Meet Chazz Hawks of Cleveland

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chazz Hawks.

Hi Chazz, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m Chazz, a self-taught fashion designer and the founder of House of Chazzly. My journey began from a need to see more representation in the fashion industry, especially for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and those from diverse backgrounds. I’ve always believed fashion should be for everyone, which is why my collections showcase people of all shapes, sizes, and genders. I want my designs to reflect the beauty and diversity of humanity, and to empower people to feel confident in their own skin.

My inspiration to pursue fashion came from watching FriskMeGood on TV. Seeing someone from Cleveland make it in the fashion world sparked a fire in me, and I realized this was what I wanted to do. It wasn’t just about clothing; it was about creating a platform where people could express themselves freely. I began creating my own fashion shows, focused on inclusion and sustainability, with upcycling as a core principle of my brand. I take pride in transforming existing materials into something new, reducing waste, and making fashion more sustainable.

Along the way, I’ve partnered with Haus of Transcendent, working on fashion shows that also address important community issues like affordable housing, STD testing, and financial literacy. These initiatives are important to me, as they help create a space where fashion serves as a tool for positive change.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to headline Summerfest 2025, where I’ll be showcasing my summer collection right before Pride. It’s a pivotal moment for me to continue expanding my vision and to celebrate the power of inclusive fashion.

From humble beginnings to where I am now, my journey has been driven by a desire to turn heads, make a difference, and create a community where everyone can feel seen and celebrated.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road hasn’t always been smooth. As a self-taught designer, I didn’t have the luxury of formal training or a strong network to lean on at the start. I had to figure out things on my own, from building a collection to organizing my own fashion shows. That often meant long nights, countless trial and error, and a lot of self-doubt.

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is finding resources to bring my ideas to life. Whether it’s securing funding for my shows or finding sustainable materials, the lack of financial backing has been a constant struggle. But that’s where upcycling became a game-changer. It allowed me to create beautiful, sustainable pieces without needing to rely on traditional fabric sourcing, which helped reduce costs and environmental impact.

Another obstacle has been balancing my passion for fashion with the business side of things. Running a brand while ensuring that my shows and collaborations are impactful has required a lot of time management and adaptability. Sometimes, it’s hard to juggle it all, especially when things don’t go as planned. But every challenge has taught me valuable lessons that I now carry with me.

Lastly, as a queer Black designer, I’ve had to navigate spaces that weren’t always welcoming or supportive. But instead of letting that discourage me, it fueled my determination to create a space for other underrepresented voices in fashion.

Despite these hurdles, each obstacle has helped shape me and my work, and I’m grateful for the lessons they’ve brought. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding, and I’m just getting started.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At House of Chazzly, I specialize in creating inclusive, sustainable fashion. My designs celebrate all bodies, all shapes, all sizes, and all genders. Fashion, to me, is a form of self-expression, and I want everyone to feel seen and confident in what they wear. My collections are known for their bold, eye-catching designs and their focus on upcycling. I take discarded materials and transform them into something new, ensuring that my work not only tells a story but also makes a positive impact on the environment. Upcycling is at the heart of what I do, and it’s one of the things that sets me apart from others in the industry.

What I’m most proud of is the community that has grown around House of Chazzly. I’m not just designing clothes; I’m creating a platform where people feel represented and celebrated. Whether it’s through my fashion shows or my collaborations with Haus of Transcendent, I strive to create an inclusive space for everyone, especially those in marginalized communities. The feedback from my clients and the people who attend my shows – seeing them embrace who they are and feel empowered – is the greatest accomplishment I could ask for.

What sets me apart is my focus on diversity and sustainability. In a world that often values mass production over individuality, I’m committed to offering something different. I design for people who may feel overlooked by the mainstream fashion industry, and I do so with a commitment to reducing waste and making a positive impact.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most about Cleveland is the sense of community and the deep-rooted creativity that thrives here. There’s a real sense of local pride, and as a designer, I find inspiration in the people, the culture, and the history of this city. Cleveland has an incredible arts scene, and the diversity of its people allows for unique and inclusive events, which is something I strive to showcase in my fashion. There’s also a strong sense of resilience here, and that’s something I really connect with in my own journey.

However, most places in Cleveland that showcase fashion have a high financial barrier, similar to what you’d see in New York City. The prices are often so high that it’s not inviting for many designers, especially those from marginalized communities. It’s not about being chosen to participate, but about the costs involved, which make it difficult for designers who can’t afford to take part. This limits the opportunities for diverse voices to be showcased and recognized. That’s something I’m passionate about changing through my own work, creating more accessible spaces for designers.

Pricing:

• Contact via email
• Contact via Instagram
• SummerFest 2025 general -$20
• SummerFest 2025 VIP- $50

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/houseofchazzly and www.instagram.com/chazzhawks