Returning home to New Orleans, in year 2000, he landed a ‘display coordinator’ position at now known as Rubensteins, one of the most exquisite reknown mens clothing stores in the city. There, his creativity was cultivated by working with interior designers such as Bill Horton, fashion designer, Frank Agostino, including several other local & legendary designers.
Later, VanShawn decided to continue learning the craft of apparel construction and took up the trade tailoring at Sydney Collier. There he learned the craftsmanship of mens tailoring from J. Clark, Master Tailor.
Before Hurricane Katrina’s devastation, VanShawn launched a custom mens suiting business venture only to cease production on 08/29/05. In January of 2018, thirteen years later (yes? thirteen), he decides to relive a dream once delayed and starts from the bottom of the male wardrobe with #theTailoredTrouser.
KAYIE by VanShawn Branch brings femininity to menswear and non-gender conforming clothes. His designs are a mix of prints, florals, and silk influenced by bold and vibrant colors.
