The former ESPN executive procures her inspiration from the stylish streets of her Harlem neighborhood and her native Jamaican heritage.
What was your inspiration for designing bespoke clothing in African textiles?
My corporate role at ESPN was downsized five years ago, and during that process, I experienced a ton of soul searching. I found myself spending an enormous amount of time strolling the streets of Harlem, and became inspired by the colors, the sounds of the neighborhood, the beautiful flowing robes of Africans going to prayer….and on 125th Street, sitting there, the idea that I needed to create a beautiful caftan literally came to me =. I love the kimono! And through my process of reinvention, I came up with an idea. In conjunction, my life changed…….and I wanted a piece I could just wear over a tee and jeans that could take me from basic to glam effortlessly. I started with one caftan. I took the last of my means and began to create.
What were your greatest challenges?
I probably sound like a broken record- but funding is the biggest challenge. It’s also lack of mentorship. When you’re an outsider, and you’re not a designer, trying to get into a world with no support system is not easy. These have been my utmost challenges.
What advice quote would you give to an emerging designer like yourself, that wants success in the fashion business?
Be true to yourself, be true to your craft, start with what you have, start how you can, and find a community. Find people who will support you and your art.
JUNNY is making custom masks while she and her sewers are separately quarantined. All materials are upcycled with zero waste, and in the bold colorful aesthetic as her custom pieces. She donates over 20/40 masks per week to those in need as a way to purposely serve her Harlem community with pride and provide some income for her two sewers during this crisis. Furthermore, her small business is doing its best to manage during COVID-19, and there is hope. JUNNY has several major contracts pending and a sales consultancy with Cristina Cuomo and her lifestyle platform, The Purist.
Web: www.junny.nyc
IG: @iamjhibby
