MY INTERVIEW WITH CEO AND LUXURY SHOE DESIGNER ON THE RISE, SHATIARRA MONROE OF SHATIARRA MONROE COLLECTION

WRITTEN BY SHARRA GREENE, FEATURING SHATIARRA MONROE

Designer and CEO Shatiarra Monroe modeling her Feb 14. shoe. Brand images by Stewdio Photography.

If you follow fashion and you’re from my city, you’ve probably seen poppin’ women all over your timeline completing their fits with a pair of signature feathery lace up heels by Shatiarra Monroe Collection. Launching on Valentines Day this year, the online shoe company captured the attention of many with a sultry shoe campaign and has since been growing a tribe of women all over Baltimore who love pairing the brand’s 4 inch showstoppers with their flyest fits. I got to witness the growth as a long time Instagram follower of Shatiarra’s.

I initially took notice of Shatiarra’s account due to her sexy yet classy personal style (plus, she’s gorg) but I began really keeping up when she announced that she was working on something BIG. She definitely wasn’t wrong… and if you know me, you know I’m always on the lookout for new brands to connect with and support, especially ones that are owned by young black women. So It was only right that I reach out to the woman behind the brand. I’m so honored to be the first to interview Shatiarra on behalf of her shoe collection! Check out our interview below as we talk her inspiration, the pros and cons of owning and building her business, and the lessons she's learned on her journey so far.

Sharra: So, I've been following you on IG for quite some time ( I think even since we were both in high school, tbh) and I've always thought you were such a doll! A while back, I noticed your eye for statement pieces, sleek hairstyles, and a soft glam beat. That's what initially attracted me to check out your page because I honestly felt that your style reminded me a little of my own. When did you first take a real interest in fashion and style?

Shatiarra: Aww thanks, it’s amazing to hear that there’s someone who’ve watched me over the years and paid attention to detail and it’s even more fulfilling knowing that the person…well you, are such a beautiful spirit. I value that acknowledgement because I am a person who pays attention to detail. I’ve been into fashion for like ever. My challenge has always been trying to find an item that I thought up.

As I child I’d wear the little cha-cha slides from Walmart and I had them in all colors but I’d try to hook them up with my clothes and it was hard because my slides were lit and my clothes weren’t lit so I then had to make my basic clothes into lit clothes. Fast forward to like high school and I’d make bows to wear with my uniforms and do something crazy with my hair. Every phase of my life displays me trying to work with what I have to get the image I want to portray.

Model Cori Bullock wearing the AG shoe, coming soon to ShatiarraMonroe.com.

Sharra: You’re so welcome! So, In today's social media world, there are so many people launching fast fashion clothing boutiques (which we love, but let's face it, there are sooo many, it can be a real challenge to stand out amongst competition). What inspired you to go a different route and take on the task of creating a luxury shoe line in your early twenties?

Shatiarra: I use to feel like I wouldn’t excel at having a successful business because I wouldn’t satisfy everyone. Everything changed the moment I decided that I would just be myself, produce products that I absolutely love, and value myself. That’s it. It sounds cocky but I don’t aim to please anyone. I envision designs and scratch the itch that I get from that. Then, I put in the work to get that idea into something tangible.

This inspires me because I see designers put the bare minimum into their brands, but they are popular or they have a following so, it sells. Imagine if the quality and overall design was as lit as the person behind it all. That’s where I found my lane because I am that. I love everyone who supports my collection because everything I put out and plan to put out is precious to me and to know the world is accepting of it is very comforting for me and it’s the push that keeps me going to continue to grow my collection.

Sharra: You make a good point as far as a lot of people half doing something and having it pop off for them. But I like to think that authenticity always wins so as long as you’re authentic, I feel like there will always be that tribe of supporters that relate to your vision. What do you believe sets your brand apart from other luxury shoe lines out there?

Shatiarra: I believe I am set apart from other luxury shoe brands because I am not trying to fit in. Everyone says this but here’s the kicker, I also do not care to stand out. It’s like a middle ground that I found myself in and not a lot of shoe designers are able to be here. Either a shoe is giving everything and more or it’s pretty basic. Nothing is wrong with that either, but I find myself completely separate from both, yet satisfying, either way a person wants to go, and it’s not something I aim for or that I ever have the intention of doing. It’s just how my personality has seemed to show face in my work.

