Different by Design

Different by Design.....Runway Life

2011-10-02T22:32:00.000-07:00

As fashion week quickly approached I made the decision to switch gears and do something a little different.
Though I love nothing more than the mere smell of fashion in the air as New York City comes to life with designers, bloggers, models and fashionistas from all over the world, I set out this season at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week and instead headed out to Boston.
Boston?? Yes, Boston has fashion week. This season meant a lot me on a personal level. It was simply divine now that I look back. In the past year God has opened doors and closed some, allowing me to see the ones that were really standing in my corner to see me succeed as well as pruned a few weeds. With nothing but faith that God would give me the strength to do all things, I pulled together my entire spring season. Strenuous? Without a doubt but that also fueled my creativity for this line.
Romás spring/summer 2012 was inspired by the ultimate tropical vacation. (Note to self- schedule that!) I created this collection under the influence of the tropical islands of Barbados and the vibrant color schemes from the island. I could totally envision myself relaxing on the beach, having fun, and looking fashionable as I did it! The line had to have something chic and classic for every occasion that could possibly arise while on vacation. It's simple sophistication. I hope that you like what I came up with.
On September 24, 2011 Romàs by Linda Rowe Thomas Spring/Summer 2012 themed "White Noise" debuted to a full house at the Cyclorama Art Center in Boston. As the soundtrack, cleverly cued by the sound of white noise began, I danced in placed just a bit. The all-white collection with just a splash of color; oranges and a hint of blues took it's moment in the night. Eleven beautiful ladies, with the gift of quick changes, gracefully brought months of hard work to life. Important side note: thanks Jason Nelson for always putting my tracks together and kudos to the hair and makeup teams!!
The show was over in a flash, as it always is and I timidly took my finale walk. I must admit, that's my least favorite part. I'm such a behind the scenes girl, but I do so appreciate seeing the faces that support me!!!
So what’s next? My annual fashion show/fundraiser for the young burn survivors of Camp Sunshine and Arkansas Children's Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas... and then it's on to the next one!

See you soon New York, I'll definitely be back!
Fashionably yours,
Linda

Different by Design......Down to Business

2011-07-20T22:07:00.000-07:00

Over the past few months my inbox has been filled with inquiries from admirers. (I'm so feeling the love) I've been afforded the opportunity to not only meet great people and visit some exciting places; I've learned some priceless lessons!!!! This month’s blog is dedicated to the model. Your gifts breathe life and motion into mine. Therefore, I'm packing this blog full of helpful tips that will hopefully get you one step closer to your dream.

1. First Impressions- We can't all be 5’10″ but put your best foot forward. When visiting an agency, have a professional portfolio and a comp card. Have these prepared before contacting any of the agencies. Say no to the cold calling, mail your comp cards instead. Make sure that your photos best represent the market that you are trying to work in.

2. Timing (My personal pet peeve) If you're on time, yep...you’re late! – Be early – 15 minutes early. If you are attending an open call – do not show up 15 minutes before the end of the open call. Arrive NO LATER than 45 minutes to an hour before the end of the open call. Open calls can be exhausting for the casting director. Always be respectful of others time.

3. Presentation Simple is the key! Dress simple in solid colored clothing. You want the casting director to see you, not your personal style. A simple solid colored blouse or sweater is best. Wear dress pants or attractive jeans.(Plain, no labels or graphics). No mini skirts, torn or faded jeans, DON'T GO FOR THE FASHION STATEMENTS!

a. Do not show off a lot of cleavage.
b. Keep makeup minimal, do not over do it. You want them to see a clean fresh canvas. This personally helps me to visualize what can be done opposed to wondering what the real you looks like under all the paint. You don't want to be remembered for too much makeup and mini-skirts that look like they belong on a street corner. (Just saying)
c. Your hair should look its best – clean and full bodied.
d. Heels are also a must. Medium height is great- no need for
stilettos – you don't want to appear as though you're padding your height.
e. Carry yourself with confidence!!
d. Never wear jewelry. As a model – you are not being hired for your fashion sense. You want them to remember you and not what you are wearing.

Most important!!!! Don't trust everyone that talks a good game! Invest in knowing your craft and the inner workings of the business. Surround yourself with positive, reliable, and trustworthy people. This industry is filled with leeches that are just waiting to better themselves by taking advantage of your eagerness to succeed. So that's my skinny on the modeling business. Never stop chasing your dreams...go catch 'em!!!

Fashionably Yours,
Linda

Different by Design....Summer Review

2011-06-19T21:33:00.000-07:00

Vacation....now there's a word I haven't used in years. I literally started working on accomplishing my dreams and the next thing I knew, four years had passed. I must admit that as I look at the things I've accomplished, it was well worth it! I can still stay that in spite of the apparent bumps along the way, I wouldn't change a thing about the chaotic roads that fashion has and continues to take me down.

