One to Watch: Asata Maisé
Asata Maisé, a fashion designer who incorporates vintage materials into each of her handmade pieces, has recently been selected for Halsey’s Black Creators Funding Initiative. Maisé’s designs are intricate and one of a kind; in addition to dresses, blazers, blouses, and pants, she plays on 90s nostalgia with classic shoulder bags while integrating modern trends like bucket hats into her collections. In a time of tragedy and revolution, many brands have been actively trying to uplift and promote Black creators - Asata being one of them. In this interview, we discuss her style (an intersection of multiple fashion eras and materials) her inspirations, upbringing, and the impact of BLM on her career.
How would you describe your brand?
My brand is an extension of myself. A few words I'd use to describe my brand would be nostalgic, frivolous, and genuine.
I read that your passion for sewing and fashion began when you were fourteen. How has your creative vision evolved over the last decade, and has your upbringing impacted your design choices?
My taste, interest, and lifestyle has changed so much in the last decade. I prefer quality over quantity. I’ve been exposed to so many different cultures, films, music, and foods in my travels. As far as my upbringing, I always had to be creative. My mom frequently made something out of nothing - that gift has stayed with me throughout the years. My personal style developed from shopping at second hand stores because I simply couldn't afford new clothes from the mall as a teenager.
What or who inspires you, pushes you, and catalyzes your creative growth?
This is always difficult to answer because I could go on for days about who/what specifically inspires me. My Tumblr blog is a good starting point to see what I'm recently indulging in (asatamaise.tumblr.com). One of the most pivotal moments in my life was in front of a panel of judges for the Project Runway auditions in 2018. The feedback I received was that I had vision but needed to get out of my comfort zone. That has stayed in the back of my mind for the last few years. In my recent work, I try to push the boundaries in whatever ways I can.
What drew you to the style of patchworking?
My intention is to limit my waste as much as possible. I’ve always kept fabric remnants from completed projects. One day, after seeing a vintage patchwork skirt on Etsy, I decided that’s what I could do with the leftover fabric pieces. Et voilà.
I’ve noticed you combine vintage elements of fashion with modern trends. What era of fashion would you say is your favourite to explore?
Probably the 60s into the early 70s combined with the early 2000s. Historically, the 60s & 70s were so unprecedented in not only design but also social and political revolution. The 2000s brought us sex appeal and freedom with high hopes of the new millennium.
In what ways have you had to understand business and entrepreneurship in your career? Do you think you were prepared for this?
I did not come from wealth or a family with financial literacy. I’ve worked in restaurants since the age of 17. I've learned time management, social skills, and saving as a server and manager. My mother is an entrepreneur, so naturally I was inclined to start my own business. I made a lot of mistakes and learned many lessons from them.
How has the BLM movement, and the push to buy from Black fashion designers and creatives, impacted your career?
It's changed my career overnight. I feel like I am finally getting recognition for all the hard work I've put in over the years. I'm able to get some help, have a studio space, and sell out in a matter of hours. It's unfortunate that it's happening under these circumstances. But I'd be a fool to reject support of my business. I hope that supporting Black artists is upheld forever and not just another trend.
How do you think we can ensure BLM is not just a trend in the world of fashion?
Continued funding for upcoming designers. Looking at internal company structures and making sure there is real diversity. Giving credit, fair pay and more opportunities to Black artists. Continuing to hold racists brands/designers/owners accountable for their actions.
Do you have any advice for young creatives trying to break into the world of fashion?
Now is the time. Post the project you've been working on. Ask for help and apply for grants. Look for internships. Know your worth.
Asata’s designs can be found at https://www.asatamaise.com/ or on her Instagram @asata.maise. She is definitely a designer to watch in the upcoming years.