Interview with Fashion Designer/CEO K. Vaughn

When I meet  K. Vaughn, early this year at New York Fashion Week I encounter his big personality, along with his talent as a Creator Director of K, Vaughn scarves. As you get know him through this interview, will see why he is this weeks feature. 

Tell us about K. Vaughn the man behind the awesome scarves. How did you get started?

At the start of my career, I'd spent a few years in fashion retail. However, the creative side of my life craved more. I began designing women's wear. After a few years, I slowly made the transition to men's wear. However, there was a struggle with both men's and women's wear and I needed more freedom. I found this freedom with scarves. Although this started as a practical decision, I eventually developed a flair for it and found my niche. 

 What was the influence or the motivation behind creating your brand?

 I cannot point to a specific key influence for the K.Vaughn Brand. I have always had a strong passion for apparel...the colors, textures and how fabrics move on an individual. But from a personal perspective, I felt the need to pursue myself and that has been my biggest motivator for my brand. I have been motivated by many people to be the best version of myself and that is reflected in every design that I create.

How do you feel about the representation of how fashion and beauty are being portrayed today?

I think if we have to address the topic of representation, there is still a lot of work to be done and that is sad. However, in an industry where so many ethnicities influence designs and styles, more black models and more black designers are necessary to keep injecting those cultural touches that make fashion fresh. Along with representation, individuals need to have more freedom to wear what makes them happy. 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own business or brand?

The honest advice I would someone who wants to start their own brand is do not do it. But if it is their love, if it is their passion, they will feel compelled to do this. The failure rate, the loss of sleep and a typical life will not be able to deter the person who truly wants to experience this realm of creativity. Building a business or creating a brand is not for a weak or lazy person and anyone entering this arena must be willing to calculate the cost of having their own business. But it is worth it - not always from a financial perspective but from a personal satisfaction perspective. 

 What’s next for K. Vaughn?

 Next March, I will celebrate 25 years as a designer. I have had multiple shows and multiple collections. It has been a long journey and only time will tell what is next for K. Vaughn.

To connect with K. Vaughn  

@K.vaughn_scarves_2018