It's been some time now since I've actually had the chance to sit and update my blog. So as I sit staring out the window of the Venetian hotel at the most remarkable view, allow me give you the cliff notes to all the fabulousness that has occupied me over the past few months.....

March brought in the spring with a trip to Dallas to be featured along side Nicholas D'Aurizio of Project Runway and Oscar Fierro in the Celebrity Fashion Experience II. As I prepared to showcase I was graced with the opportunity to be interviewed by the very bubbly and beautiful Toni Donclottni. Our interview was featured on Dallas CW33 KDAF.
FHM and Ron Smith brought a chic upscale runway show to the Aloft. Topping off me evening, the lovely Dawn Nuefeld of NFL Housewives attended the event, wearing one of the pieces from my Spring 2011 collection!

April gave me the opportunity to bring things home to Arkansas. Behind glass windows that overlooked the city of Little Rock, I brought Haute in the City to the grand ballroom of the Clinton Library. In a small intimate setting during the high afternoon, my Fall 2011 collection hit the runway. The show was hosted by Miss Arkansas USA Lakynn McBride. FYI her beauty comes from within and I was honored that she came out just for me.

May was delightful for me. I had the opportunity to attend the birthday bash for Kathy Jordan Sharpton as well as design her attire for the evening. The star studded event is held each year by Kathy Jordan Sharpton to raise funds for the city's youth. Her spirit impacted me in a way that will be with me forever. As Marvin Sapp sang like I've never heard, I got my praise on along with my guest for the evening, the handsome super model Bobby Roache. During my visit to the big apple I was honored with the privilege to be a special guest on Rev. Al Sharpton's radio show.

And that's my summer in review. Each opportunity I've humbly accepted and each opportunity God has placed some wonderful people in my path. Now it’s back to the sewing machine...New York awaits!!

Different by Design......Ode to the Icon

2011-03-04T16:28:00.000-08:00

Diana Ross and Oprah Winfrey! Need I say more? Two of the most influential women in history, together. Wow. I was literally glued to the screen as Oprah interviewed the groundbreaking icon. I shook my head vigorously in agreement with Oprah as she explained what it meant to her seeing Diana Ross on television for the first time.

Immediately, I was taken back to my childhood where I too experienced my own life changing moment because of the sultry songstress. Like many, I can remember dancing around and singing along with Diana Ross as her sweet yet powerful voice transformed once hopeless listeners into dreamers. But the moment I'll never forget was turning on the television and sitting down to the movie Mahogany. I was maybe 10 years old when I saw it the first time, but chills ran up and down my spine.

I'll try not to spoil the movie for anyone that hasn't seen it, but shame on you if you hadn't. Tracy, Diana Ross' character rises from a talented, yet over looked secretary to a super model and eventually a world renowned fashion designer. Trust me when I say, no one could have pried my little eyes from the tube. I've often said, it was then that I realized that the passion I had for creating clothing was actually a career. Ms. Ross not only put a title on my passion but the leading lady inspired me a million times more. My mom had said it a million times; that if I believed in what God could do through me, then all dreams were possible.

Though it was just a movie, that day, Diana Ross was living breathing proof for me that I could dream beyond who I was. I could dream beyond my circumstances and reach my destiny. She was more than a singer. She was a black leading actress, well ahead of her time. There are very people that possess the gift or ability to change the world. Thank you Ms. Ross for sharing your gift.

In the beginning, I brought ideas to life with fabric scraps and a simple sewing needle and thread. I've always known that the odds were against me. Although I rarely think about my outer appearance, honestly forgetting sometimes, the world seems to never lose sight of the differences. As the reviews surface and my story broadens, that fact becomes clear. The world sees the little girl that was burned at 2, lost a sister, yet survived to defy the adversities. Don't get me wrong, I greatly appreciate that people admire me and see something in little old me but it amazes me to hear people refer to me as inspirational. I'm speechless but grateful for the journey that God has given me. Indeed, one November day years ago, I received severe burns to only my face and hands, losing all the fingers on the one hand some damage to the other. The fire would alter my appearance to othes greatly, but I see me differently.

I am the little girl that was taught that faith trumps "can't" any day, to see through the outer, to not see black and white, disabilities or impossibilities. I am the little girl with a burning passion that was fueled by a tiny red sewing machine, given to me by my mother. I am the little girl that had a passion to create the things that flowed so brilliantly through my mind. I am that little girl who was given hope that my dreams were not just dreams. That little girl in me keeps me humble, keeps me determined, keeps me looking past my physical differences, and keeps me dreaming beyond my circumstances.

