Modest fashion in Canada
Are you familiar with modest apparel? We had a chance to interview Jenan Keogh, the Canadian designer behind a modest apparel brand called DANYA and we are excited to share it with you!
Instagram: @danyamodestclothing
Website: https://shopdanya.com/
Email: hello@shopdanya.com
Tell us about your professional journey. How / when and why did you start your business?
I was a frustrated consumer. I noticed there was a gap in the fashion industry. Modest wear wasn’t really the forefront. I knew there were some modest apparel brands but they weren’t exactly what I was looking for. So I had this idea for a while but only recently launched my own clothing line. I wanted clothing that was vibrant, custom made here in Toronto. I wanted to know that My clothes were made by experienced individuals, paid a livable wage. I also felt that it was important to have a message that resonated with me as an individual. I never want a woman to ask me if she is “allowed” to purchase a piece from our collection or ask if she is “allowed” to wear it a certain way. Clothing for all women, of all faiths. We want you to feel loved because we made these pieces with love.
What have been the top 3 challenges you have encountered with your business so far? How have you worked around them?
The first one I would say is exposure. The fashion industry is fast, busy, and loud. We use Instagram as a tool for exposure. Some Fashion shows ex. SFW VANCOUVER and Startup Fashion Week – Toronto. The second challenge is staying patient through this entire process. It’s very easy to get lost in what others are doing and comparing yourself. The best remedy is reminding myself with how new I am and people present the most desirable features so you can’t always take what they “say” they are doing for face value. The third, staying focused and true to myself/ my brand. I just go back to my vision board and it reminds me of how authentic my brand is, which makes me so happy!
What was the most exciting moment for your business? Why?
Our most exciting moment was when we flew out to Vancouver for the very first time to showcase our pieces! That felt like a dream come true! I saw Startup Fashion Week on instagram before and I “knew” I would be there one day. Not long after it actually happened!
What are some unique aspects about your business that people should know about?
We genuinely love inclusivity. We make everything here in Toronto by artisans that have over 30 years of experience. We also have a take-back program where our customers can return their gently used garments from our collection and in return receive a discount on their next purchase. We repurpose the used clothes. This keeps garments out of landfills and keeps the life of the fabric linger.
What is your most popular product? Why do you think that is?
Our most popular product is the Cinderella’s Satin Skirt, our Knit Tops and our Sophia polka dot satin dress. I think women love them for the luxurious feel, and print.
If you could only choose one song to play every time you walked into a room for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
I’m not too sure but it would have to be a motivational one hahaha
Outside of your business, describe who you are. What are your interests, hobbies and favourite things?
Who I am- I believe everything happens for a reason. Positivity is always best. I love a good laugh. Your vibe/energy speaks before you do. I love playing with my children, going for drives, eating fat food, Shoe shopping.
Tell us a funny or really interesting story that has happened to you / your business in the last year.
I randomly followed this one girl on ig and she followed me back. I would comment on her stories every now and then. One day I was looking through her stories and I accidentally clicked something and sent her a photo. I messaged her saying “I’m so sorry! I have no idea what I sent you!”I was worried I sent her an ugly selfie with that angle that makes you look like you have 3 chins. Hahaa She responded saying “oh, don’t worry! You just resent my story to me” I then asked her what it was cuz I had no idea. It was a post on Startup Fashion Week. Looking for one more designer for Vancouver and to fill in an application. It turned out she was one of the members of the team! I asked her if she could look through my feed and give me honest feed back. Long story short I hopped on a plane 3 weeks later and did a showcase with SFW Vancouver. That was the best impulsive decision I ever made.
3 Descriptive words about your business.
Fun, loving, vibrant
What is something you do to cope with the stress of being an entrepreneur?
Watch a funny movie, play with my kids, workout.
Tell our audience about your experience working with FASH PR – in what capacity have we worked together, how have we made a difference, what do you think of the results (so far…if they are ongoing).
When I met Fash PR, I was in a bind with another web designer. I was so upset with the work, there was so much miscommunication, on top of that the WD couldn’t do certain things I would need done to the website. Thankfully, when I told FASH PR what was going on and they took charge and did an amazing job with what I was looking for! They went above and beyond my expectations. They also gave me tips and tricks for my branding and I am so grateful to have met them and be able to use their services. I will be using them again for sure!
Thank you Jenan for the amazing interview!
Jodi xx
Co-Founder, FASH PR