Today we’d like to introduce you to Sinnamon Thomas.
Sinnamon, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
You know, we all have a dream – something that when fulfilled is affirming of our purpose, encompassing of our truth & brings real happiness. I’m currently living out part of my childhood dreams, and I make sure to stay present and grateful daily. Originally a native of Northeast Portland, Oregon, I relocated to Los Angeles when I graduated high school in 2013. I was 18, with vision and faith in myself. Designing clothing was always a dream to me, it appeared glamourous – the artist in music videos and runway carpets.
My upbringing was full of freedom to learn, so my interest in expressing myself artistically has remained consistent. I was an avid student throughout school, exploring more activities while making sure I was dressed well and stylish. I spent my free time mostly in a dance studio – as a performing arts Jefferson Dancer where I learned seven styles of dance. My love for reading and writing gave me the opportunity to be the editor of my school’s literary magazine. I was also a part of National Honor Society, Self Enhancement Inc, Rose Festival, Health Sciences & Bio-Tech programs and more. I’ve always been a hard worker, good at multiple things, and recognized for my intellect and ambition.
At 16, I had the opportunity to be a part of a Nike Product Creation Experience mentorship. Nike headquarters is just outside of Portland, so I connected with professionals who worked in design there. Under their direction, I gained knowledge of brand creation and campaigning while designing for an NFL player as the muse. That closed out my junior year and we all took a trip out to NYC, where I gained the exposure I needed with a visit to Parsons NYC Fashion Design school.
And that’s really how it all started. I spent my senior year grinding, and I moved to LA in 2013, then I began to set my foundation. I attended Otis College of Art & Design for formal training and obtained a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts Fashion Design in 2017. College gave me the physical tools to be a designer; how to sketch, sew, work with my hands, and illustrate and convey ideas accurately. Post-graduation, I worked professionally, growing into a technical designer through my experience with multiple denim brands for three years. Then I learned quite a bit about the business of fashion. My focus then was designing hard and soft denim styles. I quickly gained exposure to managing from the design level; overseas production, factory communication, margins, trade show prep and things of the like. My journey of being an entrepreneur and independent designer began in August 2020. All I could hear in my head was “the time is now to move in purpose, on purpose”, “this time has been freed up for you”, “do it”. I just couldn’t let this time of my life pass me up, I knew it was about something bigger than me and anything lost. I’m a manifestor and I generate in the physical, so I asked for the change and I took action at first chance. And here I am, truly blessed making connections through my passion.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road but I’ve discovered that’s the beauty of it. It’s not supposed to be smooth; it comes with potholes, cracks and construction. You just have to commit to a direction. Anyone who thinks they know everything knows very little because this life is all one big experience that we are not specialized in, but you have to be aware of how you’re deciding to live it. So I decided to take the risk for the reward. I’ve had times of failure, but it gave knowledge otherwise to strategize better. The first year of putting my ideas and work out there was the toughest for me. “Is this worth my time”, especially in the pandemic. But I made a plan.
However, personally my biggest obstacle is the sacrifice I make on time away from my family. That’s a very real truth for me. I look up and time is lapsing. Right now, it’s more difficult than ever because this time of my life requires more of me. It can feel like I am missing out or feeling selfish in a weird way. I basically started my life over from scratch here, knowing no one and nothing about the city. LA has been home nine years now, but the last two has been different. I’ll admit I’ve definitely gotten pass the hard part.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in confidence-building through luxury custom and tailored design for women who dare to show up as their divine authentic selves, affirming of who they are in the present. Many of my clients come to me to celebrate who they are, where they are in life. I design and handmake gowns, dresses and costumes for special occasions. Thus far, I’ve connected with women to bring their ideas to life for birthdays, wedding events & bridal, prom, photoshoots, baby showers and more. As their personal designer, we create a feminine designs that allow them to show up unapologetically, 100% at their discretion, with their measurements and reflecting of them and the message they need to say! They allow me full creative freedom, in which my style is more romantic and sensual but I like to do a lot of handwork and draping on beautiful materials. I am open to all ideas and events, but I often work with silk, tulle, velvet, appliques, sequins, rhinestones; catering to the client as necessary. I also like to create smaller ready-to-wear collections in limited amounts.
I am most proud of the fact that I started and never quit. Its changed my life. My clients trust me and as my clientele grows, it encourages me to remain authentic and remain present with showing up. They trust me to serve them well and I’ve been able to build some amazing connections. Many of my clients have been from out of state, even as far as the east coast and we achieve our goal through consultation and virtually. I’m also proud that I’m able to be multifaceted in this work. Not only as just a designer, patternmaker and seamstress, I’ve been able to also capitalize on my graphic design and brand design skills, editing and other things. Nothing is mundane and no two days or styles are the same!
My brand is focused on designing more than clothing, I design feelings and affirmations for the individual wearing them. They know that when they put garments on with Sinnamon’ Label tagged on it, it’s been made consciously and always greater than promised. I always want my clients to feel they are confidently embracing themselves and who they are which is why I am so passionate about providing great service and not just an item. My brand serves on a more intimate and personal level.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Don’t put your dreams in the hands of others. Having discernment is key to following your passion and purpose. You have to keep showing up, remain steady and committed regardless of outside forces. “They” are always watching, especially when you are authentic in what you do and who you are so continue to believe in yourself. I’ve also learned it’s key to stay encouraged and passionate but take breaks too. As a creative person, my logical side balances it out. My brain runs a mile a minute some days, so I love that the beach is so accessible here; it’s a go-to break for me.
Pricing:
- Bridal / Prom – Start at $700
- Dresses / Gowns – Start at $275
- Costumes – Start at $210
- RTW Dresses – $60-$120
- Custom Bag / Purse – Start at $35
Contact Info:
- Website: shopsinnamon.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/sinnamonbysna, Instagram.com/sosinna
Image Credits
@57nico
