As Telsha Anderson was planning to launch her business ’t.a.’ last year, she never could have anticipated the challenges 2020 would bring. A global pandemic coupled with a period of great social unrest would have disheartened most – but Anderson, a true optimist, persevered.

After her plans for opening were thwarted by a government stay-at-home order, Anderson quickly shifted the strategy. Within 24 hours, she had built an e-commerce website to sell available styles and took to social media to build her digital presence. Now, with her doors officially open for business, she is already attracting customers familiar with her brand. The luxury boutique in the heart of the Meatpacking District is a new gem in the city, featuring an eclectic assortment of emerging designers, including Maryam Nassir Zadeh, Barragan, and PH5.

We caught up with the young entrepreneur to hear more about her newly-launched retail location.

How long have you been in business?

t.a. officially opened our physical doors July 8th, but e-commerce launched prior in March after our initial debut was delayed due to COVID-19, completely flipping our launch strategy. Even though it’s only been a month (or three depending on whom you ask), it’s been quite a whirlwind!

Can you describe the overall aesthetic and feel of your store?

Stepping inside the store is like walking into my brain, my love letter to fashion, and my dream home. From the products we carry to our in-store decor, t.a.’s overall aesthetic is contemporary, diverse, provoking, intentional, and refreshing. It’s truly something you have to experience for yourself.

Why did you choose this location? What attracted you to this neighborhood?

Before t.a., some of my best nights were at the local bars, restaurants, and shops in Meatpacking, so this area was special to me in a memorable way. I ultimately knew having a Black-owned business in the center of one of the city’s most touristy attractions and in a place adored by residents would be beneficial. I sought for an area that held purpose but also sentimental value and Meatpacking is that for me.

How would you describe your customer?

Unpredictable, but appreciative. I love the versatility of the products we offer because we’re able to cater to a wider range of individuals who all have different perspectives. Our customers serve an array of styles that vary from something as subtle as an oversized tee paired with Pushbutton biker shorts, to an all-white Mozh Mozh dress or even a shapeshifting Eudon Choi trench coat. Although unpredictable, each customer is just as appreciative of the clothing’s fabric to the interior pieces that make t.a.

What are some of your favorite designers, products, and/or elements from the store?

My favorites change each week! But at the moment I’m obsessing over Antwaun Sargent’s book The New Black Vanguard: Photography Between Art and Fashion and it’s a total visual dream come true. Alongside NBV, I’m also loving the MRZ knitted bomber jacket and matching pants – there’s something about an oversized two-piece that I personally can’t ever resist. Recently I’ve been really enjoying the little things like my weekly morning walks to the local bodega to find different flowers to fill my Anissa Kermiche x Nodaleto Red Boot Vase.

How has COVID-19 impacted your business?

The pandemic hit t.a. like a Six Flags roller coaster. On top of having to delay the opening of brick and mortar due to stay-at-home orders, we still had to continue to pay rent for the space. However, that long three-month pause drew me deeper into focusing on building our digital audience, which I’m thankful for. I was able to connect and develop genuine relationships with future shoppers beyond just New York City. Not to mention, t.a. has gained a tremendous amount of love and support from the media, influencers, and everyone else in between.

What are your plans for reopening?

We finally opened early July! We’ve been complying with New York’s requirements and will continue to do so in order to keep everyone safe. No more than five people are allowed in the store at a time and masks are required. Additionally, we’ve been sanitizing the store throughout the day, as well as our garments after each try-on. I’m excited to continue providing our customers the safe, in-store experience they deserve.

What do you love about fashion retail?

There’s always a new perspective to discover in terms of fashion retail and design. To me, that’s the most exciting part of the fashion industry. There will always be a new approach to fashion retail or design – the innovations are never-ending. I also enjoy being introduced to different designers, conducting research, and having the opportunity to create in my own way.