By Melissa Billie Clark
As we anticipate our first-ever fashion show, “Spring in Bloom,” for the Spring Creek Towers community, we are excited to spotlight the local stars who will bring this event to life: our fashion designers, models, and entrepreneurs.
Designer / Model Jaylynn Rivers: “The Renaissance Teen”, featured on April 11th
“I want people to feel like the best versions of themselves when they wear my designs.”
Whoever said you can’t have it all never walked in a day in the life of Jaylynn Rivers. At 15 years old, she’s an accomplished model, dancer, business owner, community activist, anti-bullying advocate, and fashion designer. Featured on Fox 5 News, PIX 11, The AM Show and having performed at the Apollo Theatre and Sony Hall, Rivers is determined to utilize her skills for the greater good and make a difference. Her positive attitude is attributed to her life experiences at such a young age.
SCS: When did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in fashion design?
JR: I’ve always had a deep love for fashion. Still, I truly knew I wanted to design and style when I realized that clothing is more than just fabric—it’s a powerful form of self-expression and a statement of individuality. Even as a child, I was drawn to unique pieces and found myself constantly altering and styling clothes in a way that felt deeply personal. My passion for creating my own designs grew as I began sketching ideas and envisioning how they could be transformed into real garments.
I remember asking my mother if I could showcase my designs on the runway, a moment that marked a turning point in my journey. That bold step led to my first runway show at Fashion Week Brooklyn, and soon after, I had the opportunity to participate in Atlantic City Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week. These experiences culminated in the birth of Jaylynn World Boutique. This platform not only allowed me to debut my work but also opened doors for other young talents to walk in major shows and launch their own brands and businesses. I began modeling at the age of 10 and developed a passion for design by the time I was 11, solidifying my commitment to a lifelong love of fashion.
SCS: What was the first piece that you designed?
JR: The first piece I designed was a vibrant pink dress, a project that truly marked the beginning of my journey as a fashion designer. Inspired by the iconic allure of Barbie, I was drawn to the playful yet bold nature of the color, as well as its connotations of fun and femininity. I poured my heart into every step—from sketching the design and selecting the perfect fabric to meticulously sewing and tailoring each detail. The process was both challenging and exhilarating, and when I finally saw my vision come to life, it was a moment of pure joy and validation. Wearing that dress felt like stepping into a dream, a tangible reminder that creativity and hard work could indeed transform an idea into something beautiful and meaningful.
SCS: How long does it take to design a piece?
JR: It depends on the complexity of the design. Some pieces come together quickly, maybe in a few days, while others require weeks of planning, sketching, selecting fabrics, and refining the details. Custom pieces take even longer, especially when intricate stitching or embellishments are involved. However, no matter how long it takes, the process is always worthwhile.
SCS: What do you want people to feel when wearing your clothes?
JR: Confidence, power, authenticity. I want people to feel like the best version of themselves when they wear my designs. Fashion is not just about looking good, it’s about feeling good. When someone puts on a piece I’ve created, I want them to walk with their head high, feeling like they can take on anything.
SCS: You are a dancer, model, and fashion designer; which one do you find more challenging?
JR: While dancing and modeling allow me to express myself more instinctively, fashion design is the most challenging. It demands meticulousness and behind-the-scenes work that the other art forms don’t require. Every aspect of fashion design—from sketching unique concepts to the painstaking process of sewing and selecting materials—calls for a deep commitment to detail and creativity. Beyond the creative process, there’s the added layer of building and marketing a brand, which involves navigating business decisions and staying ahead of ever-changing trends. This multifaceted approach means I must constantly learn and adapt, blending artistry with technical precision and strategic planning. Although all three disciplines enrich my life, fashion design pushes me to grow in ways that continuously test my patience and expand my skill set.
SCS: What does it mean to you to participate in this event with the Opportunity Hub?
JR: I feel immensely honored to be part of the Opportunity Hub event. A platform that aligns with my values of growth, opportunity, and community, and amplifies them. This initiative provides a unique platform where individuals can showcase their talents, share innovative ideas, and connect with like-minded people who share a passion for making a positive impact. Being surrounded by such dynamic energy and enthusiasm is both invigorating and inspiring. It reminds me that when people unite with a common purpose, remarkable growth, and transformative change are within reach. For me, the event is not just a gathering; it’s a celebration of potential and collaboration—a true testament to the power of community in creating opportunities that uplift and empower us all.
