Meet Malia Alvina Meleah Gray Brown | Designer & Therapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Malia Alvina Meleah Gray Brown and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Malia Alvina, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” Arthur Ashe It’s fundamental to life for me. It reminds me to be grateful for where I am and that what I have within me is enough. It reminds me to give myself grace and not put too much pressure on myself. In terms of business , it reminds me that I don’t need to compete or compare, I have what it takes and from that, I can do what needs to be done. It’s like no matter where you are or what you have in life there is possibility for something greater.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I like to think of myself like a mad scientist when it comes to art. I get this creative flow of energy and I just create. I design clothes, sew , paint , make graphic art and create surface designs.

Related to Sew Dope, I’ve created a lifestyle brand. I incorporate materials that would otherwise go to waste and use them to create wearable art. I take preloved clothing and transform it into quality one of one garments. I also create handmade totes , clutches and fanny packs. I too incorporate curator apparel for resale. Being that it is a lifestyle brand, you will also find graphic tees and hoodies designed by me.

I am most proud of my Signature Camo jackets though!!! I redesign and sometimes reconstruct camo jackets to create individual pieces of art that represent for my culture. You will often find individuals or textiles that I love incorporated into my designs , like Ankara or people like Angela Davis.

The design process came easy, I’ve always been artistic , knowing what materials, techniques , equipment etc. took some research.

The most important lessons I learned are to start small and see what happens. I also learned to be more intentional with my purchases and product offerings. I was so desperate for small business success that I made decisions that were counterproductive to my goals.

I want people to know that my brand is meant to represent a lifestyle of self expression and celebrate individuality. I’m also a Licensed Therapist and I know first hand that if you look good you feel good. I want people to feel good about who they are and I hope that my designs are representative of that.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We would have to hit Little 5 points, The King Center, Botanical Gardens, Krog Street for the graffiti, Ponce City Market (The Village Market ATL) and hopefully catch the Braves playing the Dodgers! Might even hit Cascade and skate.

Food : We are definitely hitting up Slutty Vegan twice ,  , The Juicy Crab, Mr Everything , King of Pops and Anna;s Bbq , JJ Fish & Chicken, oh and grabbing some lemonade from Lemonadmixology!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My tribe , my tribe , my tribe!

My mentor is instrumental in me being where I am and having the confidence that I do. She gave me so much knowledge about business, not just having a business, but the personal toll of being a Black Woman in Business. She taught me to keep my heels and my head high and to love myself more.

Book: Living On Your Own terms, What is real rebellion ? by OSHO
Its about being authentic to self in order to achieve ultimate happiness. It deals with the personal search for meaning and purpose.

Big ups to my family and framily , my tribe. They have been my foundation since day.
And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my two Suns (sons) and biggest fans and supporters.

Website: maliasewdope.com

Instagram: @maliasewdope

Facebook: maliasewdope /Malia Alvina

Other: nonprofit in progress focusing on mental wellness of bipoc . @sewciallyirresponsible

Image Credits
bonnie j and dtailphotos