Rising Stars: Meet Dekyra Jones

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dekyra Jones.

Hi Dekyra, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I’m a native Memphian, a student at the University of Memphis by day, and Darre’ Dior Collections business owner any other chance I get. Starting my collegiate journey as a Fashion and Merchandising was always a dream of mine from a young age. I watched my mother with her modeling agency and I knew I loved fashion. Growing up, it was hard to find trendy and cute clothing in my size and I knew that I needed to do something about it.

In 2019, starting at the University of Memphis I knew it was time for me to pursue the goals I’ve always had. At the age of 19, while attending a campus event, I fainted and was rushed to the hospital. After multiple tests, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). My world had been completely flipped around at the start of the beginning of the best part. Due to extended hospital stays and treatment, I decided to take a semester off from school to focus on her health. With more time on my hands and maintaining monthly treatments, I was able to focus on my first love: fashion.

I started the research and work to begin Darrie Dior Collections, with the additional time I was able to relaunch after learning from so many mistakes. Focusing on my business gave me something to throw myself into as I had to adjust to so many changes in my life. The support of my family helped me to keep a level head and continue forward. I began to focus more on prayer, affirmations and became very self-aware.

With the relaunch of my business and returning to school, I continued monthly treatments to keep my health stable. It was tough in the beginning however I learned how to efficiently manage treatment and full-time business and school. In December 2022, I’ll be graduating from the University Of Memphis with the hopes of expanding my online boutique to a storefront and offering more products and services to the public.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I wish. The road has not been all smooth but I am grateful. Of course, my health taking a major turn was so unexpected, however, it helped me to realize that I have to continue to push for my goals. I took a semester off from school to focus on my health and treatments; the time away allowed me to focus on my Darre Dior Collections and the vision.

During that time, I had a few hiccups with finding my target audience and how to reach them. Also, had a few trials and errors with product quality. All these things helped me to dissect how I wanted to run and execute my business. I believe for anyone starting a business, the biggest struggle is trying to be so perfect that it stalls your progress in the business.

I became comfortable with trying something, assessing, and trying again.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Darre’ Dior Collections specializes in quality and trendy women’s clothing for curvy women (occasionally small-large women’s clothing). Darre’ Dior is a fashion and lifestyle brand that creates uniqueness, sexiness, and boldness despite the size. I am most proud of achieving my goals despite the obstacles I’ve faced with being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.

Darre’ Dior Collections is now thriving due to my persistence and learning that proof is in the progress and not giving up despite life’s challenges. What sets Darre’ Dior apart from others.

I’m very hands-on with my customers, I provide my clients with excellent customer service with a personal touch. This includes providing style advice as to their stylist. Customizing to their fit, lifestyle, and budget. I enjoy helping my clients create the most suitable clothes and accessories that fit the clients’ body types and individual needs.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
The individuals that deserve all credit for my success are first and foremost my family.

They’ve tremendously supported my goals and business since day one. Once I was diagnosed with MS they rallied behind me like never before. My mother most definitely inspired my business mind and love of fashion and beauty. She also taught me about not giving up and keeping a hustle.

Others include the team of doctors and support staff that continue to help me with ongoing treatment as well as my Univ of Memphis instructors.

Contact Info:

• Email: darrediorb@gmail.com
• Website: www.darrediorcollections.com
• Instagram: @darrediorcollections
• Facebook: darre

Image Credits
Madelyn Bush- MBPhactory