Every fashion lover knows that accessories complete an outfit—whether it's a simple brooch, a pair of earrings or a pair of fancy gloves.
It's the detail in an outfit that stands out … and if you are a diehard fashion fanatic, you know for a fact that all it takes is one piece of an outfit to set it off.
Chyna Parker realizes that, and it's why the out lesbian is now the owner of Chynazway, a one-stop shop for unique and exclusive accessories. Since last year, Parker has been featured in several pop-up shops around the city and has been blowing up with her online sales. Parker, a native of Chicago, embraces her unique style and the unique styles of others.
"My style is all over the place. One day I can be casual. One day I can be Western. I love to be colorful. It's all with my moods," said Parker.
Parker admitted to Windy City Times that her style is very parallel to her actual life: "Like my style, I just go with the flow. That's how I live my life."
Just last year, Parker decided that it was time to get out of her own way and make a way for her business to flourish. She said one of her greatest encouragers in this process was her wife, who she said gave her an extra push of encouragement to get the business started.
"I had been collecting pieces for years," said Parker. "It was finally time to do something with all the jewelry and accessories I had. And that is how Chynazway was born."
Months later, Parker has a story to tell about how she's obtained such diverse clientele—through social-media marketing and exhibiting, here in Chicago and, just recently, in Atlanta.
"I get all types of people who approach me for my unique pieces," said Parker. "I'm talking older people, younger people, of all types of backgrounds. Everybody is shopping with me. Word of mouth travels and I meet so many different people through Chynazway."
Her hustle in fashion is one that is unique, just as unique as the flower shaped brooch or polka dot button earrings on her website. But, because she realizes that her accessories and jewelry are only assets to fashion, she's able to offer a lot.
"Fashion is for everyone, but your style, that's all about you," explained Parker. "My pieces are about adding style to a person's fashion. It's a big difference."
Parker's roles as a wife and a businessowner are what she considers her greatest rewards.
She said, "Family, close friends—that's what means the most to me. The people that support me and are there for me. That's what means the most. Falling and love and having someone who loves you is important. My wife is my biggest supporter."
…and coffee. As much as fashion, family, and friends, she's crazy about coffee.
"It doesn't even matter where it comes from, as long as I get my coffee," she said with laughter.
It's laughter that keeps her love for Chynazway so strong. Parker has a long road to travel as a business owner, and she's not afraid of what's ahead of her. Her creative spirit is what she believes attracts a diverse group of customers; but she also knows that her hustle is what keeps the customers coming.
"I really underestimated myself a little bit," Parker said. "It's amazing to see how big the business has gotten. I'm real low key about things, and I didn't know that people would perceive and want my pieces like they do. I'm blessed."
Visit Chynazway.com .