Hopefully one day my tenacity will be the inspiration that drives a hopeless individual to dream beyond their circumstances.

This blog is my ode to the irreplaceble icons in my life...the woman who instilled, my mother, Mrs. Vera Rowe; the woman that inspired, Ms. Diana Ross.

Fashionably yours,

Linda

Scenes from Mahogany (Google images)

Me and my mom

Different by Design.....Fashion Week in Review Part II

2011-02-23T17:47:00.000-08:00

Mercedes Benz Fashion Fall 2011

I know, I know, I left you hanging for nearly a week. But before I can pick up where I left off at fashion week, please allow me to elaborate on some of the amazing things that took place in order to make the Romás Fall 2011 Presentation possible.

I believe it to be divine destiny that Godiva signed on as a sponsor for my show. I am their biggest fan! I was honored beyond belief that one of the world’s most renowned chocolatiers was willing to participate in my vision. I learned a long time ago that God does nothing small in my life. Needless to say, I’d be pleasantly surprised to discover that there were additional delights in store.

As I was frantically working to bring together the collection worthy of being inspired by Godiva, God was busy completing a design of his own. Without question, I believe in myself beyond measures. Therefore I never hesitate to put in my own blood, sweat, tears and finances to bring forth the dream to reality. It’s a stressful and almost impossible thing for any new designer to do alone. Good thing I wasn’t alone....
Behind the scenes, Ron Smith my producer was diligently being the producer as well /everyone else that I needed him to be. What I didn’t know was that on my behalf someone had chosen to tell my story within the industry.

At the end of day, established models, hair and makeup artist, coordinators, interns, assistants and so many others had come from all over New York. To my surprise, most came volunteering their time and services after they’d heard my story. They walked, hopped on the subway, whatever needed to just to be there for me. Wow! Really? My words can't express the gratitude that I felt, discovering what perfect strangers had decided to do for “me”. It is an action that I'll never forget, but pray that I’m blessed to pay forward.

Ok, so finally the doors open and as I said before, already the press is swarming. I was swiftly whisked away by Mykel so that my grand appearance was timed just right. The music starts and the girls are poised and beautiful after being transformed at the hands of celebrity makeup artist William Marshall and others. (Honestly, I wish I had all the names.)

As I took my place in the finale walk, I was truly at peace. This is what I was born to do. To my surprise, there was a full house! The cameras began flickering like lightning flashes from all over the room. Getty Images was front and center. It was so Hollywood and all for little Linda from Douglassville, Texas. My meet and greet would reveal that the crowd consisted of representatives from Ebony, Essence, Seventeen, Elle, and Allure magazine, just to name a few. Seriously, I’d dreamt of the moment, even practiced it when I was younger, but seeing it unfold before my eyes was absolutely priceless. The sophomore collection definitely brought in some new faces. There were well known Industry bloggers, the Fashion List, Daily Front Row, Samantha from the Agency model management, the Examiner, and many, many more. Again, I wish I could name them all.

One of the highlights of my evening was being honored with the opportunity to meet with and be interviewed by Harriette Cole, whom we all know from Ebony magazine. (Pinching myself still) A hug from Anthony, producer of the Wendy Williams show was soon followed by a hug from Patrick, producer from Oprah. Yes, I was grinning like a Cheshire cat that these men, this crowd took the time to attend “my” event. Patrick was one of many familiar faces there to support me again. The lovely Kathy Sharpton arrived with her daughters and sister. Celebrity stylist Steven Styles, Mykel, Lisan of the Fabulous Report, Cognac, and Carla Hazel were back to let me know that I had their support.

When the applause died, the lights went dim and the room was quiet, I took the elevator to my suite and………. I did the happy dance all over that room. Without a doubt, ALL things are possible. And there is my week in review and what an awesome experience it turned out to be.
THANK YOU!!! From the bottom of my heart to everyone that put their hands into helping me make the Romás Fall/Winter 2011 Presentation a success. THANK YOU, to all the people that continue to support me from near and far.

What’s next? Hmmmm, Oprah? Ellen? Wendy? I’m ready for my close up………We’ll see, but someone should let Ellen know that I too went to high school in Atlanta, TX. I mean, hey, I’m dying to see if she recalls and can do the famous Atlanta High bunny hop. Yeaaaa, we were the Rabbits. LOL Until next time!

Fashionably yours,

Linda

Images by Shawn Punch & Devon Aderly

Diffrent by Design.....Fashion Week in Review Part I

2011-02-18T14:32:00.000-08:00

Fashion week in review......

