Latoia Fitzgerald is behind Lionne and Dillonger Clothing – the former a women’s’ clothing line, the latter a children’s brand named after the designer’s son Dillon. Fitzgerald’s affection for the arts developed at a young age, which seems natural when your mother is a seamstress and your father a videographer. By the age of 10, this Philadelphia-bred designer was sewing and creating her own garments. She found early success in making clothes for friends while still in high school, inspiring her to enroll at the Art Institute of Philadelphia for Fashion Design. In 2010, she launched a contemporary brand with a friend, Michelle Savage, called LaToia Michelle. Today, she’s focused on Lionne, which debuted in 2019, and Dillonger, which hit the market in 2014. If there’s one thing Ms. Fitzgerald emphasized during our discussion, it’s the need to comprehend the financial side of being a designer. Meet Latoia.

What was your motivation for becoming a fashion designer?

I was naturally attracted to it and consistently adored making things. It’s kind of comical that both my sister and I would go with our mom to the fabric store; however, she detested it and thought that it was boring. I, on the other hand, adored it and was energized by it. My mother showed me how to read pattern pieces and how to make some jeans, and I made replicas of those jeans so that I had enough to wear to class Monday through Friday. Michael’s was my #1 store growing up, and our basement was a mini fabric store, thanks in massive part to my mom being a fabric hoarder. Every weekend, we would take a trip to Jomar because the fabric was sold cheaply, whereas Joann’s Fabric was a lot pricier.

What’s been the most challenging part of becoming a fashion designer and staying one?

The hardest part for me used to be the financial aspect. When I first began, I had no idea how much I was spending, nor how much I was bringing in. Now, I clearly understand the business side of things, which in return allows my business to run smoother. You need to ensure everything is together on the backend for you to remain above water. As designers, we always need to seek out inspiration. Obviously, it’s hard for anyone to be inspired during a pandemic. Still, I try my best to read new books, watch fashion documentaries, visit art galleries, and even look at things on social media to keep my creativity going.

What are your aspirations for Lionne clothing and Dillonger clothing?

There was a time when I longed to have my garments carried in luxury department stores; however, due to the current climate, that has changed. I want to focus more on perfecting my Direct-to-Consumer approach and connecting more with my customers. I’m hoping Lionne continues to grow nationally and internationally, as I eventually would love to dive into the home décor arena as well. Dillonger is a little more challenging as it isn’t easy to manufacture. Children’s clothing costs the same amount of money to produce as an adult brand does. The size range is cosmic, making it more costly. Sure, there’s less fabric involved, and that really is the only upside because the patterns and production cost the same amount as a brand made for adults.

Is there any advice or message about being a designer that you’d like to share with those looking to follow in your footsteps?

I would encourage people to start small. Starting with four to six pieces in your first collection is the best advice I can give – or begin with merchandise like T-shirts, hoodies, and the like. It’s costly, and you don’t know how the product will sell once it hits the market. Start small, see what sells best, and recognize your bestseller, then continuing producing that piece. Our staple is our white button-up; we have it in many twists, designs, and fabrics. My next recommendation is to make sure your finances are in order because that is a significant part, and some people don’t take that as seriously as they ought to.

Since it is Black History Month, I would love to know what this month represents for you.

I have blended sentiments about Black History Month because our culture and the things Black individuals have invented, defeated, and have had to overcome can’t just be applauded in one month. It ought to be celebrated all year; there’s simply too much to be discussed.

Is there any ancestor of ours you wish you could’ve met and why?

I definitely would’ve loved to meet Malcolm X! Malcolm’s tactics of by any means necessary and willingness to fight for his beliefs really resonates with me. In my hometown of Philadelphia, that is very much the mindset of many people in the urban community. We have to act boldly and not be afraid to speak up for ourselves to produce real change; the days of being silent and complacent are over.

Are there any Black Designers known or unknown that you would like to bring to the CFDA’s attention?

Anifa Mvuemba of Hanifa. Without a doubt, she’s somebody I can call up for help with navigating within this demanding industry and the fact that she’s black means so much to me! A19, a contemporary RTW brand established by Kara Chin, is also a great brand to watch. These two ladies are incredibly passionate about their craft, and I want to continue to see more African American female designers getting recognized for their hard work and talent.

LionneClothing.com