Friday, July 13

Interview with: DeAnna Hodges

DeAnna Hodges is a San Antonio, Texas based fashion designer and creator of Hello Deeva.

La Libertad: Have you always had an interest in fashion?

DeAnna Hodges: Growing up the baby in a large family I was surround by creative people and I was supported in my originality. I have always been interested in the image industry and art of all forms. Never the traditional fashionista, I traded shopping trips and piles of magazines for theater, media productions, and cosmetology to develop my eye.

La Libertad: When did you first start designing? 

DeAnna Hodges: I started designing in high school then continued my training at Painted Pony Clothing internship and Texas Woman’s University where I completed my Bachelors of Arts Degree in Fashion Design.

La Libertad:
When did you start Hello Deeva? 
 

DeAnna Hodges: After graduating, I worked in retail on and off and in 2009 started HelloDeeva.  Also in that year I put on my first solo show and since have slowly work to expand the brand. Being a plus woman myself, I have invested interest in creating stylish custom feminine garments for confident curvy plus women.  Hello Deeva creates custom complete images with sportswear, evening gowns, accessories, and customized heels (RocknDeeva).  Clients are able to start the custom process, purchase samples, and or accessories at www.hellodeeva.com

La Libertad: What inspires you?  

DeAnna Hodges: Art of all forms, anything stylish classic feminine original, and the 70s. In a nutshell most of Hello Deeva is Afro 70s Glam.  Pulling from the 70s, the custom feminine garments are retro with an urban flair ranging from the sparkle of a Disco Queen, earthiness of a Hippie, ethnic pride of forward thinking curvy women, asserting that “Curves Speak Volumes”. 

La Libertad: What do you love most about your work? 

DeAnna Hodges: Creation. Being able to think or dream a design and bring it to life.  Often times I just walk through a fabric store and let the fabric speak to me...I love it!

La Libertad: What is the hardest part of your job?  

DeAnna Hodges: The hardest part is trying to get the clients, family, and friends a like to understand what I do. I am a designer that can sew, drape, pattern make and draw but I'm not a seamstress. I work with clients to create original custom pieces, which at times is a tight rope balance of keeping them satisfied and remaining true to the Hello Deeva brand.  

La Libertad: What are your goals for your career?   

DeAnna Hodges: After recently being re-energized and inspired to keep pursuing my dream as an entrepreneur I'm motivated to make HelloDeeva a household name and reputable business. To do this involves expanding the project to include manufacturer garments , creating brand awareness, web presence, and becoming legally sound. Team HelloDeeva are grateful to be a part of a growing local (San Antonio) artistic community and looking to make a noticeable impact in the fashion industry. You can lend your support by contributing/donating  www.gofundme.com/TeamHelloDeeva
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Interview by Libertad Green

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