Meet Saint Ondres | Fashion Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Saint Ondres and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Saint, why did you pursue a creative career?
I chose to pursue an artistic career because my mind has always been limitless. I’ve always been a very creative person interested in all things art related. From elementary school until I have gained skills in a range of art forms including,
pencil drawing, painting, ceramics, graphic design, art history, and now fashion! I desire for my life to feel as limitless as my imagination. The most suitable career path, in my opinion, is a creative career. Especially, one that allows me to be in charge of the vision.

What should our readers know about your business?
I started my business, Saint Ondres, in 2016 and officially launched to the public in 2017. I started while I was still in college pursuing an advertising management degree. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to join start up incubator, funded by the university, that helped me build a solid foundation for my business. It was because of that I didn’t have as much as a hard time with start up fundamentals, but it was a lot of work nevertheless. I participated in many fashions shows. and vendor funded events, to start to build my brand’s audience. It was not hard to gain the support of my peers once they seen my unique designs and realized my brand was far different from the rest. Since then it has been a lot of trial and error because I’m doing this by myself, and pretty much have been from the start (I did have some lovely interns that I will never forget, Tiffanie, Takeyla, and Cierra thank you so much!) However, from funding, production, marketing, etc it’s pretty much all me. I’ve taken breaks, relaunched, and redirected my vision many times but not once have I ever considered giving up. I’m extremely confident in my ability to successfully run a innovative brand and don’t plan on stopping until I do.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is actually one of my favorite things to do. I’m always inviting my friends to different things around the city. First thing’s first we’re sleeping in. Let’s be clear on that. BUT when we awake we’re brunching, wandering around the city, lunching, wandering some more, dinner, then home. I love to try new places, but I’m definitely a regular at a few. Some of my favorite places are Ms. Icey’s Kitchen, Apt4B, Alma Cocina, The Southern Gentleman, and Breakfast at Barney’s. If we need to go somewhere with a little variety we’ll keep it easy and go to Politan Row at Colony Square, Ponce City Market, or Atlantic Station. You can’t go wrong with any of those. My friends know I’m a sucker for outdoor fun so I’m sure there will be a market, or festival, I want to check out. I’m a big fan of the different events thrown at High Art Museum. Whether it’s checking out a new exhibit, or High Frequency Friday, I’m there. There are always so many fun things to partake in in the city. I could go on and on.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Whew, that’s tough. I guess I would start by giving a shoutout to my mom. It’s because of her I have the ability to express myself through art. She allowed me to be free and showcase my individuality through my appearance at a young age. My first dabble in fashion was when she allowed me to use fabric paint markers to draw on every piece of clothing I owned. My family and friends who have encouraged me from the start to keep pushing through the adversity that comes with entrepreneurship. I would like to give credit to my college organization, On The Rise, and everyone that was a member along with me. From the time that I joined, until my very last day, I grew tremendously. I can honestly say I don’t think I would be the confident, well spoken, and optimistic person I am today if it was not for the character development that organization put me through. Lastly, I would like to give a warm shoutout to the city of Detroit for supporting my business from day one. From fashion shows to events my supporters there always show up for me. Since I went to Michigan State my business is strongly rooted in Michigan. For all of that I am forever grateful.

Website: https://saintondres.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/iamsaintondres?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCiJC_JrwXaIW-3wgsIaLbnA