Sustainability, Soul & Shaking Up Luxury: Nia Thomas on Fashion with Integrity

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Season 1 | Episode 2

In this episode, Nia Thomas enlightens us on shaking up the luxury fashion game—because, let’s be honest, the industry is drowning in poorly made fast fashion nonsense. As the mastermind behind her eponymous brand, Nia shares her journey from self-doubt to building a sustainable, high-end fashion house rooted in intention, integrity, and undeniable Black beauty. She and Dominique Drakeford dive into what it really takes to build and run an ethically operated independent brand with soul—the highs, the headaches, and everything in between. In an industry often driven by ego, they explore the power of collaboration as she manifests her dream of creating a full-fledged luxury house, the sting (and flattery?) of imitation, and why true sustainability is all about integrity, self-care, craftsmanship and creativity. Tune in for a joyous convo that’s both life affirming and insightful!

MORE ABOUT NIA

As a Black woman-owned brand, Nia Thomas is redefining luxury fashion by blending sustainability with empowerment. Founded in 2018, they create collections that celebrate sensuality, strength, and individuality. The goal of this brand is to craft garments that honor the female form, the artisans behind them, and the planet. Each piece is designed to make an impact, emphasizing ethical production, timeless beauty, and a powerful narrative woven into every design.

“So it was really important for me to work with artisans that I handpicked it and hand selected myself, who’ve been working on this weaving, knitting, crocheting, sewing techniques for multiple generations within their families. Because I knew that if the quality wasn’t there, I didn’t want to have the brand. It’s like, WHAT’S THE POINT OF MAKING MORE POORLY MADE CLOTHING? THE WORLD HAS ENOUGH OF THAT.”

— Nia Thomas