10 minute read
ZETAYE - FEMINITY WITH SOPHISTICATION
Taunya Zilkie ZETAYE Designer & Co-Founder Photo: Bobby Rachpoot
In this issue, QP FASHION MAGAZINE is thrilled to present an exclusive interview with Taunya Zilkie , the co-founder of ZETAYE , a luxury fashion brand that exudes bold sophistication and celebrates femininity. With a passion for style that has been brewing for years, Taunya officially brought ZETAYE to life in 2022, inspired by her love for high-quality, statementmaking garments. Her approach to fashion is deeply rooted in her personal sense of creativity, drawing from her experiences in the arts and the vibrant fashion scene of Los Angeles .
In our conversation, Taunya shares insights into the essence of the ZETAYE woman—one who embodies strength, confidence, and elegance, while seamlessly blending glamour with comfort. From her journey in design to her commitment to sustainability and ethical production, Taunya gives us an inside look into what makes ZETAYE a truly unique and luxurious brand.
PRODUCTION: STRAW HAT PRODUCTIONS @strawhat_productions
FASHION STYLIST: MADISON DIXON @madisondixonstylist
MAKEUP ARTIST: SUSAN ZEYTUNTSYAN @susanzeymua
DESIGNER: ZETAYE @zetaye.thelabel
Taunya, what inspired you to cofound ZETAYE and bring this vision to life?
A fashion line had been forming in the back of my mind for quite some time. I have always loved clothes and treated shopping and styling myself and my family and friends like it was my job! In 2022, with all the changes in the world, it became clear to me that it was time to pursue this passion. When I brought the idea to my co-founder - who has extensive experience in business but wishes to stay in the background - he encouraged me to think even bigger and bolder and together we developed a plan. His wisdom and support are truly the foundation and vehicle moving this vision to reality.
How would you describe the ZETAYE woman, and what kind of lifestyle do you envision for her?
I envision that the ZETAYE woman isn't afraid to dress up and make a tasteful statement. She loves feeling feminine and strong, pretty and confident, sexy but classy. She has a discerning fashion eye and loves a little glamour. A day in her life may consist of a career in the corporate world or running her household, but wherever she shows up, she likes a little polish to her look. She may like to dress a little high/low, mixing in some designer with some more affordable items, but overall appreciates quality pieces in her wardrobe.
Can you tell us more about the process of creating the ZETAYE collections, from initial concept to final product?
It was about two years from start to launch. For my first collection, essentially, I designed the wardrobe that I, myself, wanted for Fall/Winter that I couldn’t find in the stores. I brought my sketches to a development company in LA . They were instrumental in helping me source fabrics and trims and then create my patterns. After the patterns were done and the samples perfected, I found a manufacturer here in Los Angeles and by August 2024, we were ready to ship! That might sound simple, but it was so much work and there were many sleepless nights along the way stressing over design details or finding the right resource for each step of the process! But I loved it all and I’m so grateful for all the amazing people I was able to work with in the process!
What role does Los Angeles play in shaping the identity of ZETAYE, given that all your pieces are designed and made there?
Los Angeles is very adventurous in its fashion, it appreciates originality and taste. I have always loved the ‘fashion forward’ mindset of this city, it has definitely allowed me to have freedom in that expression. From a development standpoint, all the resources to bring this collection to life are right here in this city. I’m very proud that we are made in America , specifically Los Angeles and I would like to continue to use American resources as much as possible!
How do you ensure that your garments are both luxurious and comfortable, balancing elegance with wearability?
I put every sample on myself and my closest friends multiple times. If it isn’t comfortable, if the zipper is too hard to get up, if the dress is too hard to get on, if the fabric feels scratchy… I love the feedback and try to make sure we get it just right. I’m a perfectionist and I don’t like to cut corners. The clothes must look gorgeous but also be comfortable enough to go through the day or night and move with you in a flattering way.
Of course, we can’t be all things to all people, but we aim to address the details that I think are important to women and make a purchase worth the investment.
In your opinion, what sets ZETAYE apart from other luxury fashion brands?
I have immense admiration for so many fashion brands and designers! They inspire me with their creativity and ingenuity. But perhaps, ZETAYE is special because I took exceptional care to address the little details that I feel are often overlooked in women's fashion. I really tried to bring together comfort, functionality, quality and great design with my unique vision for each style.
