Yvonne Forman of Houston, Texas, is a budding fashion designer and a trailblazer fusing imagination with commercial sense. While studying for her Bachelor of Business Administration degree with an emphasis in accounting at Jarvis Christian University, Forman has skillfully combined her two interests for design and finance as CEO and creative director of Vv Design Production. 

Forman discovered her dual calling in math and the arts early, a realization sparked by a pivotal conversation with her mother at the tender age of seven. “I was surprised at the time to learn that you can create a career out of fashion design. It’s funny how pursuing art, other than music, as a career instead of a hobby was a foreign concept to me before that conversation,” she recalls. This epiphany laid the groundwork for Forman’s ambitious journey in the fashion world.

Self-taught and Determined

Since launching Vv Fashion Production in 2013, Forman has faced her fair share of challenges. She learned how to sew and design independently, using vlogs, internet resources, and constant trial and error to become an expert. Despite limited access to professional training, Forman was determined to advance in the field. 

Vv Fashion Production prioritizes community involvement and sustainability. Forman’s ability to adapt and develop under challenging conditions was proven during the COVID-19 pandemic when the brand became significantly proactive by creating customized face masks with medical-grade filtration. She also partnered with Houston Independent School District’s Limitless Fashion Boutique to provide a stage for up-and-coming fashion designers to shine.

One of Forman’s proudest moments was presenting her designs to a panel of influential investors, including co-owners of the Houston Astros MLB team and rapper Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson. 

Forman says her HBCU experience has greatly influenced her adaptability and tenacity when considering her time at Jarvis Christian. She understands the value of social responsibility and community involvement through her work as a resident assistant and as president of the Zeta Delta chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.. 

Forman plans to present her first official collection under Vv Fashion Production in the near future. What would she advise aspiring business owners? Use every resource at your disposal, embrace change with adaptability and resilience, and always “walk by faith, not by sight.”