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Fall 2011

My week began with the expected chaos plus some surprises. Who would have thought that the night before I was to catch my flight to New York that a snow storm would hit Little Rock, Arkansas of all places! By Wednesday God had majestically sprinkled the city with 6-7 inches of beautiful white snow. The kids loved it because as usual they were not aware of the disaster that could be accumulating outside for mommy. Though I should have, I didn't panic.

Between you and me, I was 4 days away from debuting my fall 2011 collection and two of the strongest pieces lacked the details that made me say, "Ahhhh, it is done." The Fall/Winter 2011 collection is inspired by by my love for Godiva chocolates. Therefore this one had to be perfect! I absolutely love Godiva chocolates! I even carry a Godiva card in my purse. Lol. Imagine the utter elation that I experienced when Godiva signed on as an official sponsor for the Romás Fall 2011 Presentation.

One of the down sides to being a designer in Little Rock is the lack of resources. No where no how was I going to find a Godiva gold invisible zipper in Little Rock! I used the extra time that God saw fit to allow me to not sleep for nearly 2 days and perfect the last minute details. Friday morning I boarded the flight to New York, zipper less finale dress and all. No worries....I told myself that whatever was meant to be on that runway would be there.

Honestly, there are still times that I will almost doubt myself. Seriously, I am sewing these garments with my very own hands, not shipping them off to be carefully constructed by a manufacturer. Which leads me to wonder if I can really stack up to major conglomerates in the industry. Welllll....we shall soon find out because I'll never give up on this gift that God instilled in me.

New York.....I hit the ground running. Literally dropped my bags in the room and went to approve the space and began my fittings. (still running on 2hours of sleep in 2days) When Mood fabrics opened on Saturday, I was waiting. Yay! I got my Godiva gold invisible zipper and some extras. Zipper in hand I rushed off to rent a machine to sew it in. No such luck! :(But God had this moment covered the first time that I showed in New York. The hours are ticking and I decided to stay up that night and hand stitch the zipper in. I finished at 4am but wasn't close to being satisfied with sending the finale dress out with the possibilities of a mishap on the runway.

February 13, 2011 11:00am.......The show was starting in 6 hours and Oh yeah, the dress is without the zipper again because I'd ripped it out. I had to get that finale dress on the runway. "What am I gonna do Lord," i asked. And then it hit me, I'd met Marcy, broadway actress/singer last season and became a great friends. She'd shared her love for sewing as a hobby. Sooo a quick call to Marcy and her husband drops off a machine at the hotel. But by now I have 2 hours to put in an invisible zipper perfectly and then prepare myself! This was a reality series unfolding before my eyes. Was the dress gonna make it? Would I actually be on time for one of the biggest nights of my life?

In an instance, I felt my mother's faith rise up in me. I felt my brother, my sisters, my children, believing that I could do everything that God had destined for me and I started sewing on Marcy's beautiful vintage machine.
Ok, it's 4:00pm quicker than I could blink, the phone was ringing like crazy. The press had started showing up already and the show wasn't set to start until five. I snapped on a beautiful necklace that I'd been given for my birthday. It bears the birthstones of my parents and makes me feel as though they are sharing that moment with me. I inhale a deep breathe. "I'm ready." The elevator door closes and I know that once that door opens it all would come to a long awaited climax.
I'd soon find out if the months of sewing, the sleepless nights, the stressing, and praying was going to work in my favor.

I always knew that when I stepped into this world I’d have to be able to deal with criticism as well as praise. I knew I was opening myself up to be rejected or accepted beyond my belief. My life, who I am has prepared me for this moment since I was 2 years. I smiled as Karen, my right hand for the night, assured me that I was all good and the doors opened to much more than I'd expected....