Shoe styles: Feb 14 & Premier.

Sharra: That’s a cool middle ground to have. I feel like finding that happy medium between elaborate and super simple designs diversifies the type of people who are attracted to your product… So, the city of Baltimore is often rumored to be/associated with being full of people who have an unsupportive, "crabs in a barrel" mentality. So I HAVE TO ASK, upon launching, did you experience this at all or did you receive the support that you wanted and expected with birthing and selling your own collection?

Shatiarra: So, I did not experience this when I launched and if it did take place it was nothing that I was aware of. I only paid attention and gravitated to the love. Maybe if I chose an industry that was over saturated or popular in our city, I probably would have seen a disconnect from the support that I expected vs. the support that I got, but I don’t know anyone in our city with a shoe collection that they personally designed. If so, I’d love to meet them. I love to see people into the same thing that I’m into.

Sharra: I love your perspective on that. Only focusing and gravitating to the love literally can cut the number of distractions in half. So, you describe your own personal style as "elegant and classy with a hint of edginess". Is there anyone who heavily inspires your personal style? Possibly, a style icon or public figure that you would love to style in a pair of your signature shoes?

Shatiarra: Believe it or not, I find inspiration everywhere. I’m into Pinterest and I save bookmarks on Instagram of so many different looks and ideas. I can’t pin point a particular person because I take bits and pieces from absolutely everywhere. I’m just like anyone else when it comes to their business, I want my shoe collection to be spotted on some of the greatest. The issue with people like myself is that after that occurs, it will still always be an accomplishment I’ll find myself always trying to achieve. Right now, I like to look at like “instagram famous” models and determine who I would want to do promo for my shoes. I have a promo strategy that the models love and I look to reach out to larger IG models with a similar approach.

Sharra: Reaching out to those with a strong presence and personal brand on IG is definitely a good move on your part because even though I’ve been following you for a long time, seeing your product on girls all around the city, all over my explore page is what really opened my eyes to how fast your brand is catching on, which is so dope. So, how has your life changed since launching Shatiarra Monroe Shoe Collection and what are 2 lessons you've learned from being a business owner, one personal and one professional?

Shatiarra modeling her AG shoe, coming soon to ShatiarraMonroe.com.

Shatiarra: OMG, you’d be amazed at the major lessons I’ve learned since launching because it’s not what a lot of people are vocal about when it comes to the cons. I’ve learned that I like the friends that I acquired through business more than I like my lifelong friends and relatives. It’s a breath of fresh air meeting people who think like me because although I love the people closest to me, we all are not necessarily on the same page when it comes to making moves, otherwise we would all be winning big right now.

A professional lesson that I’ve learned is that profit is not going to come right away. I used to hear this all day but as a business, of course your goal is to make a profit and if I’m selling then I felt like I should see my profit right away. But no… and people don’t talk about why but it just doesn’t happen that way. The money comes 2nd. You have to love what you do first, and this is how I run my collection. Remembering the love that I have for what I’m doing is how I find resolution in that lesson.

Sharra: YES! You a real one for bringing that up because like you said, it’s something that’s almost taboo when it comes to new business owners and creatives entrepreneurs so I’m glad that you were able to learn that lesson early and still keep going. Last but not least, I peeped an accessories tab on the site, is that something we should be looking out for soon or will you be adding accessories to your inventory way later on down the line?

Shatiarra: Accessories are coming very soon. I plan to have 20 items on my site by the end of the summer. I have so many ideas so right now my dilemma is organizing it all. I will venture into clothing and accessories eventually but my primary focus will remain on creating luxury women shoes.

~Thank you so much for chopping it up with me, Shatiarra! I’m so excited to see what your future holds, girly! All love!

Like what you see? Click here Shop Shatiarra Monroe Collection! Follow the shoe page to keep up with future releases and follow Shatiarra on Instagram for more glimpses of her day to day life and her bomb personal style!

Hope you guys enjoyed this interview! More content coming very soon to the Walking Art Blog. Stay tuned!

Sharra,

“The definition of walking art.”

