Today we’d like to introduce you to Imani Ezell
Hi Imani, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
When I was about 4 years old, my dad passed and then it was just me and my mom. Both of my parents were in the military, Airforce to be exact. and put in my summer camps on base. One year, when I was about 5-6 years old I was at summer camp and a lady/camp counselor gathered me and a few girls to sew. We learned how to thread the machine and we made pillows and skirts with an elastic waistband. After that experience, I never touched a sewing machine again until I was in 8th grade. For christmas that year, I asked for a sewing machine and I got exactly that. It was a Singer, perfect for beginners. In between that time from first learning, I was a competitive gymnast and dancer. I’ve always loved the arts but I feel that fashion and sewing came to me and chose me. Once I was a junior in high school, it was time to think about life after. My loving militant mother gave me TWO options, military or college. I chose the college route only after finding out that there were schools for fashion design. I must have been living under a rock because none of it made sense or was something I thought about until then.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has definitely not been an easy road. There were and are still many obstacles that get in my way. However, that’s life. If it wasn’t for my relationship with God and choosing to do life with him, I would not be here today. Life is never going to be easy, but God makes you feel everything is possible and keeps you calm amongst the storm. All of this is easier said than done and my relationship with God started through my mother, grandmother, and family, growing up and going to church every Sunday. However, there’s a point in life you get to where you now have to work for the relationship with God and make sure He is the center of everything you do. My mom always tell me, “Put God first and trust him with all your heart.” I grew up with a family of powerful women who made a way and hustled no matter what. However, they all say the couldn’t have done it without help from each other and God.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Mademoiselle Imani Ezell is the designer, the seamstress, and the brand. Mademoiselle Ezell is currently a student at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and will be receiving her B.F.A. in Fashion Design in 2025. When Mademoiselle was a senior in high school, she promised to take her business more serious. Since then, she’s discovered her love for the process of creating custom pieces.
EZELL is a luxury and couture clothing brand providing custom handmade pieces. Each ‘EZELL’ garment is made to order. This gives clients the luxury of receiving garments tailored to fit their specific measurements. Imani Ezell is a multifaceted artist and uses her art and passions to create pathways and opportunities throughout her life.
I am known for being a custom designer. During my senior year of high school, I vowed to take my business more seriously. I started with making a cardigan, a 2 piece satin set, then 4 prom dresses that year. Once I moved to Georgia for college, I still kept up with my business but of course, COVID had other plans. I kept gaining clients but, I never turned anyone down. I love being challenged and the feeling after completing a garment from start to finish with a happy client is an ego booster!
I am most proud of my mini collection, titled Audacity, I recently showed in the Hidden Essence fashion show hosted by Symiah Saulsberry. We met while working at David’s Bridal together. I was given the opportunity to showcase my first collection on the runway! I believe what sets me apart from others is my huge personality and how transparent I am. I am like an onion, there are several layers to me and each layer leaves you wanting to find out more. What sets me apart is my childlike spirit. I am always wanting to learn more and I am my only competition (trust me she’s a lot). I always want to be better than the year or collection before.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory would have to be family vacations. I absolutely love to travel and that’s something my mom instilled in me at a young age. Exploring and seeing the world. Another favorite memory are the nicknames my parents had for me. My mom called me Lulu and my dad called me pumpkin. I also cherish the moments when it was just me and my mom, we had each other. However, after my sister came along it was amazing being in the household with all women.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ezellximaniezell.wixsite.com/my-site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imaniezell/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaniezell3738/videos
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/ezellbyimaniezell/
