Justin Ryan’s journey in the fashion industry has been a rollercoaster ride filled with passion, creativity, and resilience. From his humble beginnings in high school to landing a clothing deal in New York City, Ryan’s love for fashion has always been at the forefront of his endeavors. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought about unexpected challenges that forced him to pivot and adapt to a new path.
Ryan’s interest in fashion sparked during his junior year at Edgewood High School when he acquired his first sewing machine and taught himself how to use it through online tutorials. His unique approach to upcycling thrifted garments into high-end streetwear designs not only showcases his creativity but also reflects his commitment to sustainability in the fashion industry. Each piece he creates is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, meticulously crafted to perfection.
In 2020, Ryan’s dream of making it big in the fashion industry took a hit when the pandemic forced him to leave New York City and return to Baltimore. Despite the setbacks, Ryan remained determined to pursue his passion and decided to enlist in the Army for stability and future opportunities. Now stationed at Fort Shafter, Hawaii, as an all-wheeled mechanic, Ryan continues to channel his creativity and passion for fashion in new ways.
While the military may not have been Ryan’s initial career choice, it has provided him with a unique platform to blend his love for fashion with Army-inspired elements in his designs. By incorporating Army textiles and colors into his streetwear creations, Ryan has found a way to stay connected to his roots while exploring new avenues for his designs.
Living in Hawaii has also sparked new inspiration for Ryan, leading him to explore designing bikinis and women’s clothing in addition to his signature jeans and hoodies. His newfound partnership with his wife, Spc. Kayla Francisco, who shares his passion for modeling and content creation, has further fueled his creative pursuits. Together, they form a dynamic duo, with Francisco modeling Ryan’s designs and supporting his vision for a successful fashion career.
Looking ahead, Ryan’s ultimate goal is to become a creative director for his own brand and see his designs worn by the masses. With a rich history of military-inspired trends in the fashion industry, Ryan’s firsthand experience as a military veteran designer sets him apart and positions him for success in the competitive world of fashion.
As Ryan continues to navigate his dual roles as a soldier and a designer, his story serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and adaptation in pursuing one’s dreams. With his innovative approach to sustainable fashion and his unwavering commitment to creativity, Justin Ryan is poised to make a lasting impact in the fashion industry and beyond.