Name: Tosha Clemens (pictured above with her husband Joe)
Major/Grad Year: Merchandise Product Development 2006
Campus: Los Angeles
Hometown: Livingston, Tennessee
Job Title: Owner/Designer, LaBosh
How did you start your company? After graduating FIDM, I started working for Bebe doing Production/Product Development for handbags. That is where my love for handbags began. From there I went on to work for Frederick’s of Hollywood as the Textiles Manager. After learning about Product Development and Textiles I decided to bring my two passions together and start LaBosh Handbags. I knew I always wanted to have my own company, but I wanted to get experience in the field, network, and learn from others.
What are the things you like most about your career? The thing I love the most about my career is being creative. Being able to bring an idea or concept to reality is very exciting and rewarding!
How did you find out about FIDM and what made it right for you? I found out about FIDM from the website. I started researching the top fashion schools in the United States and FIDM popped up. I called right away and spoke with an Admissions Advisor. He encouraged me to come out to LA and visit the campus. I knew it was the right school for me because the success of all the Alumni was very impressive to me. FIDM’s Instructors and Advisors really take their time to develop and equip their students with everything they need for the market field. I felt FIDM would help me succeed in anything I put my mind to.
How did you choose your major? I chose Merchandise Product Development because I felt it was important to know and understand all areas of the business. Especially since I knew I wanted to start my own company. Within the degree you learn about design, product creation from start to finish, marketing, and merchandising. I feel this major really set me up for success.
What are some of your top sources of inspiration? I get inspired by color, textiles, and art. I try to keep an open mind because you never know what you might see that will catch your attention for a new design!
What is a typical day like? When you have your own business your work day can be unpredictable. It also depends on what part of the design and production process you are on. I spend a lot of time online doing research, contacting boutiques who are interested in carrying LaBosh, and also communicating with the factories.
What are some of your greatest accomplishments? I have had a lot of great accomplishments over my lifetime so far. I started modeling before I was able to even walk. I was signed by Ford Models in New York by the time I was eight years-old. I also had the great experience of being Calvin Klein's fit model when I was 10 years-old. I was able to see behind the scenes of fashion and fell in love with it. After being apart of so many fashion shows, I decided I wanted to go to school to pursue fashion as a career! My greatest and most exciting accomplishment right now is being able to start this company with my husband, Joe Clemens, and being able to have something that gives back to the community by the charities that we support!
What was your favorite thing about attending FIDM?
My favorite thing about attending FIDMis the great connections I have made. The Advisors and Instructors have been and continue to have a huge impact on my career. I am very thankful for the knowledge I have about the fashion industry and owe a lot of that to FIDM.
What are some of your goals for the future?
The goals I have for the future are to be able to reach young women and inspire them in all areas of their lives. LaBosh Handbags are a way for them to express themselves, but also be able to support great causes. The main reason LaBosh Handbags was created is to be able to support and spread the word about the non-profit organizations that we are so passionate about. We hope to expand the brand in other accessories and offer women products that will inspire and encourage them in their personal lives as well as their careers. When a handbag is purchased a percentage goes to the charities that we support.
What are some hot trends on the horizon in accessories?
Be on the lookout for contrasting colors mixed with unique textures and bold hardware. -- Victoria
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