On this week's blog, we’re highlighting a young woman that embodies everything that Arrow Creative celebrates. Symiah Saulsberry, is a Memphis native and Memphis Fashion Week alumni who is well on her way to being a history maker in the world of fashion. Symiah is an entrepreneur, a designer and innovator. She believes in giving back to her community. She takes pride in her work and believes that elegance is always key. Symiah isn’t afraid to take risks or to fail. She has dreams and goals that she will one day achieve. Symiah knows the value of empowering others. She believes, “in order to love yourself, you must first believe in yourself.”
Can you tell us a little bit about the moment you realized you were an artist?
I’ve always had a passion for fashion since I was a little girl. I remember participating in my first Memphis Fashion Week in 2019 and winning. It was at that moment that I knew this was something I was called to do. I now have a custom clothing line, Signature Struts, that specializes in prom, evening and bridal wear.
How did you learn to sew?
I began teaching myself to sew three years ago at the age of fourteen and my skills have improved through consistent practice.. After graduation, my plan is to goto fashion school where I can dive deeper into my craft and strengthen my skills.
How do you measure success in your work?
I measure success in my work by ensuring that every piece I create is done with perfection and is a representation of my slogan “Don’t Just Wear It, Own It”.
Who do you consider as your most influential mentor? What artist inspires you the most?
My most influential mentor is Mrs. Jessie Woodson. She is a talented seamstress and has helped me greatly. She is amazing, talented, strong and brilliant! The list could go on and on. I draw so much inspiration from her work ethic. She is truly a Memphis gem.
Do you have a creative hour or activity that inspires your creativity?
My creative hour consists of me sketching. I like to pull away from the world and enter my own world of design. What also helps me is staying up to date with the latest trends from other designer brands. I immerse myself in fashion by following fashion shows, blogs, magazines, social media… anywhere fashion can be found.
What compromises have you had to make in order to succeed? Has it been worth all of your effort?
People see the end results and assume that Cinderella's helpers pulled everything together. I’ve missed social events and have said “no” to plans with my friends.. I understood that I had work to get done and compromising my social time was necessary for my success. I had a vision that needed to be brought forth. It has definitely been worth the sacrifice becauseI can now say, “I am a young successful entrepreneur.”
Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years? Who will you be?
I see myself opening a boutique for Signature Struts. I see my designs at events such as The Met Gala, Bet Awards, The Oscars, The Emmys and the Golden Globes. I Will be one of the top designers in the world. That’s the plan!! I am ready to work towards making all of that happen.
What do you love about being a creative in Memphis?
I love Memphis and it will always have a special place in my heart. It has allowed me to grow, develop and learn. I am grateful to be from a city with such a rich design community.
“I would tell that young girl to follow her dreams and to stay true to who she is and her designs. I’d also encourage her to find her niche as this will allow her work to stand out from the rest,” said Symiah.
Keep an eye out for rising design star Symiah Saulsberry, she is a force to be reckoned with. If you want to keep up with Symiah and her designs she can be found on Instagram: | @signaturesports_ & @signaturestruts |
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