TO BE CONTINUED

Fashionably yours,
Linda

Different by Design....The Eleventh Hour Part II

2011-01-20T11:50:00.000-08:00

I am on such a natural high as I type this blog. The past couple of weeks have literally snowballed into a whirlwind of wonderful chaos. Allow me to set the scene....
I was in the studio, head down, cutting fabric like a mad woman. There are piles of beautiful fabric stacked from one end of the cutting room to the next. Each pile of organized chaos will soon be carried into the sewing room to become my next vision. Things were really frantic because I'd pushed pause a few days earlier to shoot my Fall 2011 Pre-Fall campaign with Furonda Brasfield of ANTM. (Who by the way is a modeling beast in front of the camera.) And then BOOM I lose 3 additional days of work due to the snow.
Anyway, I get a call from Monica, my really good friend that just also happens to be my executive assistant. She says with that little girl grin that I can’t see but I know is there, that she's about to knock my socks off. I was not disappointed!!!! Apparently, Monica was contacted by the publicist for WNBA star Candice Wiggins. Candice wanted to wear Romás to a Golden Globe charity event that she would be attending. Needless to say I screamed and thanked God for the mere favor of possibilities that he that he continues to bestow upon me. A day of hoping would go by before I got the green light to ship three dresses of interest to LA. Pause button, again to!!! I halted all productions and personally made sure that the dresses went out overnight. That was Friday and the Golden Globes wouldn't happen until Sunday.
For an entire weekend, I tried not to get to hopeful and I focused on getting the next line out. No, it wasn't easy but I stayed on course. By Sunday evening I was burnt out and simply crashed on the couch. Around 8:00 pm I did finally rouse from the nap that turned out to be a sleep deprived coma. I had 12 missed calls. Seriously, I want to say that half were from Monica, but who's counting. I quickly returned her call and her first words were, "Did you check your text?"
And there it was. As plain as day.....A picture of WNBA star Candice Wiggins wearing my dress!
"Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!" I don't have to tell you how much screaming and jumping around there was in my house that night. Awesome huh? But....here's what really got me;
Candice and I have never met. She'd only read my bio and saw pictures of my work but when asked about the dress that she was wearing, she replied "Linda Rowe Thomas is creator of the line, and she’s an inspiration to me. At a very young age, she was seriously burned in a house fire and it left her physically marred for life, but she didn’t let her injuries hold her back from achieving her dreams. I greatly admire her for that, and I feel so fortunate to be able to wear a dress that was created by such an amazing person!"
I will always adore Candice; be her biggest fan, but not because of her mad skills on the court, but because of the simple fact that someone of status could have easily chose Armani for her red carpet look, yet she chose ME.

I'm so grateful for God's favor and for the willing people that allow themselves to be vessels of blessings in my life. So, until next time, keep dreaming, keep hoping and never lose faith. When it’s time, God always steps in.

Fashionably yours,
Linda

Diffrent by Design....Eleventh Hour

2011-01-04T20:19:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! There are new anticipations, new deadlines, and new goals to achieve.

What's the deal with the "eleventh Hour", you ask. Well...the eleventh hour means the latest possible time. I happen to be knee deep in fashion's eleventh hour. LOL. During the holidays I did the unthinkable....Yes! I shut down the studio and packed the kids into the SUV (gifts and all) and drove home to Texas for a week with the family. I didn't want to think about a sewing machine. Ok, so I did break to work one day. I wound up droving 2 hours to Dallas to do some fabric shopping. The drive got me to thinking about the beginning, when I first stepped out on faith and produced my very first fashion show, 10 years ago.

Wow, humble beginnings and devoted family will forever keep me grounded. With 4 grand, which I borrowed from mommy,I bought fabrics, hired seamstresses and rented a ballroom at the Renaissance Hotel in Dallas, Texas. I'll never forget how nervous I was. I practically hyperventilated as I peeked through the curtains to get a glimpse of the guest. There weren't a lot of people there besides friends and family, but at the end of the night, I was prouder than a first time mom.

From there I did shows at reunions, churches, schools, or where ever I could. I was thirsty for the industry and on a mission to make it. My how I've transitioned from mom and pop to shows to celebrities, from small town fashion galas to New York Fashion Week; I've come a very long way. Thankfully, God put some great people in my path that believed in me and He paved my path with blessings.

The holidays gave me a quick and much needed break but "OH" the chaos that was awaiting when I returned. The studio was filled with swatches to order and finalize, fabrics to cut, patterns to make, pieces to sew and that doesn't even include all the business decision that I have to stamp with my approval. NOTE TO SELF: Get Interns!!!!

So here I am, Jan 4th and I'm due in New York in less than five weeks. The eleleventh hour indeed. As my week continues to fill up with photo shoots, sewing, and scheduling; the Fall 2011 collection continues to come together. Crunch time seems to be my best time but I was destined to dwell in the impossible. Until next time....

Fashionably Yours,

Linda

Different by Design....getting to fashion week

2010-12-19T19:38:00.000-08:00

The clock is ticking, literally. I totally could use about two more hours to add to my day. Between, mommy, designer and mogul-in-the-making, I’m stretched extremely thin.
The countdown to February 13, 2011 has long begun. Currently I'm knee deep in the middle of preparations for my sophomore debut at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York.

