The Art of Fearless Design: A Conversation with Shernett Swaby

I was five years old when I started sewing, and it was like discovering a whole new world. My mother, a seamstress, had this sewing machine, and I would watch her as she sat at that machine, creating magic out of fabric. I knew right then that I wanted to do the same. I remember making clothes for my dolls and later for myself. By the time I was in high school, I was designing for friends and family. It wasn’t just a hobby; it felt like an extension of who I am. Fashion gave me a voice before I even knew I needed one. It was as though I could tell a story without speaking, and that story was entirely my own.

My philosophy is rooted in authenticity and individuality. I believe fashion should empower people to express who they are unapologetically. Every piece I design is a conversation—a dialogue between the fabric, the wearer, and the story they want to tell. I don’t follow trends. Trends come and go, but style is eternal. I create for the person who isn’t afraid to stand out and make a statement. My designs are about confidence, and that’s why I’ve stayed true to my custom designs. It allows me to connect deeply with my clients and create something that’s truly theirs.

I often say my designs aren’t just clothing—they’re wearable art. Every stitch, every detail is intentional. I’m not afraid to experiment with textures, layers, or unconventional silhouettes because I want the wearer to feel like they’re stepping into their own spotlight.

I think one of the aspects of my work that truly sets me apart is how meticulously I approach the fitting process. I tailor every garment to perfectly complement the client’s unique body shape, taste, and personality. It’s not just about measurements; it’s about understanding who they are and how they want to feel. I often spend hours refining the fit, making adjustments until the garment feels like a second skin. It’s an intimate process that allows me to connect with my clients on a deeper level. They’re not just wearing my design; they’re uniquely expressing themselves.

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for me; it’s a responsibility. As designers, we have an obligation to minimize waste and make conscious choices. I’ve always believed in using every scrap of fabric. You can see this in the intricate details of every garment. I’m committed to ethical production, and every piece is made with quality to last.

Fast fashion is the antithesis of everything I stand for. When you invest in a Swaby design, you’re investing in quality, craftsmanship, and a piece that transcends seasons. One of the ways I ensure this is through my free alterations for life policy. I want my garments to evolve with my clients, so they’re not just buying a piece for one moment but something that can adjust to different seasons of life. Trends come and go, but my designs are meant to stay relevant and versatile for years.

I’m also currently working with sustainable and innovative fabrics that are not only environmentally friendly but also luxurious to wear. This allows me to maintain the beauty and integrity of my designs while doing my part for the planet.

The fashion world is incredibly competitive, and as someone who started with very limited resources, I had to learn to navigate it on my own. When I first started out, I did everything—designing, sewing, marketing—all by myself. Those were tough days, but they taught me the importance of perseverance and resourcefulness. You have to wear many hats when you’re building a business, especially in fashion. It’s not just about creativity; it’s about being strategic and disciplined.

One of the biggest obstacles was establishing trust and building my reputation. Early on, I decided to focus on bespoke designs because I wanted my clients to feel like they were getting something truly unique. It’s an approach that requires a deep level of trust because you’re creating something so personal for them. There were moments when I questioned whether I could keep up with the demands, but I realized that staying true to my vision was the only way forward.

Another challenge was building my business model to reflect my values. I’ve always believed in owning the process, which is why I developed a vertical business model. From sketching the designs to sewing the final piece, I oversee every detail. It’s a lot of work, but it ensures that my clients get the best experience and quality. Every decision I make is about maintaining that standard. That’s what keeps me motivated. Building a vertical business model was a natural evolution of my philosophy. I wanted to have complete control over the process, from design to production to client experience, ensuring that every decision aligns with my values and how I contribute to the world. It was about creating a system where every aspect of my brand reflected my values—quality, authenticity, and sustainability. This approach wasn’t easy, but it gave me the freedom to innovate and ensure that my clients receive not just a garment but a full Swaby experience.

I’ve also learned the importance of community. Surrounding myself with people who understand and uplift my vision has been crucial. From the artisans who bring my designs to life to the clients who trust me to tell their stories, it’s a collaborative effort. I want to pave the way for the next generation of Black designers, showing them that it’s possible to succeed without compromising who they are or their vision.

Empowerment is at the core of everything I do. Fashion isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling good. When a woman wears one of my designs, I want her to feel invincible. I’ve also mentored young designers and worked with women’s organizations to support creativity and entrepreneurship.

I’m passionate about helping women realize their potential. Success isn’t just about personal achievements; it’s about lifting others as you climb. My upcoming New York studio is an extension of that philosophy. It’s not just a place to showcase my designs; it’s a space for collaboration, mentorship, and innovation. I want it to be a hub where creative minds can come together to inspire and be inspired.

I’m constantly exploring new ways to push boundaries and tell stories through my designs. Right now, I’m working on a collection that incorporates more sustainable fabrics while staying true to my aesthetic. I’m also planning to expand internationally, bringing the Swaby brand to a global audience. Opening my New York studio is a big step in that direction.

The studio represents a new chapter—a place where I can immerse myself in the vibrancy of one of the world’s fashion capitals. It’s a dream come true, and I’m excited to connect with new clients, collaborate with other designers, and continue creating with purpose and integrity. The heart of my work will never change, but the scope of my impact is growing, and that’s incredibly exciting.