Learn about the bold fall-winter collection for her clothing label, Aysha louise
“Women should wear capes,” the designer, stylist, and Charleston native declares, referring to her fall 2020 collection, which features the elevated outerwear, as well as her perspective that women are smart, multitasking warriors whose wardrobes should make a bold statement. The Savannah College of Art & Design fashion grad, who honed her skills as a stylist for Ralph Lauren in New York and later as a product manager and technical designer in Los Angeles, returned to the Holy City to start her brand, Aysha louise, which launched in September 2019. Here, she talks about her “edgy-yet-sophisticated” style and enjoying the holidays
Aysha louise cape ($515)
Q How do you style your favorite item from your collection?
A The “Denim Sweat Jacket” is the ultimate double agent. It has the edge appeal, but it also can be a statement piece for a sophisticated look. I wear it with our knit dresses or with all black, paired with anything from sneakers to clear stilettos.
Q Do you have a signature accessory?
A Big gold hoop earrings from JLANI Jewels, a Black-owned brand that is eco-friendly, sustainable, and affordable—which is great because I always seem to lose one!
Q Which essential item in your closet will you keep forever?
A Timeless Ralph Lauren pieces I acquired while working as a stylist at their New York flagship store, including a double-breasted, satin lapel tux jacket and a trench coat
Q Who is your style icon?
A I look to the work of stylists and designers I admire because I see them as the true creators making it happen. I like to see more than one side of style and celebrities who slay in both “street” and “glam” and can blend the two well, such as Rihanna, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Beyonce.
Q What are your plans for Thanksgiving?
A Thanksgiving will be spent with family. It’s such a treat because my sister, April Robinson, is a chef. I’m there to savor every bite!
Q Where are your favorite local stores for holiday shopping?
A Charleston Candle Company makes great scented candles. I love their “East Bay Bourbon Cider.” Candles are timeless; they create a sense of warmth and tranquility, which is always in style.
Q Tell us about your face masks.
A Our “Melanated Masks” have been quite popular. We sell them in six hues for any skin tone and are expanding to offer more colors and styles.
Q Describe your skin care routine.
A I use organic and clean skin care and makeup as much as possible. I’m all about being healthy inside and out. I’ve been using Eminence products for a long time because they are gentle on my skin yet effective. I love their “Stone Crop Spray.” It balances my skin’s hydration and unevenness and has healing ingredients to calm irritation and blemishes. I use it year-round.
