Most college students struggle to find time to study for all of their classes, but MU sophomore Kiarah Moore has found time to create their own fashion line.
“I’ve always had a love for fashion,” Moore said. “It got stronger when I first started out with my line.”
Fashion wasn’t the first thing Kiarah expected to be doing, but it was a natural progression. She found a way to incorporate her business passion with her creative nature in a way that is relevant to the community.
“I was into business,” Moore said. “I thought about what I really loved; I knew I loved business but I thought about my everyday thoughts, like getting ready and putting together outfits.”
Style is a personal thing, but Moore’s line aims to appeal to many kinds of people.
“My goal is to personalize styles that women already wear and create a sophisticated look,” Moore said. “The overall message is about community service and getting the community involved in fashion as well.”
Long-time friend of Kiarah, Matthew Bradley, said he is impressed by Kiarah’s accomplishments.
“I admire her passion and determination when it comes to her clothing line as well as her education and how she manages to hold down a job and still perform at such a high level,” Bradley said.
Moore said she did not expect the fashion industry to be so planned, but she found product development side of fashion interesting.
“I like how structured it is and how you can find out about trends before they come out,” Moore said.
The fashion business is about more than flashy fabrics and changing hemlines, Moore said.
“Clothes can help the women and the other way around,” Moore said regarding how to put fashion to work. “It really depends on the personal goals of the wearer.”
Moore’s work has been displayed in various fashion shows in Chicago, as well as expositions. She has also displayed her work at various vendor booths in different events.
“I’m planning on opening up a store if everything falls into place, getting the community involved, and opening boutiques while completing a PhD and teaching textile courses,” Moore said.
Junior Tiio Watson said Kiarah’s dedication for fashion is noticeable.
“I would say Kiarah is one of the most hardworking and dedicated people I’ve ever seen when it comes to her craft,” Watson said. “She takes her passion very seriously and really takes no days off.”