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

Hi Jayne, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting BY•JA ATELIER was driven by a blend of passion, purpose, and a vision for a better future in fashion. My thought process centered on creating a brand that reflects who I am as a creative and as an individual who cares deeply about sustainability, self-expression, and innovation.

In an industry often marked by excess and unsustainable practices, I saw an opportunity to introduce a brand that not only prioritizes eco-friendly materials and processes but also brings out the true essences of each client, empowering them to express themselves authentically. My background, my family and interests in couture, sustainability, and unique storytelling through design fueled my desire to start a business that not only makes a style statement but also supports environmental conservation and encourages mindful consumption.

BY•JA ATELIER allows me to weave together elements from nature, the wonders of the world, and modern style, creating pieces that feel both timeless and personal.

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.
My journey to where I am today was not an easy one. BY•JA ATELIER began with many names and early ideas, but my first real opportunity came when Ashley Villa of Blooming Modeles Agency invited me to showcase my anime-inspired collection at her fashion show. That’s where I met Rachel Cardenas, the owner of What’s Up Dallas Magazine, who helped me share my story. These two incredible women have since become close friends and supporters, making it possible for me to establish my brand.

But the road ahead was challenging. I faced individuals who tried to tarnish my name, my brand, and my legacy, and at times, they nearly succeeded. Yet, with the support and wise words of those who know me best, I found the strength to start over and keep climbing. The fashion industry can be ruthless, and once, I considered adapting to its cutthroat ways. However, I decided instead to channel the dreams of those who believe in me – my partner, family, models, and fellow creatives – into a new vision for fashion in Dallas. I want the world to know that, just like each of us, fashion deserves to shine through the beauty that we all possess. Together, we can create art that supports one another and celebrates true creativity.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Dallas for a week, I’d make sure they experience the best of what the city has to offer – from exciting nightlife and Southern eats to serene parks and artistic inspiration.

DAY 1: We’d start in Downtown Dallas with brunch at Bread Winners Cafe & Bakery before visiting the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center for creative inspiration. Dinner would be at The Woolworth, where we’d enjoy cocktails with a fantastic night view of this bustling city.

DAY 2: For some Texas flavor, we’d head to the Bishop Arts District, where we’d wander through unique boutiques, grab lunch at Hattie’s, and check out the local art galleries. The evening would be spent bar-hopping, with stops at Oddfellows and Wild Detectives, a bookstore/bar combo with a creative vibe.

DAY 3: We’d visit Deep Ellum, Dallas’ most artistic neighborhood, famous for its street murals and live music. We’d have lunch at Pecan Lodge for some of the city’s best barbecue, then spend the afternoon exploring art galleries and vinyl shops. In the evening, we’d catch a show at Trees or Club Dada to dive into the live music scene.

DAY 4: To slow things down, we’d head to Klyde Warren Park, a green oasis in the middle of the city. We’d grab food from the vast, intercontinental-themed food trucks, and then take a short walk over to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science for a mix of fun and education. Dinner would be a bit more upscale at Fearing’s Restaurant for refined Texan cuisine.

DAY 5: We’d take a day trip to Texas’ country hotspot, Fort Worth, for a taste of the cowboy wild lifestyle. We’d visit the Fort Worth Stockyards for a historic feel and catch the cattle drive. Lunch would be at Joe T. Garcia’s for legendary Tex-Mex, and we’d explore the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth in the afternoon before heading back to Dallas.

DAY 6: To embrace nature, we’d head to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden for a relaxing day among beautiful flowers and lake views. Afterward, we’d grab lunch at White Rock Lake and enjoy a peaceful walk or rent kayaks. We’d end the day with dinner at Tei-An in the Arts District for Japanese cuisine.

DAY 7: On the final day (noooooo lol), we’d explore Uptown Dallas, riding the vintage McKinney Avenue Trolley and stopping for brunch at The Rustic for great food and live music. We’d spend the afternoon shopping at Highland Park Village and wrap up with a luxurious dinner at Nick & Sam’s.

Dallas has a unique balance of lively excitement and laid-back charm, with spaces that spark creativity and calm the mind. From artistic districts to serene green spaces, this city has it all for a memorable and inspiring experience.

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 dedicate my shoutout to those who have shaped me and BY•JA ATELIER. My great-grandmother, who first taught me how to sew and create, as well as the women in my family, who instilled in me self-love and a deep appreciation for the beauty in everyone and nature, have been my foundation. I also honor my late partner, Drew Faller, whose inspiration and support were fundamental in building this brand from the ground up. Lastly, I am grateful to the models and creatives I meet along the way, who teach and support me, adding invaluable perspectives that help me grow as a designer.

Website: https://www.byjaatelier.wixsite.com/ecoatlr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byja.atelier

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byja.atelier?_rdr

Image Credits
Navid Nader of N2Design (for the anime-inspired collection photo)

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