My family moved around a lot, so I didn’t grow up anywhere in particular. Always being the new kid in town taught me two things. That fashion is a suit of armor, capable of making you feel empowered in even the lowliest of situations. And that being true to your self is more fulfilling then fitting in.


I went to school at The Fashion Institute of Technology, where I got my Associates Degree in design. I started to pursue my Bachelors there but dropped out mid semester to take a job at J.Crew. Why? Because school will teach you the trade, but it won't teach you the hussle. I spent some time working at J.Crew and Ralph Lauren, learning patternmaking skills from some of the best in the industry. In 2006, I established myself as a textile artist creating sculptural patchworks and in 2011 I officially launched my accessories line, KWILTI.


I make jewelry out of fabric because experimenting with textiles is what I love to do. Because love is the only reason you should ever do anything. My accessories are bold and glamorous, but wearing them won’t prevent you from living an active lifestyle. My line is inspired by the things that are paramount to my happiness – craft, dancing and hip hop, and by the people I admire – i.e. the risk takers, the rejects, and the nails that stick out and can’t be hammered in.