The prep time between the September season and the February season is so short. Therefore designers either have to be prepared ahead of time or quickly jump back into workroom and get busy sewing again. (I’m doing the latter of the two, just in case you're wondering)
Before I could even get on the plane for home in September, I was already booking the next show, next appearance, and so on. After months of strictly working nights, weekends, and even 18 hour days, fashion was the last thing on my mind. I needed a vacation. I should have known that wasn’t gonna happen. I was sitting on the plane and a call comes through with a special invite. Another trip? All I had time to do was get the kids home and hop on the plan again to Atlanta, Ga. Ok, I must admit it was quite fun to suddenly jet set off to Atlanta with a VIP invitation to attend a party hosted by Idris Elba himself.
Hoping another turn around flight- back home to Little Rock where there was show after show, waiting for me. I do love it! The adrenalin rush of fashion shows keep me on a natural high, but before I knew it, here I am with less than 2 months away from the next big show. Can you say crunch time? Fabric still needs to be cut, sewn…. Wait who am I fooling? I still need to order some things. Oh it's on now!
What most people don't realize is that there's so much more to the gift that God gave me. I alone sketch, make the patterns, and then sew every single garment that hits my runway from Arkansas to New York. Not bad for the little girl that no one ever thought would make it.
A few days ago, there I was, in the studio sewing like a mad woman, when an email pops up on my phone. It was a celebrity stylist, requesting my purple gown for the red carpet movie premiere of "How Do You Know" with Reese Witherspoon, Owen Wilson, and Jack Nicholson. "Overnight! By 8:00am" she says. Of course I made a mad dash home and then off to Fedex.
Unfortunately, the dress didn't make it there before her flight to LA. BUT, I'm on her list of Go-To designers for red carpet looks!!!! If not this time, next time. So keep an eye out for Romás on the red carpet soon.
Now, although I love writing too, I've got to get back to the sewing machine. Happy Holidays!

Fashionably Yours,

Linda

Different by Design......Dare to Dream.......

2010-12-09T19:38:00.000-08:00

I'm dedicating this blog to my daughter, my nieces, and all the young girls out there that are certain to run into "Can't". I'm hoping that no matter what obstacles they face; no matter how hard the journey to their destiny becomes, that they'll never succumb to the dreaded "Can't". I hope that when the snickers, negative remarks, rejections and failures face them, that they'll reach deep down inside and remember the joy that they received from the hope of endless possibilities and then dare to DREAM. Dream without ceasing until it becomes reality. One of the best assurances of that is to always surround yourself with positive people with positive intentions.

Almost 11 years ago now, a very dear friend and I would sit in the very structured confines of corporate America's ho-hum cafeteria. Over a lunch of her yogurt, fruit, and sometimes pretzels and my occasional salad, we would divulge our fondest dreams. Madison, a former dancer, dreamed of one day being in fitness competitions and eventually become a celebrity fitness trainer. Of course I don't have to tell you that I wanted nothing more than to be a designer.

A few years would pass before Madison actually moved to LA to pursue her dream and eventually career moves would force me to move towards my own passions. Over the years we would remain in touch, continuing to lift each other up and to celebrate the small things that would inevitably lead to bigger moments. I'd like to say that both roads were extremely easy and that we quickly made it to the pinnacle of our careers but that would be a "story" indeed.

With any dream there will come rejections. There will be times when it seems as though your hard work is in vain. Giving up will tempt you at every corner. At times it will seem so hopeless, especially when the ones we deem as less deserving or getting ahead by any means necessary. (If I had a nickel for every time that I witnessed that one.) Ahh but anything worth having is worth working hard for.

In spite of the nay-sayers that would constantly say, “You can’t because___________” . I always moved forward. "Can" was fused into my brain from the moment I can remember. I can only assume it because my mother knew how much I'd hear the word "Can't" being tossed in my direction. Trust me….There is such joy when your dedication begins to pay off.

Ok, so a few years ago, I did Designer's Choice and things suddenly turned around. I was invited to showcase my collection on the LA fashion circuit. Wow! Was I happy!! Meanwhile, my friend Madison has become a very well-known celebrity fitness trainer. I’d been seeing her face on TV and magazines. In the course of my trip she takes me to a star studded play that just happens to co-star a young lady that she has whipped into sickening shape. There we are; front row, VIP, the works. The curtain goes down and the next thing I know we're standing in room with Vivica Fox, Boris Kodjoe and his wife Nicole, Richard Roundtree, Nicole Murphy, Jennifer Lewis, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Kim Whitley and the list just went on.

I was elated that night. But not because I was star struck. (Confession- meeting Tyrese could have changed that...just saying as I bat my lashes innocently) Honestly, I was so proud to see that Madison and I had fought through all the disappointments, setbacks, and downfalls. We had each planted a seed, stepped out on faith and we were,” we are”, walking in our dream. I'm so grateful to have positive friends in my life that continue to encourage me and lift me up. Just this year, my dream manifested further as I launched at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York.
So now comes the fun part. In the weeks to come, follow me as I prepare for my sophomore debut at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week for the Fall 2011 premiere. You’ve got to hear my story about putting everything on pause to send one of my dresses to be a possible red carpet possibility. I’ll let you know next week!!!