CONVOS WITH CLAIRE NYC 2018 RECAP! MAJOR NETWORKING VIBES AND INSIGHT FROM THE INDUSTRY'S BEST

WRITTEN BY SHARRA GREENE & PHOTOS BY LAURENCE JAMES

So, this past weekend, I attended the well-anticipated Convos With Claire fashion networking mixer. I’m pretty sure most know who trailblazing fashion media maven Claire Sulmers is (especially if you follow posts on here because she’s my role model) , but for those of you who don’t know, Claire is the founder and editor in Chief of Fashion Bomb Daily, one of the world’s most influential fashion websites. She also maintains her own lifestyle blog called The Bomb Life, while serving as an influencer and brand ambassador for the likes of Verizon, Martini & Rossi, and more.

I finally met Claire during fashion week back in September, so I was definitely excited to link with her again! At her mixers, Claire is known for bringing together the stylish and ambitious discuss various topics in fashion and business with some of the industry’s best. For this particular event, Claire brought out a star studded panel to drop gems on us, at the Flat NYC on 24th Street. Panelists included Celebrity Stylist, Designer, Instructor, and Global Creative Partner of MCM, Misa Hylton, Television Personality & Entrepreneur Bevy Smith, and Designer and Furrier to your celeb faves, Duckie Confetti. The event’s theme was animal print.

Starting with a BOMB VIP Brunch and red carpet welcome featuring DJ JFK, the atmosphere was intriguing and inviting as fashion creatives settled in to vibe and shop. Claire typically uses her events to bring awareness to dope brands that many may not be familiar with already. Vendors included: Black Tag Apparel, Mess in a Bottle, Nroda Sunglasses, Red Eye Luxe, Boutte Rouge Boutique, Yvonne Jewnell, LaMonique Cosmetics, and Vanity Storm.

I instantly connected with a few fellow bloggers as we helped each other flick it up while bouncing our creative ideas off of each other. Not long after, the panel began as my photographer arrived to help me get content. I literally gained so much knowledge and insight but a few of my main takeaways included…

“MAKE STRATEGIC MOVES WITHIN YOUR BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS THAT WILL LATER ON BE PROFITABLE IN THE LONG TERM” -via DUCKIE CONFETTI

Talking about doing “work for free”, so to speak, is often a topic that is considered almost taboo in the fashion industry. As fashionistas questioned what type of “free” work was the right move, Duckie gave insight on how he strategizes when it comes to this. He shared how he gave Meek Mill’s stylist a leopard sleeve hoodie free of charge, knowing that seeing the very well known rapper in his merch would influence people to shop (he was right, this one move alone made him 6 figures). He stressed to us the importance of making sacrifices for your brand that will likely have a high upside, financially.

“THE STRUGGLE IS GOOD FOR YOU, IT GIVES YOU CONFIDENCE, SUBSTANCE & GRIT!”- via BEVY SMITH

Though Bevy is now a very well established professional, she shared how there was a 7 year era where she would have to “go out and hunt and kill” for work. She stressed how though this was one of the most difficult times of her life, it was the time in her life that built her character the most. Bevy encouraged those on the quest to manifest big dreams to not be in the rush for “success” or “stardom” and to embrace their current struggles because quite often the struggle itself is what’s propelling you toward the life you dream about.

“YOUR VISION IS CLEAR, NOW JUST CONTINUE TO EXECUTE” - via MISA HYLTON

Upon me asking iconic stylist Misa Hylton what moves I should make to continuously set me apart in my craft, she asked what makes me unique. Once I told her how it’s my passion for who my clients truly are and using that to create looks that speak to their highest self, she reassured me how clear my individuality already is.

Misa shared how it took her a while to gain confidence as a stylist being that she first got into the business with her then boyfriend. But it took for her to keep going after they ended to really recognize who she was and what she wanted to achieve as a stylist. She let me know that from here on out, its all about using the knowledge I gain from each experience to move forward and do what works for me because the path for everyone is not the same.

“KEEP GOING, YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU’RE POSITIVELY INFLUENCING “ - via CLAIRE SULMERS

While sharing with us how she felt so close to giving up lately due to the challenges that Fashion Bomb Daily had been facing as a business, she simply didn’t. She got emotional looking at the AMAZING turn out of the event, saying that was just what she needed to reassure her that she was doing something right. She inspired us to keep going because we never know who we’re motivating and influencing. The mixer’s turn out was living proof of that!

