GLOBAL YOUNG TALENT 2020: JASMYNE SUMMERS | EMPOWERS WOMEN THROUGH BEAUTIFUL BRIDAL DESIGNS

Jasmyne Summers the founder and owner of Page XVII (17) aims to empower women through her beautiful bridal designs. As part of our Global Young Talent in the November issue of Harper’s Bazaar UK, we had the pleasure of speaking to the womenswear designer, Jasmyne Summers about how her relationship with God influences her designs.

1. What made you want to go into designing Bridal gowns?

I consider myself to be a ready to wear and bridal designer. I started Page XVII (17) designing for the everyday woman. I got serious about designing wedding gowns after I stepped away from my brand for about 2 years and entered into the world of bridal styling for a high end showroom. I fell in love with all of the details that go into bridal gowns. I’m very big on texture, structure and volume. Designing bridal gowns allows me to pour as many details that I want into one garment. It’s also a plus that I get to be involved in one of the biggest days of a woman’s life.

"I got serious about designing wedding gowns after I stepped away from my brand for about 2 years and entered into the world of bridal styling for a high end showroom."

2. Why was the notion to empower women so important to your collection?

Empowering women is so important to my collection because for so long I didn’t know my identity and I didn’t understand how to use my gifts. Through design I am able to have a voice that encourages women to walk in the confidence and purpose that God has given them. My brand is for woman who has struggled with knowing her self worth. She has a story to tell but she’s not quite sure how to tell it. I want women to know that they can set the standard high and tell their story through fashion. Great clothing is always the outlet for great conversation.

3. Where do you get your inspiration for the shaping of your gowns?

I get my inspiration from my culture, traveling and my surroundings. I love visiting new places and experiencing all it has to offer. When I design my mind has to be at peace in order for God to reveal shapes, themes and colour schemes. I’m also very inspired by the sewing techniques of African designers and I look forward to learning new ways to incorporate them into my designs.

"I get my inspiration from my culture, traveling and my surroundings."

4. Do you believe femininity and elegance are the foundations of your collections?

The foundation of any collection that I design past, present and future is God. My relationship with God allows me to be in tune with my creativity. The Femininity and elegance of my clothing is the result of God’s strong foundation. Page XVII (17) strives to make to women feel beautiful, strong and confident to tackle any task that life may throw at her. Women go through many life changes from starting a new career to falling in love. Page XVII (17) vows to be with her every step of the way.

5. What will you take forward from this collection and use in your future designs or garments?

Page XVII (17) by Jasmyne S. is heavily rooted in the ability to tell a story. I’m excited about the future stories that will come from the “Trinity” collection. The world can look forward to custom beadwork, voluminous shapes, and innovation from brand. Page XVII (17) is excited about expanding into new territory, entering new closets, and saying “I DO”! Life is like a storybook. Everyone has a story ... what page does yours begin on?

"I’m excited about the future stories that will come from the “Trinity” collection. The world can look forward to custom beadwork, voluminous shapes, and innovation from brand."

Discover Jasmyne Summers's full collection

Words by Reka Dala