Layla-joy Williams is the incredible designer behind the footwear brand LAYLAJOY. She let us ask her a few questions where she gives a few tips for aspiring designers and gave us the deets on her jewelry collection collaboration with Veronica Moore. Check it out below!
iG: Who is Layla-joy and when did you realize that you wanted to be a footwear designer?
LJ: Layla-joy is a woman who is passionate about life and her life’s passion of designing. She’s an amalgam of creative energy, curiosity and focused intensity and definitely a woman who never stops moving. In terms of my interest in footwear design, that started during my Junior year of college at the Pratt Institute. I was inspired by a classmate who had been recruited to work for a footwear company. His experience encouraged a shift in focus from architecture to my industrial design major and a segue to shoe design. I pretty much became completely fascinated with the idea of creating great shoes. The rest is history.
iG: What were some of the challenges you faced during your journey?
LJ: There were many but none that were insurmountable. For example, being a woman of color in an industry with too few of us was interesting. But then again, I thrive on challenges.
iG: What does inner glam mean to you and how does that definition align with your brand?
LJ: Inner glam is that invisible and unique expression within each of us that translates, if one is brave enough, into something exceptional. The LAYLAJOY brand runs the gamut; it caters to that supremely confident, discerning woman who wants it all – a look that is sophisticated, stylish, and fun.
iG: Why is it important for women, particularly African American women, to go after their dreams and make a difference; especially in the fashion industry from a designing perspective?
LJ: In an industry predominately run by men all women need to be assertive, make their presence felt without being intimidated. African American women are increasingly on the rise, and bring a particular sensibility to the table. The general absence of their reflection should actually be a spur to their ambitions as they bring a different interpretation of color, style and flair.
iG: What advice would you give to someone looking to break into this industry, particularly as a designer?
LJ: Internships are key. I recommend exposure to a variety of brands, absorbing the trends and market in general, and then sharing ideas with others in the field. Network as much as possible.
iG: So let’s talk about your jewelry collection collaboration LAYLAJOY by Veronica Moore, how did that come about?
LJ: Yes, let’s! Another passion of mine, I’ve been a collector of the more exotic jewelry pieces gathered in my travels near and far. And Veronica, whom I’ve known for many years, is a beautiful designer with a keen eye for the wonderfully bold, dramatic pieces. It occurred to me, a jewelry line is something I’ve always wanted to feature within my brand, so why not create it with someone who inspires me.
iG: What’s the theme going for this collection and what can we expect in the future? 
LJ: We highlight the beauty of the natural. All the pieces incorporate precious metals, gemstones and earthly elements. The sentiment of natural beauty aligns overall with the LAYLAJOY brand as I strive to design pieces that are timeless and always elegant and chic. We can expect even more fascinating pieces in the future.
iG: What were some of the design elements from a designer/consumer standpoint did you want to make sure was included in this collection?
LJ:Essential for me was having superlative comfort and wearability (sic), beautiful silhouettes and interesting embellishments that translate through varying occasions and seasons. In a word, timeless.
iG: What are some of the standout pieces and styles that you absolutely love and are must-haves?
LJ: Oh I’m loving the hand woven metal Chloe ring (top left) and Minka cuff (right side), statement pieces that are organic, earthy and beautifully intricate. Substantive without being heavy and clumsy.
Visit LAYLAJOY on the web to shop fabulous shoes, accessories and more, plus be sure to follow them on Facebook and Twitter!
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