DESIGNERS TO KNOW: TANI RICHES
TANI RICHES
Based in Toronto, Tani Riches is a multidimensional creative powerhouse who models, styles, and creative directs for her very own TANIBYTANI clothing line. Heavily influenced by the y2k and 90s era, her captivating nostalgic aesthetic executed with modern flair is commanding attention. Tani is using her platform and brand to bring playfulness back into fashion and empower independent creatives.
SHEER: Tell us a little bit about yourself and where you're from.
TANI BARNES: My name is Tani. I'm from and based in Toronto, Canada. I'd describe myself as a multidimensional creative who also freelance models, creative directs and loves the 90's and 2000's hip hop era.
SHEER: What ultimately sparked your interest in becoming a fashion designer?
TB: I've always had a passion for clothing growing up, I would reconstruct my Barbie’s clothing and draw designs on fashion croquis. The show That's So Raven was really a big inspiration for me since the protagonist would always rock her own designs. Plus certain things I didn't see I would figure out how to make it on my own. Taking sewing classes and learning more about fashion techniques, pattern making, and textiles helped with the overall aspect of what I create.
SHEER: As both a fashion designer and a model, how do those worlds intersect to help your creative process and to draw inspiration?
TB: As a model and fashion designer it definitely helps mesh ideas together when I'm in the process of creating a moodboard for a shoot. On some occasions, I may create a design that I feel will be perfect for a certain shoot and/or have an idea for a photoshoot where there might be emphasis on colors, which can help tie into the shoot. It works well together. Since I can model my own designs I kind of have an advantage over the creative process by knowing how I want to pose and create emphasis on how I want the garment to be portrayed.
SHEER: How has the y2k era influenced your aesthetic?
TB: The y2k aesthetic has a great influence on my personal aesthetic. It has inspired certain pieces I have in my wardrobe like my demonia knee high platform buckle boots and printed mesh tops, but also how I want certain photoshoots I'm involved in to have that same type of feel. Everything from the platform boots, metallic makeup looks and clothing pieces, wide set pants, unique technology products and more. When I think of the y2k era I instantly think of TLC, Aaliyah and the girl group Blaque.
SHEER: Your cow print bra design is so iconic and growing a wide fan base. When did you first concept this piece and how did the idea take off?
TB: Thank you so much! I thought of the cow print bra back in spring 2019 where I first sketched it, came up with a cute makeup look to match it and made a sample. I then posted the look, people loved it so I decided to prototype it so that it would be better. Then I made samples for bigger sizes so that it wasn't just one size. I posted it on my website and the rest is history!
SHEER: Recent news broke out that one of your designs was copied by FashionNova. What advice do you have for young and under-represented designers when their ideas are stolen by dishonest corporations?
TB: As an entrepreneur, small business owner or etc make sure that you trademark your logo and name. If it’s a very unique design make sure to copyright it beforehand or make a design patent so that you are protected from getting your designs copied or stolen before you publish it publically on your website. If your design is copied (God forbid!) It's a bit tricky to sue right away cause clothing isn't really covered legally, but your design sketches, customers wearing your products and dates help a lot. Securing a lawyer on your side to help with business aspects, advice, and registration is important as well.
SHEER: What are the biggest challenges you face as a black business owner in the fashion industry? How do you encourage other black women to overcome such challenges as they arise?
TB: Not being taken seriously and being overlooked. There's a certain stigma towards black businesses for instance that there's bad customer service. My advice for other black women business owners and entrepreneurs is to plan and organize everything whether it's your orders, products, quantity, shipping, etc. There will be slow days and other days you might get tons of orders. Never let certain product drops or not getting enough recognition as desired get to you; it's apart of the journey. Keep going. The consistency and hard work will pay off, even if you don't see it immediately. Delegate tasks. I know a lot of the time we want to learn and do everything ourselves but that can be taxing on your mental and physical health in the long run. Don't be afraid to ask for help or get an assistant to help you pack orders or have someone help with content. Pay attention to what your customers want but don't let it 100% dictate your creative process and communication is key.
“The show That’s So Raven was really a big inspiration for me since the protagonist would always rock her own designs. Plus certain things I didn’t see I would figure out how to make it on my own. Taking sewing classes and learning more about fashion techniques, pattern making, and textiles helped with the overall aspect of what I create.”
SHEER: How do you stay mentally/spiritually grounded as you navigate your creative journey?
TB: Taking breaks is very necessary. If you're doing a whole day of work take at least three breaks that day, even a week off after completing things for your business is calming. I do yoga daily at least 10- 30 mins. Exercising and dancing every other day to get the blood flowing, releases endorphins and releases any tension. Staying hydrated, balanced meals with some fruit on the side. Praying, journaling and moments of stillness to reflect on my emotions, what the day brought and thanking God for protecting me, leading me and bringing me to new levels of growth.
SHEER: What do you hope will be your brand's lasting legacy as it continues to grow?
TB: To empower and spread love. My brand is all about feeling good and comfortable with a touch of playfulness so I want to continue that and bring it to new heights.
FOLLOW & SUPPORT TANI RICHES BELOW
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FOLLOW & SUPPORT TANI RICHES BELOW 〰️
By Tiara Starks
Zhané Aliya is a content creator based in the Nashville bringing her own flair to the fashion, lifestyle, and DIY beauty content niches while speaking in-depth about her experiences as a Black creator navigating the platform’s ever-changing algorithm.