Chanell Vick, Owner and retailer of Timeline
If you are anything like me, you love fashion and you jump at the chance to pick the brain of a designer or retailer. If you are exactly like me then you are also interested in the world of plus-size fashion. Well, I have found a diamond in the rough, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania- she is Chanell Vick, owner of Timeline, a luxury plus-size brand. I got the opportunity to interview her recently and here is what she had to say:
CS: Who is Chanell Vick?
CV: Chanell Vick is a girl that is in the process of living her dreams by taking life by its horns and riding it. I’m creative, love to be out and about and have a great aptitude for learning about different places and things. I’m still learning me as I am tested every day from the gifts and curses that are here in the universe. However, I will say that I am compassionate, a go getter with a God fearing attitude.
CS: How did you get in to the fashion industry? Why did you get in to the industry?
CV: I got involved in the fashion industry because early on I realized that the full figured market is overlooked and under served. With that said, I knew I wanted to go to school for fashion. Prior to going to college I got a few gigs in retail to help comprehend consumer buying behaviors and trends.
CS: You started Fashions by Timeline, was this just a dream you’ve always had or was it spurred by some thing more?
Model pictured at Style Week, Fashion in the Skies- Pittsburgh, PA
CV: Timeline briefly was birthed in 2006 when I had to submit a scholarship for a college that I wanted to attend. In the scholarship I created a power point displaying a vintage store. However, I didn’t pursue the full extent of exploring the option. But the turning point was when I didn’t get the job opportunity that I was yearning for. Hence I made my own opportunity. I realized that now in today’s society if you want something you have to go for it before you miss the opportunity. Then I also knew that I wanted to do something with plus size because of my feelings for this market.
CS: A lot of fashion out there seems to run on what’s trending. Do you follow the trends to come up with designs or do you design to set trends? What is your process?
CV: Well at the moment, being a retailer I do a little of both. However, Timeline strives on the idea of providing fine quality. We want our customers to feel empowered when wearing our clothing and let their personalities flourish through style. Timeline is a luxury lifestyle brand.
CS: Plus-size fashion. That has been a hot topic and one often criticized. Some designers think “the more you weigh= the more fabric you should wear”, I for one do not subscribe to that notion. Being a plus-sized ample bosomed diva myself, I do not fancy moomoos, walking around looking like a tent is not my idea of being stylish. How do your designs and creativity go against this notion?
CV: Good point! Here at Timeline we are trying to capture the clientele that is fashion forward and understand the beauty of eloquence and sophistication. One has to understand that you wear the clothes; the clothes do not wear you. Clothes should complement your figure and be an expression of one self. Everything isn’t for everybody; and shouldn’t be worn on everyone just because they make your size. Strut class and sophistication then you will have become a style ambassador!
CS: The name “Timeline” itself makes me think of something classic. How did you come up with the name?
Model pictured during a Timeline photo shoot
CV: I am excited that you made that connection. Timeline is vintage. Timeline is chic. Timeline is sophistication. Timeline is a classic. We want to capture vintage inspired clothing that represents this and it can come from any era. Fashion is a collection of events that happened over a period of time. Nevertheless, Timeline is… Timeless Fashions for Today’s Woman.
CS: As a retailer and owner what is your ultimate goal and purpose for and with Timeline?
CV: As a retailer and owner the ultimate goal for Timeline is to be like a Sony but with clothing. I would like to be my own manufacturer and distributor all in house with being bi-coastal and eventually international. Our mission is to expand on plus size fashions and style awareness. Furthermore, to provide our clientele with fine quality, affordability and excellent customer service.
CS: I have seen some of your designs and they are fabulous! Tell everyone what services you offer and where they can purchase your original designs.
Model pictured at Style Week, Fashion in the Skies- Pittsburgh, PA
CV: Thank you. I appreciate your kind words. Timeline is a lifestyle brand. We also offer our personal styling services. At the moment, this service is currently only available in Pittsburgh, PA. It’s extended to women of all shapes and sizes for all occasions. Please check out our site fashionsbyTimeline.com and please follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @Timelinellc. We appreciate your support and the love!
All pictured styles can be purchased exclusively at fashionsbyTimeline.com .
