by Ashleigh Lackey

Nissa New York is a fashion brand by Amanda Hoffman, a senior at FIT, that specializes in bold colors and offers custom sizing. We sat down with Amanda for the final installment of our Women’s History Month interview series.

CUFS: Tell us a bit about your fashion background and your time at FIT.

Amanda: I always knew that I wanted to go to school for fashion design. When I was in middle school I sold bandana tops on Etsy. I made my prom dresses, too. I always wanted a business. FIT was my dream school. I learned how to draw fashion illustrations and drape garments, with tutors, in order to apply to the fashion design program. When I got accepted into the program I was very grateful. I am now in my last semester at FIT and it has taught me so much. I truly would not be where am I today without my professors and what I’ve learned there. I came into FIT with little knowledge about the real production of clothing but I knew that I loved fashion. Now, after 4 years, I have my own business and have had great internship opportunities. The connections that I have made and skills that I have learned have shaped me into who I am today.

C: What inspired you to start Nissa New York?

A: Nissa New York has had many names and has taken on many forms. When I was very young I called my brand “Nissa Originals”. Halfway through college I decided the brand needed an update. At the time I was just posting my school projects, not products to buy. This was during a time that I did not take my brand very seriously. Once covid hit, I had a lot more time on my hands. I decided that I wanted to be productive. I wanted to rebrand Nissa Originals to Nissa New York and I wanted to sell clothing that I made in my college apartment bedroom, a real NYC shoe box. This time that I had inspired me to research ways to grow the brand and it was all that I thought about. 

C: How do you find your inspiration for new collections? What inspires you most in general?

A: I find inspiration by color and warm weather places. These are the things that make me most happy. The feeling of wearing a colorful outfit and feeling confident in it is so important to me. Usually when I design an outfit, I think of what I would want to wear. I never produce something that I wouldn’t wear myself. 

C: How do you find time to keep up with your studies at FIT while running your business?

A: Running a business while in school is very challenging. Although I am good at managing my time, it can be hard to keep up. I am designing my thesis collection this semester and I try to prioritize it during the week as much as I can. Friday’s and Saturday’s are for my business. I do all of my sewing and meetings with interns on those days. Although this is my schedule, I have emails and calls throughout the week with overseas manufacturers. It’s definitely a balancing act. Fortunately it doesn’t feel like work to me because I love what I’m doing. 

C: Describe your brand in 3 words.

A: Color, kitschy, fun

C: What was the experience of starting a female owned business like?

A: My experience starting a woman owned business so far has been great. My followers, friends, and family have all been extremely supportive. They all have known that is what I have always wanted to do for my career. Social media is especially supportive of a woman starting a business. I truly appreciate everyone on social media supporting me. 

C: What were your greatest obstacles in founding Nissa New York?

A: I think that the greatest obstacle for me so far is being able to put in as much time as I need to for the brand. With thesis happening at the same time, this has been my most difficult semester yet. Going to school full time and starting a business at the same time is very difficult. 

C: Have you found that there is a supportive community for female owned brands and small businesses?

A: There is absolutely a great community for small woman owned businesses. On social media, I have found different niches where everyone supports each other and buys each other’s products. It is really a great group to be a part of. I definitely recommend following small businesses and even collaborating with them!

C: What advice would you give to women who aspire to work in fashion?

A: My advice would be to not be afraid of the industry. If you are really passionate about fashion, there is a place for everyone in this industry. There are so many different aspects to fashion and so many jobs out there. Definitely follow that feeling if you want to be in the industry. 

C: How would you describe your personal style? How do you reflect this in Nissa?

A: I would say my style is fun and eclectic. I like to look at trends, yet make them my own. I display this in my brand by designing pieces that I would wear myself. 

C: What are your current favorite items from Nissa?

A: My current favorite pieces are coming for spring. The new knit dress the “Lola Dress” paired with the matching “Susie Cardigan” are my favorites as of right now. The dress has a great fit. Everyone needs a comfy and flattering dress for spring!

C: What should we expect next from Nissa?

A: Coming up next for Nissa, you should expect even better quality products, knit pieces with the cutest details yet. This spring/summer collection is going to have several colorful pieces that reflect happiness. I am going to be creating beautiful knitwear, and expand my size range to include all.

Check out Nissa New York!