Lynn alumna E’Naiyah Frazier’s journey to creating a sustainable fashion collection is a story of inspiration, perseverance, and embracing imperfection. Frazier’s collection, IMPERFECT 001, featured at this year’s Lynn Fashion Showcase, was inspired by the Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics, Kintsugi. The philosophy behind this art form is to find beauty in imperfections, and this is what Frazier embraced in her work.

Frazier’s journey started as a Lynn student, where she had the opportunity to feature three designs in the 2017 showcase. This experience inspired her to pursue a master’s degree in fashion design at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta, Georgia. Her educational journey resulted in her internationally recognized collection, IMPERFECT 001, which has been featured in Vogue Italia and Buckhaven City Lifestyle Magazine.

Frazier’s passion for denim started while working at J. Crew, where she discovered the retailer’s partnership with Blue Jeans Go Green™. This inspired her to create a sustainable collection rooted in the philosophy of Wabi-Sabi, which embraces imperfections. Frazier’s collection features recycled denim fused with unique dying patterns and her hand manipulations, reflecting the Kintsugi design in her work.

Frazier’s commitment to sustainability has earned her the sponsorship of ISKO Denim, a leading producer of denim. This partnership has led to Frazier’s first international fashion feature and earned her the title of Fashion Forward winner at the National Black Arts Festival in 2021. Frazier has also taken part in the first Atlanta Sustainable Fashion Week, debuted her collection at Lenox Square in Atlanta, and performed at STRIKKET! A Performative Catwalk in Norway.

Frazier’s dedication to staying on top of the latest fashion trends while also championing sustainability and uniqueness is truly inspiring. Her sights are now set on expanding her designs within the world of denim and creating her first menswear collection. As Frazier continues to embrace imperfection, she remains committed to the philosophy that influences her fashion, creativity, and life: be yourself.