Daring designs . . . Forbidden Fantasies just for the ladies

From childhood it was always Krystle Headley’s dream to become a Fashion Designer, but “life happened”.  In 2018, as fate would have she found herself unable to carry out her normal work duties due to illness. 

“Growing up I wanted to become a fashion designer. I used to walk around with my little sketch pads sketching all day. I even took the necessary subject in CXC [Caribbean Examination Council] for this career but life has its way of not giving you what you want when you want it. 

“So that dream died the minute I became a young adult and had to do something more realistic at the time something that would pay the bills at hand. After a while I started selling clothing as I owned a store,” she told Today’s Fashion. 

It was while at home with nothing but time and thoughts on her hand that Krystle decided to revisit her childhood idea and make her dream a reality.
“In 2018 I got Ill and as a result of my illness, I was told by my doctor that I was unfit to be in my previous work environment until I was cleared by him. My recovery process could have possibly taken months. That did not sit well with me I had bills to pay so I started thinking what could I do from home that would generate some form of income until I was cleared. And it just came to me. 

She continued: “I’ve always had a machine for personal purposes. So I thought why not make exotic wears? I know a lot of ladies that would be interested in purchasing these wear so it made sense. Only problem was I had no idea how I was going do it I had no training beyond my high school years but I know I’ve never wanted to do anything and not succeed so I was going to be fine.

“I got a friend of mine which is a seamstress (Alison Wilson) to cut me out some basic patterns on how to construct a swimwear, I watched Youtube and I learn. Luckily for me after a while, I developed a skill of being able to just look at a design and figure out exactly how to construct it. I’m mostly self-taught,” the designer said.

Now Krystle is the owner of Forbidden Fantasies which she operates from her home in Atlantic Shores, Christ Church. While she makes the occasional daily outfit she specialises making exotic wear. 

“Majority of my clientele are very confident about their feminine side. Others see something they like and want to get in touch with their feminine side and I enjoy catering to that. My exotic wear gives my clients a different kind of sexy. And I love seeing my customers behaving and feeling sexy in them.” 

The 33-year-old, who studied Business Management at Barbados Institute of Management and Productivity (BIMAP) said although she had initial issues with the collection of the payment she has no regrets. She has since implemented a strict payment policy. 

“I have absolutely no regret. I’ve ventured in numerous businesses and this is by far the most fulfilling job I’ve ever done. It doesn’t even feel like a job. I truly feel like this is what I was destined to do!”

Krystle admits she is motivated by her customer’s satisfaction. 

“The feeling I get when someone purchases an item from me wears it n then message me and tell me how pleased they are is priceless. It’s motivating and it gives me a sense of accomplishment. I have a nick for fashion so most times I visualize things in my head. If I’m making something for someone specific I think about the person’s body type and their personality and then I create something in my mind. It always works! Also, I use other people’s design as motivation to create my own.”

The small business owner sells to both a local and an overseas clientele. 

“There are times work is too much for me. Very rare I get help. I usually get literally two hours of sleep for days until the work is finish.”  

 While she credits customer endorsement and the heavy use of social media for helping with the growth of her business she still wants to expand in the future.

“I see my business expanding into a factory. My goal is to provide my service both regionally and internationally.”

The entrepreneur has some advice for budding designers.

“Go for it! The business is big enough for everyone. The world is evolving and there always room for fresh ideas” she said.

To unwind, I would usually listen to music and relax. In her downtime, Krystle enjoys a glass or two of wine and watching Netflix. 

At the end of the day though, her immediate family and the success of her business means the world to her. (IMC)