there, I worked hard, expanded my network, and eventually established myself as a key costumer on numerous projects, even designing for several independent productions.
Being in this industry and surrounded by so many talented creatives pushed me to tap into my other gifts. I began personal styling and started designing menswear, which ultimately led to the launch of my own brand, Raza Men.
I’m truly grateful for the life I have. It hasn’t always been easy or glamorous, but I trust the path God has set for me—and I wouldn’t choose any other route.
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?
There has been nothing smooth about my journey. Anyone who knows the film and TV industry understands that we’re constantly searching for the next project—there’s no real job security here. Everything I have, I’ve earned. My mentor made sure I truly learned the craft; nothing was ever handed to me.
When you’re being trained by a pro, people notice. And sometimes, instead of being supportive, they let envy creep into their hearts, forgetting that there’s more than enough room for all of us to succeed. There were plenty of moments when I felt overlooked or underestimated, but there were also a handful of people who always believed in me—and for them, I’m forever grateful.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am all things fashion. I’m a film and TV costumer, a model, a stylist, and a designer. I’m most proud of taking on challenges, beating the odds, and seeing my work come to life on the big screen. I’m equally proud of stepping out of fear and finally bringing my menswear line to life.
As a woman designing for men, my perspective already sets me apart—but my brand goes deeper than that. Raza Men is about inspiring and affirming men through the Word of God, encouraging them to walk boldly in who He has called them to be, all through the lens of fashion. That’s the part that excites me most.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t mean to sound cliché, but luck has never played a role in my life—because I don’t believe in luck. I believe it’s all God and only God. He knew me and my purpose long before I was formed in my mother’s womb, and He’s the author of every chapter of my story.
So no, there’s been no luck—just God, all throughout my life and my business. He constantly shows me that I already have everything I need according to His riches and His glory. I’m simply grateful that He has guided me, covered me, and turned me every way but loose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://razamen.com
- Instagram: Iam_dejahlauren
- Facebook: Dejah Wallace
