Young, talented and local designers are bringing inspiration, creativity and a unique viewpoint to style. With their eyes on breaking out, they’re bringing new blood to the fashion world. Special thanks to Creative Hub Worcester – an unique non-profit organization dedicated to building a thriving arts community space in Worcester. Photography by Justin Mayotte.

Designer: Yanell Galva
Brand: Yanell Galva
Website: YanellGalva.com

Age: 27
Town: Lawrence
Company Location: Lawrence

How did you start designing? I started designing at a very young age, sketching by the age of 13, when I was in eighth grade, and even designed my prom dress. By the age of 19, I taught myself how to sew. I wanted to have unique pieces on wherever I would go and never liked having the same outfit as the girl next to me.  I kept doing it as a hobby until 2012, when I did my first show. After my first show was when I realized that’s what I wanted to do the rest of my life. The feeling I had that day on the runway, when I was thanking people for coming, it was indescribable. Everything else is history. I’ve done shows all over Massachusetts, local shows and even shows at colleges, including Bentley College. I have also done shows in Providence, Connecticut and New York multiple times. I am looking forward to continuing to expand my showcases with God’s willingness.

Describe your designs. Colors and prints such as florals are a signature principal to the clothing line. My designs are for anyone who wants to feel beautiful, young and fresh. My main clientele are females from 5-10 and 18-40 and males 25-35. I’m trying to have my name be known and be worn on the red carpet. I’m trying to be one of the most successful Latina fashion designers in the world. Once I reach a certain level, I will help the up-and-comers and give back to those in need, starting with my country, the Dominican Republic.

What makes your brand unique? Yanell Galva Collection is a clothing brand with a lot of edge and sweetness in one. This clothing brand brings out a versatile aspect. It projects different styles, from hipster to classical looks. Variance and verge is what puts this line together in a unique way.

What inspires you? My inspiration thrives off of nature’s natural beauty, as well as music such as soul jazz like Al Green, Etta Jones, Nina Simone,  ’90s hip hop and R&B, Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu and Michael Jackson, to name a few. Also, people’s energy and style inspires my creativity.

What do you see in your future? In the future, I see many wishes being manifested by God. A few of them are: being part of the NYFW every year next to legendary and inspiring designers; celebrities and average Americans wearing my clothing line; having multiple business lines – a warehouse, design room and showroom; and being able to provide my family a better life.

“Passion and consistency is the key – it will take you places and to meet people you thought you would never meet. What’s a dream without love and passion? It is like a car without an engine; it can’t run. So if you’re using your creative talent for the money and not because you’re passionate about it, believe me when I tell you it will not bloom. Momentary money or fame can only go so far; the moment you don’t see money coming in, that’s when you’ll give up. But if you have love and passion for what you do, no matter how hard it may get, your love and passion will be your strength to keep pushing forward, as well as your faith in God, because without him, nothing is possible. Stay humble to yourself and others. Don’t let your level of success change who you are, where you came from and how you started.”