“ Love as if you have never been hurt”, Tosha Clemens
Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Tosha Clemens
Company/Designer Name: LaBosh | Tosha Clemens
Designer Background Summary: I grew up in a small town in Tennessee. I spent my time looking at tons of magazines since we only had a few stores in our town. In the summer my family and I would live in New York City and I would model for Ford Modeling Agency. I have always loved fashion and wanted to accessorize differently than anyone else.
How did you get started? I came to Los Angeles to attend FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising). Since graduating I have worked for a few companies such as bebe, Frederick’s of Hollywood and Sue Wong. I gained a lot of experience and my desire for accessories grew into what it is today.
What inspires your designs? I like to be open to let myself get inspiration from anything I see. For color it could be landscape/flowers. The silhouette of the bag can come from buildings. The texture usually comes from different fabrics.
How would you describe your design style? Old Hollywood Glam! Vintage meets Modern
What designers inspire you? Chloe & Dior
What obstacles did you have to overcome? My experience and knowledge is in product development. The major obstacle now is learning sales & marketing.
How did you overcome them? Going to a Trade Show to learn the process. The experience was extremely helpful.
What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far? Seeing other people enjoy my designs!
Where are you headed personally and professionally? I enjoy reading so I feel this year is going to involve a lot of motivational books. Our plan professionally is to expand the brand into more boutiques.
If money were no object what would you do right now?I would open LaBosh stores domestically & internationally and expand the brand to other accessories. However, I have learned it is great to be patient and in your due season everything will come to pass!
What are the best and worst things about being a designer? Being creative and expressive is wonderful and exciting. On the other hand, it can be hard not to take things personal when someone has something negative to say about your designs or process.
Describe your typical day? My days are centered around the computer. Emailing line sheets to stores. Following up on orders and depending on what part of the season you are on it can involve designing/researching for the next season.
What’s your philosophy of life? Love as if you have never been hurt. True happiness is routed in love!
What’s your favorite meal time setting? I love breakfast. I grew up eating biscuits & gravy (It’s a southern thing) Since I have gotten older I have realized I should try to be more healthy!
If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? Nothing – I believe everything in your life (good & bad) makes you into the person you are today. I wouldn’t want to replace that wisdom.
When will you know you have made it? When all my goals and desires are accomplished!!