Fashionably Yours,

Linda

P.S You can also log onto the website each week to view pictures that accompany each blog. (www.romasdesigns.com)

Different by Design.....The making of me

2010-11-30T21:36:00.000-08:00

Someone asked me the question, "Who do you admire? Wouldn't you love to be the next Versace and would you do anything to get where you want to be?"
That question or questions merits a lot of thought, but then again, not really.

I absolutely love Coco Chanel! She was a visionary before her time. Versace is a definite favorite. I adore Valentino, Oscar De La Renta, Alexander McQueen, ahhh and Dolce and Gabbana...all the greats that will forever be engraved into the fibers of fashion history. My blood pumps in living vivid colors. I live and breathe fashion and I'm so eagerly chasing my own position amongst the world's most renowned masters of design. My greatest inspiration however is my mother. She embodied strength, integrity, faith, and tenacity with such zest that it was undeniable. It is those traits that strive daily to exemplify. You'll often find her inspiration intertwined within my words because that is just what she means to my life; inspiration.

In fashion Donatella Versace did something for her brand that most design houses would probably sell a first born to achieve at any phase of their reign. Donatella took her brother's vision and not only kept it alive but in my opinion, propelled it to greater heights. Now there’s some industry wisdom that I myself would eagerly intake in high doses if given the opportunity. Yet and still, the next Versace though? No.
I think where we make our biggest mistakes when seeking our own success is desiring the gift that God has placed upon another. Let's face it...there will never be another Oprah, Jordan, MJ, or Coco Chanel because God instilled those remarkable gifts into those specific individuals. Will there be other great talk show host, or another awesome ball player, or sensational singer and designer? Absolutely, but each within their own rites.

What God has for me is for me and what He has for you is for you. But because I know that faith without works is dead, I will diligently pursue my destiny and strive to perfect my craft. Though I truly adore respect Donatella's gift, I want what God has designed specifically for Linda Rowe Thomas.

It's quite unfortunate that this industry is filled with "takers" that will say and do whatever it takes to get to the top. It's been a long hard road for me because regardless of my accomplishments or gifts, there are still those that will doubt me at first glance.

True story - I once interviewed with a major retail corporation (I won't put them on blast, even though I should). They literally raved over my vast experience. The first phase of over the phone interviews left me as a shoe in for the position because as the interviewer stated, they hadn't been able to find anyone with as much experience as I had in Little Rock.
My major was fashion merchandising with a minor in marketing. I was head buyer for Belk stores by the time I was 24 years old. I managed yhe Kasper department for Macy's Galleria and then managed the entire western half of the United States retail territory for IBM. Needless to say, I was and am confident in my ability to perform my job professionally as well as creatively. Back to the story though.

The final face to face interview was set to take place in the laid back comfort of the lounge area at the Peabody hotel. Yes, they were that certain that the position was going to be offered to me. From a distance I spotted the well-dressed woman awaiting my arrival. I introduced myself with a firm professional handshake but I immediately knew that the tables had turned. Although she tried, flustered cheeks and all, she couldn't conceal the fact that she wasn't expecting this face to go along with such an impressive resume. As the interview proceeded, she tried harder but failed to be inconspicuous in her ogling of my hands. I honestly give most people the benefit of the doubt and count it as curiosity. At this point in my life I can read a person's first impression of me, whether good or bad, like a Dr. Suess book. Long story short, a day later I was told that they were hiring someone with "more" experience. A week later that same company offered me a much lesser position. (Ok so they really could have found a more suitable candidate on their final day of interviews). But my, does God have a way of bringing things to light.

I took the job, figuring I'd just get my foot in the door and give them the opportunity to see my ability in action. I'm used to having to prove myself. Sooo here's the kicker. I wound up sitting next to the person that was hired into the first position instead of me. (To protect the innocent, we'll her Sue.) Through all the Monday morning buying reports that Sue would soon ask for my assistance with on a regular basis, neither of us knew that she was the person hired because she possessed "more" experience. It was not until one morning after walking Sue through yet another required report and (I kid you not)the oh so difficult task of changing her split screen view back to normal, Sue says to me with the utmost sincerity, "Linda, you have so much more experience at this job, you should have applied for my position."

Well DUH!!!! I did. Funny how not fitting the norm can trump education and experience. (Said with much sarcasm)LOL. Yeah, I was hot when I had the proof of what they'd done staring me in the face, taunting me like a villain as he made his escape. Though it wasn't easy to accept, not getting that position pushed me a bit farther down the road to feeling a little bit more unfulfilled and even more determined to build my label.
To answer that last question; I accept what God allows because it’s all in His grand design to get me to my destiny. There's no lying, cheating, betrayal, stealing or any other crooked thing that could possibly aide in skipping me to the head of the line. I can't take what God has in store for me before my time. As bad as I want to make my mark in fashion, it’s not worth my integrity. That's where my mother's light always shines the brightess in my life. My faith propels me forward each time a door is closed in my face and I'm so grateful that I'm strong enough to keep fighting for my dream with her unwavering tenacity. The setbacks were only setups to the true making of me. The best was yet to come.

