Today we’d like to introduce you to Janasia Kantrel.
Janasia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hello, my name is Janasia K. I am a 21 year old newfound custom clothing designer. I initially started sewing at 9 years old. Fashion always caught my eye, I would style and dress my Barbies and even design clothes for my baby dolls, but it was never something I took seriously. It was just a fun hobby. More than anything, I wanted to be of service to others, though I did not quite understand what that would look like for me.
At first, I thought my calling was in medicine. I went into undergrad as a psychology major, planning to become a Physician Assistant. But God had other plans. While I was focused on my studies, my side hustle of altering and creating custom pieces started to gain momentum. I made one dress, and the feedback was beyond anything I expected. That moment changed everything.
I decided to fully commit to custom clothing design, turning my passion into something real. Now, I have a legal business and a dedicated space to bring my designs to life. When I think back to my younger self, the little girl who sewed just for fun, I know she would be in awe of what I have built for us. And this is just the beginning.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
One of the biggest challenges I have faced is my lack of professional experience since I am completely self-taught. There are still techniques I have not learned, which makes it difficult to execute certain designs. Because of this, I sometimes have to turn down client requests that are beyond my current skill set. Finances have also been a major hurdle. As a full-time undergraduate student and part-time worker, money is constantly being allocated to different expenses, making it difficult to invest in my business. In the beginning, turning a profit was especially hard, as every dollar I made often had to go right back into materials, equipment, or other necessities.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My business, Custom Nae’d, is all about bringing unique, high-quality custom clothing to life. I specialize in creating custom garments that reflect my clients’ personal style, whether through original designs, alterations, or upcycling existing pieces. What sets me apart is my dedication to craftsmanship and my ability to turn a client’s vision into reality, even without formal training. Every piece I create is made with intention, ensuring that each client feels confident and special in what they wear.
One of the things I am most proud of is my brand’s identity. My business name, Custom Nae’d, is simple, yet creative and one of a kind, just like the pieces I create. The same creativity went into naming my services and video segments, each carefully chosen to reflect the artistry and personality behind my brand. From my upcycling service, ReNAED, to my Sew Much to Say series and other upcoming projects, every name represents a part of my journey and what I bring to the fashion world.
Custom Nae’d is more than just a clothing brand; it is a space where people can express themselves through fashion without limits. I also offer services like alterations, one-on-one sewing classes, and my upcycling service, ReNAED, which gives new life to old garments.
I want readers to know that Custom Nae’d is built on passion, creativity, and the belief that fashion should be both personal and well-made. Whether you are looking for a completely custom piece, alterations, or a way to revive your wardrobe through upcycling, my brand is here to make it happen.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I would not be where I am today without the incredible support system that surrounds me. My family has been my number one source of encouragement, especially my mom, Janice, my sister, Jaelin. They have been there through every step of my journey, always pushing me to keep going.
My boyfriend has been unbelievably supportive, not only understanding the demands of my business but also taking pride in my work and constantly showing it off. My best friends, Nadiah, Bacarri, Taylor, and Zakiyah have been my biggest cheerleaders, as well as my little sister Briana, always believing in me even when I doubted myself.
I am also grateful for my muses and brand ambassadors, Kailei and Rama, who have helped bring my designs to life and share my vision with the world. Beyond them, there are so many more people who have played a role in my growth. They have all shown me what it truly means to have a village that loves, supports, and continuously uplifts me, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.customnaedco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/customnaed.co?igsh=MWx3dHQwZWU4ZDFzNA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
