Tiffaney Monroe is designing, sewing and networking her way to the top of her field. The senior fashion merchandising major is taking a hands-on approach to design with her own clothing line, Jordan Tiffaney.
Tiffaney says that she has been making clothes for herself for years, but recently her hobby took on a more serious form. Within the last two years, the retailing student has been making her dream of becoming a fashion designer a reality by not only focusing on creating her garments, but also getting those designs featured in fashion shows and magazines.
“My clothing label, Jordan Tiffaney, was featured in the Hot Summer Nights fashion show at the Convention Center on August 30,” says Tiffaney.
The aspiring designer has been gaining knowledge and experience about the industry for years. Tiffaney says that she has been surrounded by seamstresses her whole life, worked in the costume shop at USC and is currently fulfilling an apprenticeship with tailor Nick Nicoleau of Nick’s Tailoring.
“I have been working with owners of boutiques, hair stylists and
other designers, so I have been networking with many
business professionals.”
“I have been working with owners of boutiques, hair stylists and other designers, so I have been networking with many business professionals.”
Tiffaney has also been working with her family. Her two sisters, Jasmine and Angel, are her business partners. She says that the three work well together and each bring something new and inspiring to the table.
Tiffaney, who says that she is inspired by life and the world around her, personally sews each of her garments. She enjoys making the pieces for clients but says that it takes about six to eight weeks to produce an item.
“My clothing line is timeless, chic, elegant and fun,” says Tiffaney. “It is for every woman who loves herself and her body. My clothing is just an extension of her wonderful, charismatic and charming character.”
“I realize that I need to know about the business aspect of the fashion industry,” says Tiffaney. “I need to know how my company will be able to handle cash flow.”
Tiffaney always knew that she wanted to study fashion and considered going to a design school, but she chose USC’s fashion merchandising program because she wanted her focus to include more business related classes. She even considers accounting one of the most useful classes that she has taken.
“I realize that I need to know about the business aspect of the fashion industry,” says Tiffaney. “I need to know how my company will be able to handle cash flow.”
Tiffaney ultimately wants to continue pursuing design and hopes to eventually become a household name, with her designs being featured in boutiques around the world.
As for other aspiring designers, Tiffaney encourages them to dream big. “Be passionate about what you do, stay focused, have a plan and have fun!” she says.