Your pieces are described as "statementmaking showstoppers." Could you share a bit about how you incorporate bold design elements into your collections?
In my own personal style, I always like a little something, even a small detail that makes a garment or an outfit unique. For example, I love gold hardware and I've used a lot of that in the FW24 collection, such as gold chrome snaps, buttons and oversized zippers. I believe it adds a chic touch of elegance to an outfit and makes a simple silhouette something special that stands out in a crowd.
How important is sustainability to ZETAYE, and how do you approach it in your design and production processes?
To me, sustainability starts with people, our most important resource. Investing in and valuing great people are the building blocks of a great company and will reflect in our product. As a small company, we are just beginning to build our team, but it is our goal to create a place where people can truly thrive. With regards to our beautiful earth, we are committed to being as environmentally respectful as we can with what is in our control. This is an evolving mission to be developed as we grow.
How does your personal journey in the creative arts inform your approach to fashion design?
My personal journey in the creative arts, whether it through acting, music, writing, graphic design, etc., has allowed me to continually grow and strengthen my creative ‘muscles’, for lack of a better word. It has allowed me to build my confidence and trust in my artistry and my own individuality so that I am better able to express my vision and walk in my purpose.
Can you elaborate on the importance of faith and determination in building ZETAYE?
My faith in God is my foundation and guiding light in everything I do. I try to make sure that in all things I am following God and that I’m able to respond to His direction and that my own will isn’t getting in the way. God is the ultimate artist and creator of all things so I know that anything beautiful comes from Him, I just want to be a vessel. My faith keeps me grounded and stable no matter what is happening in the world or in my life personally or professionally. I know that He’s in control and that gives me peace.
What does “Celebrating You” mean to you and how is this ethos reflected in your brand?
“Celebrating You” is a statement that everyone is valuable and made in the image of God and worthy of celebration. There is so much pain and suffering in the world today, even people that seem to have it all together are questioning the value and purpose of their life. And I think if everyone knew how important their life is to their Creator maybe there would be, a little less suffering. If only in the smallest, most insignificant way, wearing a ZETAYE garment can make someone feel their beauty and value, that fills my heart.
How do you want women to feel when they wear ZETAYE pieces?
I want women to feel beautiful, glamourous, and comfortable! I want them to feel like they are wearing something special that flatters and attracts attention in the best way. And if a woman feels beautiful on the outside, perhaps that will contribute to her feeling confident and purposeful on the inside.
Who or what are your biggest influences in the fashion world, both past and present?
When I started buying fashion magazines at about 12 years old, I would read them cover to cover. It was the era of the supermodels, and I was so captivated by the glamour and the fun, bold, inventive fashion of the 80s and 90s. I also loved movies from the Golden Age of Hollywood and how the woman dressed in the 50s and 60s with such polish and poise. And in my family, the women were always well dressed and perfectly accessorized!
Currently, I am loving some of the ingenuity I'm seeing in fashion with the use of interesting hardware pieces and 3 dimensional elements that are still very wearable in the real world. I love unique fabrics and surprising details that don't overwhelm the wearer. I'm seeing a lot of adventurousness in this way, especially in many of the newer, emerging designers and it totally inspires me!
How do you approach innovation in fashion while staying true to ZETAYE's glamorous and feminine aesthetic?
My personal style and vision for ZETAYE is a healthy balance of both. To be simultaneously timeless and trend driven, I believe, will keep the designs fresh but wearable year after year. Keeping the focus on enhancing what makes a woman look and feel beautiful and adapting the trends or innovations to work around that is my goal. Personally, I find it so fun to see what new esthetics and styles and take off but not all trends are necessarily flattering. Femininity is so beautiful in and of itself. I want my designs to always lean into that beauty first and let the woman shine through.
Is there a particular person—celebrity or otherwise—who you dream of dressing in ZETAYE, and why?
If I had could go back in time…. Grace Kelly, Jackie Kennedy, Princes Di … They are the epitome of style, strength, beauty, and grace!
What are your hopes for the future of ZETAYE, and where do you see the brand heading in the next few years?
I hope to continue to grow, get more creative and design pieces that people love to wear repeatedly. I want to build a company where people enjoy working. I want to be able to contribute to the community beyond just making clothes. At some point, I envision that the brand will expand into other categories. You never know… I’m up for whatever God has in His plan!
