All The Fly Questions With: Designer Ashley Bohanon

Photo: Bohanon&Co.

Ashley Bohanon (gold pants) and Bohanon&Co. models.

Ashley Bohanon is the creative director and designer for her eponymous fashion line Bohanan & Co. based out of Cleveland, Ohio. Designing since high school, the former model turned designer had a stellar year in 2016, showcasing her luxury women's wear in countless fashion shows across the state. Bohanon's glam separates stand out on their own and were styled in so many different ways that the same pieces looked fresh and new every time I saw them on various runways and in photo shoots. Ashley took the time out to answer a few Fly Questions  via email...

WHAT DO YOU DO AND HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START?
​I’m the Creative Director and Designer of Bohanon & Co., a luxury womenswear label. I decided to start the brand in June 2016 by showing my summer collection at the Battle of the Teal Talent Show. From there, I continued to present my collections at local fashion events.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DESIGNING?
​I started the brand in the summer of 2016. I studied Fashion Design at Ursuline College where I obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree in 2013. The brand is new but I’ve been designing since high school.  Until now, I didn’t feel comfortable giving myself the title of “Designer”
WHEN DID YOU GET YOUR “BIG BREAK”?
I feel like the “Break” I got was in June 2016 when I presented my collection at the Battle of the Teal Talent show. That show broke the ice for me and helped me get over my fears. Each event or show after that has done the same for me. I’m creating buzz around Bohanon & Co. I’m also learning the business and the market. I don’t feel like I got my “big break” just yet.

Fashion designer Ashley Bohanon with model

Bohanon&Co

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WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO DRESS?
I would love to dress Laura Govan, Teyana Taylor, Kylie Jenner, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, and Anna Dello Russo. These women have impeccable style, a lot of grace, and embody seduction.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR A SHOW?
Preparing for a show and designing a collection requires organization. That’s key. Knowing what’s going on in the industry and your market is vital as well to ensure that the message you’re trying to portray gets across.
WHAT ARE YOUR GO TO PIECES?
I love a pair of skinny’s (jeans or pants), a tailored blazer, a pair of heels, mascara, and a bold lip.

Finishing touches at the Haute Ohio fashion show

Model at last year's Breast Cancer Survivor Fashion Show

DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?
My style is based on my mood. Sometimes I go for a relaxed look with an oversized top and skinny’s, or sometimes I get sexy with bodycon pieces. Either way, my look is always effortless.
FAVE DESIGNER OR FASHION HOUSE?
I have so many…Marc Jacobs and Alessandro Michele are creative geniuses. Dontella Versace is an icon. I’m really feeling Vetements right now because they are changing the way women dress and bringing something different to the fashion industry. Zuhair Murad is an all-time favorite because the house always brings elegance and glamour.
WHO ARE YOUR TOP 5 STYLE ICONS?
​Sarah Jessica Parker
Rihanna
Ginger from the movie Casino
Laura Govan
Wendy Williams

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Bohanon model/Haute Ohio Fashion Show

Bohanon model/Survivor Fashion Show

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IS THERE A MOVIE OR VIDEO THAT YOU REALLY LOVE THE FASHION?
My all-time favs:
The Devil Wears Prada
The First Wives Club
Casino
WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOU?
Continual building of Bohanon & Co.’s foundation while designing my spring collection that will launch in April.
WHERE CAN WE FIND OUT MORE ABOUT YOU AND YOUR WORK?
IG @BOHANON.CO
TW @BOHANON_CO
FB: BOHANON & CO.
And shop www.etsy.com/shop/BohanonAndCo

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