Meet Jerusha Barnes!

 Jerusha Barnes is a friend of ours over at ByhandNYC. She is a fantastic fashion designer and stylist. She has worked with some major corporations and small companies alike. Jerusha was born in Amherst, Massachusetts until she moved to Brookyln, New york during her late teens. Troy managed to score a personal interview with Jerusha. She is very soft spoken, but full of energy and charisma. She was able to reveal a few of her future and present projects for ByhandNYC. Thanks!


Here is her story!


I'm Jerusha Barnes aka "Jeru" and I'm originally from Amherst, MA.

What is your work and/ or passion?

I'm a freelance Fashion Designer where I work for different companies offering sketches, textile prints, graphics and a communicator with their factories to help build women's wear collections. My passion is costume design, and sometimes I implement costumes and/or styling for short films, photo shoots and music videos.


Do you have an inspiration that is not mainstream or well known, someone in your family maybe?

As of now no one in particular. Whats been an ongoing inspiration in my life is New York City itself. So many artists and creative minded people alike move or reside in this city with one common goal in mind; to pursue their dreams at any cost. In all my travels I've never been anywhere else where the majority is as motivated and hungry for success. It puts me back in check when I feel like slacking off as a reminder that you have to work hard for anything to be rewarded to you.

Have friends helped you through your  good and bad experiences in the "industry?"

Its really important especially in the fashion industry to have a network of people that will look out for you in this business when they can. I've managed to stay in contact with old coworkers that I can share similar work experiences with, and even call on when I'm in need of work. There will be times when your working long hours and it also helps when you can get along with your coworkers. The time will go by a lot faster.


 Favorite article of clothing that you have created? 


One of my all-time favorites is a black and white jail stripe dress that I created for my portfolio/look-book. Its two jackets reconstructed into a dress with ruffles, a collar & lapel, pockets, buttons...its a mix between hard and soft details that sums up my style; contemporary urban incorporating bold patterns. 

Wise words for the young?

With technology and colliding cultures bridging the gap, I feel like now more than ever the youth has the chance to really express oneself. Its so important to tap into your passion regardless of what others might think, because as you get older you'll be the only one that has to live with it. I'd also say to put your all into everything; its a very small world and you never know who's watching or judging your work.

"Swag," what does it mean to you?


Swag! Its an attitude. It's having your own style; defining your own rules. I've always correlated it to a bit of sex appeal, that extra limp in your step, a unique vernacular. I think to have swag is to be, or contribute to new trends, new subcultures, to be intriguing; that is inspiring.

Created for her portfolio.