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

Hi Dawana, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Since a child, I have always enjoyed vibrant colors and weird fashion. Often times I was afraid to express my myself because I was afraid of what others would say and/or think about my clothes. Once I got to college, I noticed that fashion was a “THANG.” I later discovered my passion for men’s clothing. I love everything about a man! I just knew this was my calling because I was so good at styling my friends and family. After many attempts, it seemed like I could never get it off the ground! I was afraid of what I could do! One day, I was sitting at my desk and I literally said I am going to start my business today. Blue Saignant Co. is the name of my line; it means “blue blood.” Saignant is French for blood/bleeding. Originally born and raised from New Orleans, Louisiana , so it was imperative that I incorporated our French culture ; while blue is my favorite color. Overall, you have to crawl before you walk and the only shots you miss is the ones you don’t take. All bets is on me, I believed in myself as well as my craft.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Odds are, if you would ask a random individual what they are most proud of; you’d get some pretty varied and undoubtedly impressive answers. However, I am most proud of my life it self. As cliche` as it may sound, I stand on it. Staying humble is how I get to where I am today. In order for you to lead, you need to know how to follow. It’s never easy because every boss has struggled with taking advice or direction from others. Once I understood the concept of being a boss and maintaining, it was up from there! One thing I have learned through out this journey, is patience is key. Success will come as long as you put in the ground work. I want the world to know that fashion is what you make of it . Don’t ever be afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone. Blue Saignant Co. was created for individuals who are not afraid to be different. Each design has a story and meaning behind it. The clothes don’t wear the person, the person wears the clothes.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta is literally the best place to have full course meal and turn up all in the same spot. First, we would definitely eat at Thumbs Up first, the French toast and fried catfish is to die for! I love walking on the Belt Line, its gives me a solid peace of mind and it allows me to reset. So Saturday morning, we at the Belt Line before the turn up. Saturday night, we at Gold Room, if you know you know. Sundays are made for brunch , so we brunch at The Hive in Buckhead.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to start by acknowledging the man above first and foremost. I want to dedicate my shoutout to the both of my lovely parents. Without them, I would have never made it this far. When I gave up on myself, they didn’t give up on me. When I felt like I failed, they reassured me that success was near. When I doubted myself, they made me felt worthy and more than enough. For that, I want to recognize my parents because without them I would not be the boss I am today.

Website: https://bluesaig.com/

Instagram: @bluesaignant_co

Image Credits
Models: Zee, Judeson, Johnny, Max, Suave, Wayne & Quinton Photographer: Dr8nn

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