College Student Inspires Others With His Clothing Line | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

College Student Inspires Others With His Clothing Line

38
College Student Inspires Others With His Clothing Line
Instagram @rashaadh


Rashaad Holley is not your typical college student. While most students are studying for upcoming exams, Rashaad is creating dope clothing. Rashaad's clothing line Vingt-Cinq, has been featured in numerous fashion shows. Recently he was featured in Buffalo State's Runway 10th annual fashion show, and won "Best of Show" and "Best Student Collection". Rashaad is the definition of a boss and he shows it through his work.

What inspired you to create your line Vingt-Cinq?

My designs are inspired by urban culture, and my own love for clothing. Being very new to designing, I have the luxury of making garments that I like personally. Vingt-Cinq means 25 in French. I remembered the Kanye West lyric "I wasn't supposed to make it past 25, guess what, I'm still alive" while in class one day, and that number just stuck with me. When I finally began to develop my brand, I think I wanted to utilize a name that could be motivational for people like me. Sort of like an underlying meaning that people could be proud of. So instead of the age of 25 being a cut off age for us, or an expiration date, I wanted us to look at it in a different light, like the lyric. I got out of street wear in early fall of 2015, after a disagreement about business. In the relationship I was the business guy, and one of my old partners really tried to throw that in my face like I was unable to create. So I started to create..

What sets your clothing line apart from others?

I think my message is a rare one. I want to perpetuate positivity and love through my clothes. I think I've become better at designing, but my message is one that I've had since the beginning, and I pray that never changes. I really want people to have a personal connection if I ever have the honor of putting them in one of my garments. That's not something that's easy since I'm not using kente or a flag's colors. But that's the type of connection I chase. And I do that with my faith, my positive attitude, my passion, and the energy I put into the world.

How do you create your clothes?

So many different ways. I've been developing certain designs since I started. I kind of just keep revamping, improving, and building. Now I have access to trend reports also so I'm attempting to get used to using those as well. I took a real liking to fashion illustration last semester studying under Professor Alexandra Eagen. She has been such a contributor to my growth, I honestly don't know where I would be without her. Hopefully I can get nice at computer aided design soon, I'm trying. Just want to be the total package!

How is it for you juggling a clothing line and school?

It's pretty difficult. I actually quit my job a couple weeks ago. It was something long overdue because I was hurting creatively. But god opened a door for me to not only be in Runway, but also with a position on campus where I could grow along side my classmates. I think school contributes so much to my dreams that I don't look at it as a burden, I love being here. My designing is just something I'm able to do because of that now. I'm like a professional student for the time being. Much like I was doing in business school. I'm able to utilize what I do in the classroom in real life. As I grow scholastically, I grow with my venture. It's cool.

What is a goal of yours for your clothing line?

I just want to continue to grow and work hard. I learned so much about the industry this semester and was amazed at the potential that is there for me and my classmates. I can see myself doing so much that I don't want to potentially limit myself. As I continue to learn more, I have faith that everything will fall into place for me. Professor Habes told us the first day of class that we have to work hard, and that's all I want to do.

Did you have anyone help or support you throughout your journey with your clothing line?

Plenty! I actually give all praises to everyone who has played a role in my growth. I thank god for them every day. I have a strong core of friends. Being so busy I don't get to talk to them like I used to, but since they're my real friends I know that they're always there. They don't make it to every show, they don't buy everything, but I love them. They were here before it all, and they'll always be. Also, all of the models I use, they're amazing. They stick around and I love them. I don't think I've ever worked with a model I can't call right now. They become friends too. They're such an inspiration to me.

What is your advice for students who want to create their own business while in school?

Take it seriously! The resources and help are all around you. Don't half step with anything, because it could pay off for you. Preparation is the biggest step too. That's something a lot of us don;t understand. You have to prepare yourself well. Spend the most time preparing, don't let the anxiousness nights get to you. Prepare!

You can find his clothing designs on his Instagram @vingtcinqrashaad and his website. http://VingtCinqRashaad.com

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Adulting

18 Things I Want To Do Now That I'm 18

I'm technically an adult, so I'm legally required to live a little, right?

913
Happy Birthday Cake

For the entirety of my high school career, I was always seen as the goody-two-shoes. I never got in trouble with a teacher, I kept stellar grades, and when I wasn't doing extracurricular activities, I was at home studying. Even when I did go out, it was usually with a bunch of fellow band geeks. The night would end before 11:00 PM and the only controversial activity would be a fight based on who unfairly won a round of Apples-to-Apples when someone else clearly had a better card (I promise I'm not still holding a grudge).

Now that I'm officially an adult, I want to pursue some new things. I want to experience life in a way that I never allowed myself to do prior to entering college. These are the years that I'm supposed to embark on a journey of self-discovery, so what better way to do that than to create a bucket list?

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

10 Life Lessons from Christmas Classics

The holiday classics that shaped my life

552
10 Life Lessons from Christmas Classics
Flickr

The holiday season is full of stress, debt, and forced conversation. While we rush through the month of December, it's important to take a step back and enjoy the moments before they're gone. Most families love to watch Christmas movies, but these beloved films provide more than entertainment. Here are 10 life lessons that I've learned from the holiday classics we watch every year.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

15 Mind-Bending Riddles

Hopefully they will make you laugh.

199638
 Ilistrated image of the planet and images of questions
StableDiffusion

I've been super busy lately with school work, studying, etc. Besides the fact that I do nothing but AP chemistry and AP economics, I constantly think of stupid questions that are almost impossible to answer. So, maybe you could answer them for me, and if not then we can both wonder what the answers to these 15 questions could be.

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

Most Epic Aurora Borealis Photos: October 2024

As if May wasn't enough, a truly spectacular Northern Lights show lit up the sky on Oct. 10, 2024

20538
stunning aurora borealis display over a forest of trees and lake
StableDiffusion

From sea to shining sea, the United States was uniquely positioned for an incredible Aurora Borealis display on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, going into Friday, Oct. 11.

It was the second time this year after an historic geomagnetic storm in May 2024. Those Northern Lights were visible in Europe and North America, just like this latest rendition.

Keep Reading...Show less
 silhouette of a woman on the beach at sunrise
StableDiffusion

Content warning: This article contains descriptions of suicide/suicidal thoughts.

When you are feeling down, please know that there are many reasons to keep living.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments