Meet Anasa Greaves

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anasa Greaves.

Anasa, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Well my mother, brother, and I lived in a small basement apartment at my aunt’s house. Everyday I would race upstairs to play in her chaotic mess of fabric scraps, make my doll clothes and watch her as she sewed, intrigued by the idea of creating clothing from flat pieces of fabric knowing one day I would make clothing too. As I got older I expressed my creativity through styling my own outfits and standing out from everyone else. When it was time for me to apply for colleges my first choice was a school that focused on fashion design. However, coming from a traditional Caribbean family the arts wasn’t an option so I majored in nursing, following my mother’s footsteps. It was at a small two year college that I grew into my own and finally took the initiative to pursue design and enrolled in the Academy of Art’s Fashion Design program in San Francisco. After graduating I had my first fashion show at Lincoln Center during NYFW a collaborative project between a group of BFA graduates. After a few years of professional interning, corporate and freelance jobs I finally decided to start my own Womenswear Brand, Unisa Eurani.

Has it been a smooth road?
It’s definitely been challenging. As an emerging designer there’s so much you worry about, your designs being stolen which happens regardless, building brand awareness, and gaining revenue. But my biggest obstacle I’ve overcome is self doubt. I can’t stress how important it is to believe in yourself, as cliché as that may sound it’s necessary to be your biggest cheerleader. My nights generally consist of me in my studio working until 5 am and it’s not the lack of sleep that bothers me but the wondering whether or not I’m good enough, or will it get easier, or is it worth it. And in those moments I turn to God gather my thoughts, refocus and tell myself ” I got this”.

We’d love to hear more about your company.
My company, Unisa Eurani is a womenswear brand that focuses on bold shapes, and classic silhouettes while incorporating street style. I specialize in oversized androgynous jackets, feminine dresses, structured pants and custom basics. One thing I pride myself on is quality and attention to detail. I pay close attention to every aspect of production especially the finishing which is one of the most beautiful aspects of a garment. I do my best to stay true to my brand and stick to my vision.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I’m not a resident of California but when I lived there, there was a great sense of community and resources, and I think it would be a great place to start a brand, especially as an emerging designer.

Pricing:

• Jackets range from $189- $389
• Basics $49- $59
• Dresses $119-$260
• Pants $159-$198

Contact Info:

• Address: 119-38 200th street
  Saint Albans, NY 11412
• Website: unisaeurani.co
• Phone: 516-729-8577
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @unisa_eurani
• Facebook: Unisa Eurani by Anasa Greaves

Image Credit:
Photographer: Anasa Greaves

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