After a little more networking and connecting, I left the event SO ready to execute on the new insight. It’s crazy because this past week, I hadn’t been feeling well at all. A couple days before leaving for the event, I came down with the worst cold I’ve had in a while so I was feeling so drained. Honestly, as excited as I was for the meet up, the last thing I felt like doing was going out. But this weekend definitely taught me that you never know what blessings and great opportunities you give up when you only focus on what you feel like doing.

I wanna encourage you to also push past your comfort zone, even when you may not feel like it. Take time to invest in your craft and don’t be afraid to seek out experiences that will contribute to your growth!

Shop My Look: I am wearing a snake print mock neck top and faux fur coat from Boohoo, Missguided burgundy wrap faux suede mini skirt, Miss Lola thigh high boots, House of Rehab bag, and Forever 21 drop earrings.

Sharra,

“The definition of walking art.”

P.S. There will be many more Convos With Claire meet ups for those who wanna attend in the future! Keep your eyes peeled on the @convoswithclaire Instagram page and Fashion Bomb Daily.

Want more recap content? Check out this recap on Style With Sharra: The Podcast Series.

MY NEW YORK FASHION WEEK SEPTEMBER 2018 RECAP + 4 TIPS FOR ATTENDING NYFW !

WRITTEN BY SHARRA GREENE

SO, This was my first fashion week where I would be working as an independent stylist! When I say independent, I mean solo dolo, as in not appointed by an agency. Needless to say, it was a dream come true. From working with one of my favorite brands to meeting my favorite fashion writer, it was definitely one that I’ll remember forever.

Like I’ve told everyone who's asked me about my experience, NYFW took all the energy I had, in the best way possible! From preparing designer collections before they made their runway debut to maneuvering around NYC trying to make it to shows on time, on top of making sure I connected with my NY based friends while I was in town, it was a hectic, fast paced, and fun all at once. I’ve learned so much in just a matter of days and I’m already planning for February’s fashion week! Here are a few highlights from my experience as well as 4 tips I’m passing along for anyone whose interested in attending.

Dressing Models for the Matte Brand Show…

Since I was hired by Style Fashion Week to work with multiple designers, I had no idea who exactly I would be dressing for when I arrived. of course, I knew of some of the designers that would be showcasing at Style Fashion Week. However, weeks before I left for NYC, every time I would check the schedule, something was different. Some designers were added, some were taken off. There were rumors going around at the venue that Briana Shanee of Matte Brand would be showing later on and as dope as I thought that would be since I wear her clothes and LOVE them, I kinda shrugged it off because I hadn’t seen her there.

Photos courtesy of Style Fashion Week and Matte Brand.

As I was walking past a room where style assignments were being given, I saw Briana walk in not long after. She asked a group of stylists to start assisting her with the line up and I immediately got to work, helping her plan the debut of this BOMB collection. Though I was backstage assisting multiple designers with styling the models, Matte was my main assignment for the day. Briana was down to earth, cool under pressure, and she knew what she wanted, which made working with her such a great experience.

Photo by me.

cc: Style Fashion Week.

Watching the collections come to life on the runway for Briana and a host of other designers was beyond rewarding. Being able to have a double view of the backstage craze and the hard work we were putting in to make everything come together, while watching the crowd react not long after just made me appreciate the craft so much more. The show was complimented with a BOMB performance of Shade by artist Sonyae Elise (I’ve been listening to this song everyday since I got back, it’s a forever mood).

On top of that, watching Courtland, ( a.k.a Court Kim, one of my friends that I met back in April at the Angelman Syndrome event) walk in the show and get a standing ovation made me so happy and proud to see all of her hard work on her personal brand pay off! Stay tuned for an exclusive interview with Court, coming very soon!

Court Kim making her NYFW debut.

Watching the Yas Couture Show

If you follow the red carpet styles of Jlo, Ashanti, and Gwen Stefani, just to name a few, you’re probably familiar with the work of Elie Madi of Yas Couture without even knowing it. The couture label is known for their glistening gowns with sultry silhouettes. Luckily, I was finished dressing models just in time to catch some front row views at the venue’s only couture show of the day. Models dripped in glitter, sequins, and feathers shining on lush fabrics.

Photos by Me.

