Life & Work with Karis Battle

Today we’d like to introduce you to Karis Battle.

Hi Karis, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey in fashion began when I understood that it was more than just selecting an outfit—it was a powerful form of self-expression. Growing up, I was inspired by my mom, a creative genius who could craft anything imaginable. As a child, I was always at her side, absorbing every bit of her creativity. This early fascination led me to NC A&T State University, where I quickly became known as the go-to fashionista, styling and shopping for my friends.

Fast forward to today, with over a decade of experience in the fashion industry, I have taken on various roles—from leading costume design projects for film and television to contributing as a Fashion and Beauty Editor for several publications. My academic path included graduating with honors in Fashion Marketing from The Art Institute and earning an MA with honors in Fashion Journalism from the Academy of Art University.

What distinguishes me is my unique approach to storytelling through fashion. Whether it’s bringing a historical era to life, redesigning garments, or crafting a themed look, I find joy in creating narratives through fashion and beauty. I have a special affinity for vintage creations, and my vibrant personality is evident in everything I do. I love pushing the envelope and helping others uncover new aspects of their identities through fashion. Believe in my vision, and together, we’ll create something extraordinary.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, but every challenge has been a valuable learning experience that shaped my career. One of the early struggles was breaking into the fashion industry, which is notoriously competitive. I had to work incredibly hard to get my foot in the door, often taking on internships and trade for profit gigs to build my portfolio.

Another significant challenge was balancing creativity with commercial demands. In the beginning, I found it difficult to merge my artistic vision with the practical needs of clients and employers. Over time, I learned to navigate these waters, finding a harmonious balance that allowed me to stay true to my creative instincts while meeting the expectations of those I worked with.

There were also moments of self-doubt, especially when transitioning to new roles or taking on larger projects. For instance, stepping into Costume Design for film and TV was overwhelming at first. However, each project taught me something new, and I grew more confident in my abilities with every success and challange.

Despite these challenges, my passion for fashion and storytelling has kept me motivated. Each hurdle has made me more resilient and adaptable, ultimately enriching my journey and making my successes all the more rewarding.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m passionate about fashion and storytelling, and my work spans a variety of roles within the fashion industry. I specialize in costume design for film and TV, where I help bring characters to life through their wardrobe. Additionally, I contribute as a Fashion and Beauty Editor for multiple publications, providing insights and trends that inspire and educate readers.

One of my proudest accomplishments is my work as a Costume Designer for a feature film, where I’ve had the opportunity to create unique and memorable looks that enhanced the storytelling. These projects allowed me to combine my love for vintage fashion with contemporary design, creating a visual narrative that resonated with audiences. My first feature film, Young King, world premiere took place at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) in Miami in June 2024.

What sets me apart from others is my unique approach to fashion as a form of storytelling. I don’t just create outfits; I weave narratives through my designs, whether it’s for a film, a photo shoot, or an editorial piece. My ability to blend historical influences with modern trends gives my work a distinctive edge.

Additionally, my charasmatic personality and dedication to pushing creative boundaries help me connect with clients and collaborators on a deeper level. I love helping others discover new facets of their identities through fashion, and I’m always exploring new ways to innovate and inspire.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Risk-taking is an essential part of growth and innovation, especially in the fashion industry. While I wouldn’t classify myself as a natural risk-taker, I’ve learned that embracing risk is necessary to achieve meaningful progress and creativity.

One major risk I took in the past was transitioning from a steady job to freelance work in costume design for film and TV. Not having the security of a stable income was stressful, but I knew that pursuing my passion required stepping out of my comfort zone. This move allowed me to work on feature films, which have become some of my proudest achievements. It was a risk that paid off by opening new doors and expanding my creative horizons.

Another significant risk was launching my blog, “Everything 24 Karis,” which involved putting my ideas and perspectives out into the public sphere. There was a fear of criticism and failure, but I believed in my vision and wanted to create a platform that celebrates fashion, beauty, and Black culture. This venture was incredibly rewarding, allowing me to connect with a wider audience and make a positive impact.

For me, risk-taking is about weighing potential rewards against possible setbacks and being willing to face uncertainty for the sake of growth. I believe that calculated risks, where you consider the pros and cons but still take a leap of faith, are essential for pushing boundaries and achieving success. Each risk I’ve taken has taught me valuable lessons and helped shape my career in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.karisbattle.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everything24karis
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karisbattle/
• Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10909342/

Image Credits
Jason Prince Michael Todero Grace Huang