Check Out Nkechi Okonkwo’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nkechi Okonkwo.

Hi Nkechi, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and raised in Los Angeles, specifically Palos Verdes. I always had an interest in the arts whether it was dancing, painting, or altering clothes. At the age of 17, a good friend of mine suggested I take a fashion design course at an occupational center that was partnered with my high school. I took the course for one summer and one full semester. I spent three years after that teaching myself different sewing techniques. In 2014, I did my first fashion show with the intention of putting out a collection while I was in school full time and working at my dad’s dental office full time. By the end of 2015, I decided I was done doing fashion shows and spent quite a bit of time trying to find myself. Now in 2021, I am basically starting over. I am launching my website this month, Mercy by Nk. My main goal is sales; get my product out there so I can get the feedback necessary to improve my business. I also co-own a non-profit organization called the Paper Balloon Project focused on self-love through fitness, mental health, nutrition, and more.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Growing up in a Nigerian family, you find yourself being pulled in other directions like medicine, law, or engineering. I actually spent four years taking additional courses to become a dentist followed by two years working for my parents as an office & financial manager. I thought each of those things would make my parents happy, but in reality I was miserable and only felt pulled further from who I wanted to be. All of this contributed to my generalized anxiety and depression. As crazy as it was, 2020 was the year I became more of myself than ever. I stopped trying to make the people around me happy and shifted my focus to myself. I learned that by pursuing my own dreams, I can open myself up to other opportunities tied to my passion. And when I am in a great place mentally, I can effectively help other people.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a women’s fashion designer. In the past, I’ve mostly used Ankara material which is African wax print fabric. I am known for creating high waisted pants that fit tall women with curves. I am most proud of the way woman who have worn my clothes feel comfortable, happy, sexy, and fun in them. I’ve been told what sets me apart is my authenticity. I enjoy making my clothes myself, but at some point a designer needs help. I think what sets me apart is how I view the world. I tend to see each piece as a character in a musical or movie. I ask myself how many different things can this character do in that outfit and what parts of that outfit can transition into another look.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
1. Plans change. Period. 2. You can’t choose your family, but you can set boundaries for them 3. Good friends are hard to come by so foster those relationships NOW. 4. People won’t respect you just because you’re nice to them. 5. Being anxious means you’re worrying about things that haven’t even happened. Stop it. 6. Tell people about themselves. No one is perfect and sometimes people need to be reminded to wash their hands. 7. Own your body by holding yourself accountable for what you do to it. 8. Check on your loved ones often. 9. Life is too precious to run from love. Open up your heart to someone who deserves you. 10. EVERYONE NEEDS THERAPY.

Pricing:

• Custom Sewing: $30 per hour

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.mercybynk.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/mercybynk

Image Credits
Nick Woods, Peter Nylund, and Mark Williams.