Regardless of how much harder the road is when you allow God to take the wheel, it’s so worth it all. I say again, the best was and is yet to come. God opens doors that no man can shut and closes doors that no man can open. Our job is to be trusting and accepting to which ever way the door falls.
Stay tuned....next week, I'll share the first time I stepped into a room filled with stars from Jennifer Lewis, to Boris Kodjoe, to Vivica Fox and so many more.

Fashionably Yours,

Linda

Different by design.....the beginning

2010-11-23T22:51:00.000-08:00

I was walking through Walgreen's the other day, perusing the aisles for some almonds that I'd fallen in love with not an hour earlier and a young lady walked up to me. She was so elated that she'd seen my story in Arkansas Life magazine. The exact same thing happens to me quite often now while shopping all over Little Rock and even in church. My daughter's friends revel in the fact that they know Linda Rowe Thomas' daughter. Bragging? Not even close. Let me further explain.

I'm always taken aback by the love and admiration that I receive. As I sit here today, looking back over my life, I'm totally in awe of where God has brought me from.

Since I was a little girl, growing up deep in the country woods of Douglassville, Texas (seriously, I'm talking cows, chickens, pigs, goats...and plenty of pea picking going on) I've always dreamed of designing clothes. My mother sewed for everyone, especially us. My younger siblings and I were always in matching Easter ensembles. (Classic preacher kids, singing trio and all). Whatever she sewed, I saved the scraps for my dolls next wardrobe. I literally took flat sheets from the linen closet and turned them into my master pieces. Unfortunately my younger brother and sister were sucked into the dream and were forced into being my guinea pigs/runway models. It would be some years later after watching Diana Ross in Mahogany, that I realized my dream was actually a real job.

I was blessed to have a God fearing mother that always believed in me, supported me, and instilled in me that I could do all things! What made those words so powerful to me? When I looked into the mirror as a 5 year old, I saw what everyone saw; the scars, the missing fingers, the differences that the world would never allow me to live down. And here I was passionately seeking a dream job in an industry that was driven by the outer appearance. So, how could she believe in someone like me? As a mother now, I definitely know the answer.

Fast forward to kindergarten. That would be my first encounter with the cruelty that the world was waiting to devour me with. That was the beginning of hearing "You can't because...". That was the beginning of being pushed aside, stared at. look over, ridiculed, taken advantage of and mocked. BUT that was also the beginning of my strength. I've always had a fire inside me that drove me to never give up or to give in. My mother fueled that fire with undying love and faith. I'll never forget witnessing for the first time, the utter joy that others received from making me cry once they'd mocked my very different appearance. (Oh but it only took one time) One time! Something woke up in me that day and refused to ever give someone that much power. Am I saying my feelings were never hurt again? Absolutely not! But I didn't have to let them know that. At 6 years old, I realized that that people treat you based upon the way you present yourself. I just let them know that I was no pushover. Ok, ok so there were a couple of fights that aided in getting the point across. LOL

As the years would go by, my outer strength would soon come from the inside and exude outwards. My journey to become the woman that I'm stepping into was never easy. Through school, colleges, careers, I'd still be stared at, doubted, mocked, looked over, and criticized. However, I wouldn't trade a moment. I know you're thinking, "Yeah right." Honestly, everything that has happened, everything that I've ever gone through, has made me the strong woman that I am today. I look into the mirror now and I love the woman staring back at me. My strength is my faith, my confidence is saturated in humility, and an unstoppable drive is continually fueled by my mother's words to her daughter as she prepared me for the cruel world lurking outside our door, "You can do all things!"

God is the ultimate maker, creator, and designer. I was always taught that God doesn't make mistakes, that though bad things happen, He will work it for the good. I love me! Different? Yes I am? I like to think though that I am different by design. This face, these hands are a part of the journey that God has given me.

When I took to the runway to walk my first finale walk at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week on September 13, 2010, (with my two children on each side of me) I was thinking.... "I wish my mother and father were here to see this." And then my thoughts immediately turned to how anxious I am to see what God has in store for me. When people point and approach me, it's now often because they recognize me for the awesome gift that God has instilled in me. Bragging? Absolutely not? Grateful? You better believe it!

Sooo, I'm willing to share a little bit of me and a whole of my story. Follow me weekly as I embark upon a remarkable journey on my road to becoming a nationally known fashion designer.......

Fashionably Yours,

Linda