ATTENDING SHOWS POWERED BY FASHION BOMB DAILY & MEETING CLAIRE SULMERS

On my last day in town, I was pretty exhausted from working behind the scenes all day for the first two days. I had plans to attend some shows, enjoy being in the audience, and of course, network. I had front row tickets for a showcase of emerging designers, hosted by FBD founder Claire Sulmers and wardrobe stylist H Diddy. One thing that I love about seeing the work of emerging talent is that you can literally see the passion and hunger through their work, which is not always the case with some designers who may already have some skin in the game. I was more than impressed.

On top of that, I almost cried meeting Claire Sulmers (anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE ME SOME HER). We had a brief conversation but she was super sweet and encouraging! I’m definitely looking forward to further connecting with her in the near future. Peep some of my favorite collections from the shows below.

Blac Glas

The opener was Blac Glas. When I tell you, this collection had me wanting to get up out my seat but I didn’t wanna block the view! The designer is all about creating contemporary clothing for women that is sexy, yet classy and modern yet vintage inspired. I was literally in awe at her unique point of view and her eye for detail. My favorite look was a hot pink coat with colorful snakeskin and vinyl panels and huge fur sleeves (above). I could definitely tell that nothing but the best materials were chosen to execute this collection.

Christien Kollection

The finale show and main event was by Christien of Christien Kollection. This man is a MASTER TAILOR. Not only did he give us impeccably fitting two and three piece suits out of vibrant textiles and prints but he also served us some gorgeous couture gowns in lush fabrics. I was in love, along with a lot of the audience.

Photos courtesy of Tyree Thomas of Ivistofoto. See more of his work at Ivistofoto.com

4 TIPS FOR ATTENDING FASHION WEEK…

1. Pack Clothing Options for Several Different Weather Conditions

With NYC’s unpredictable weather, packing looks that you can switch out if the weather switches up is crucial.

2. Choose Looks That Make a Statement

Fashion week is not just about the looks on the runway. It’s also about appreciating both the art and commerce sides of fashion with others, networking, and making meaningful connections with people. Putting together eye catching looks can serve as ice breakers and conversation starters, doing some of the work for you when it comes to networking.

3. Make Travel Plans Ahead of Time

Though a lot of fashion shows are held in Manhattan, different shows tend to be scattered around town at different venues. If you want to hit as many shows as possible, create an itinerary of shows you want to attend, research the tickets / requirements needed to attend.

Then, map out your travel plans based on the show’s locations and how you’ll be getting from point A to B, whether it be via subway, Uber, walking, etc. Making these plans ahead of time will save you a lot of time, energy, and stress once you’re heading out.

4. Be Confident

Whether you’re working behind the scenes to produce the shows, attending as part of the audience, or doing both like I did, confidence is key. Having confidence in your skills, point of view, and what you can bring to the table can help you make new friends and potential business partners or clients. Never let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong. If you have a major interest in fashion and style and the knowledge to go with it, then you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

Attending this season’s NYFW was beyond inspiring and motivating for me. I’m already looking forward to do it all over again in February!

Thank you to Style Fashion Week and each of the bomb designers that I was able to work with, as well as everyone that showed love and support to me during the hectic week! See any looks above that you like? Comment your thoughts below! Let’s chop it up. New posts coming your way very soon!

Sharra,

“The definition of walking art.”

5 LESSONS I'VE LEARNED AS A STYLIST: ON THE LATEST EPISODE OF STYLE WITH SHARRA: THE PODCAST SERIES

#behind thescenes: See more from this shoot here

     When I started pursuing a styling career at age 18, I knew I had A LOT to learn. In the beginning, I had insecurities, limited resources, and a whole bunch of questions. Though I still have a long way to go before I achieve all that I want, I'm honestly just so grateful for all that I've learned on this journey so far. Looking back, I realize how much what I've learned can help all of my fellow young bosses who are pursuing a career in fashion, or any creative career for that matter. So if you're an aspiring stylist or creative, this episode is definitely for you! 

      In this episode of Style With Sharra, I'm going a little beneath the surface, reflecting on my styling journey while sharing some of the many lessons that I've learned as a creative and as a businesswoman. Tune in to get to know more about my humble beginnings, skills that I believe set a great stylist apart from the rest, and challenges that I still face to this day! Take a listen and comment your thoughts of questions!

Take a listen and let me know your thoughts or questions in the comment!

Sharra,

"The definition of walking art."