Meet Qaysean Williams | The one-hand sewing man

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

Hi Qaysean, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I always say, “Fashion found me,” because it was something that blossomed while I was in middle school out of a need to disguise my disability and get friends to focus on my fashion, instead of my arm. Throughout the years, my interest grew, and eventually, I turned this emergent passion into a business, shortly after graduating high school in 2008.

I named my brand Manikin LLC because the world is the blueprint of fashion
representing the foundation of “display.”

My fashion designs are intended to make people feel beautiful inside and out because clothes are an extension of one’s confidence, self-expression, playfulness, emotion, etc. Being my authentic self has helped me to elevate my business to new levels via a platform I have proclaimed as a vehicle of self-love. These unique campaigns, as I call them, are my way to inspire hope and remind my clients to love who they are regardless of the obstacles they face. In turn, my clients become the manikin of my designs to bring them to life.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Manikin represents true self-expression. My garments reflect my unique expertise and ability to create genuine high-quality designs. The intricacies of the details in each garment are always strategically thought out and intentional. My creations are made to leave a lasting impression on anyone that lay eyes on them, from using eye glistening sequin fabrics, delicate but in-depth laces, sleek and slick vinyl and even PVC fabrications in which each garment represents a different story. The beautiful thing about the story is that it’s further written once the client wears it and embodies the garment making it a brand-new experience.

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.
My best friend and I like to dance and have a good time so it’s a must to hit up the ATL club scene.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My hometown Trenton NJ gets my shout-out this time! I have deep roots there, as it doubles as both my birthplace and where I have built an extensive clientele list which has been a driving force in my success and getting my designs out there. I feel it is important to represent my hometown anywhere that I go because I am a product of the talent, beauty, and culture of that city. While it may sometimes get a bad rep, the flip side of the equation is that I am obligated to share my success so that it continues to shed light on its greatness.