Rising Stars: Meet Kenna Dudley of Phoenix

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenna Dudley.

Hi Kenna, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve always been creative, as a kid I played 5 different instruments and was always crocheting or embroidering. Everyone in my family is very crafty and creative, I remember my mom creating elaborate homemade Halloween or dance costumes for me. I remember watching Miss Universe and the Victoria’s Secret fashion show dreaming of walking the runway someday. As I entered college, I started doing test shoots and signed to my first modeling agency. I was in Montana so there wasn’t much opportunity, but I took every chance to travel and build up my portfolio. In my last semester, I was unsure of what I wanted to do for a career, I just knew I wanted to see where modeling could take me. I graduated college, packed up everything I owned, and moved across the country alone to Phoenix. Over the last year and a half, I’ve worked in Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, New York City, and Vegas. I’ve been blessed to walk in NYFW, PHXFW, and LAFW, and have worked with some incredibly talented designers, photographers, and hair and makeup artists. My time modeling for such talented designers, sparked inspiration for me to start my own brand. I taught myself how to create clothes, and Designed by Kenna Rose came to life. I love making evening gowns, wedding dresses, and anything custom. I never would’ve imagined that I would become a clothing designer, but I am so thankful that my journey has brought me here.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been a smooth road. No one will ever see your vision as you see it, so rather than trying to convince others of your dreams, you just have to work hard and show them. Moving across the country by myself was terrifying and incredibly lonely, but it also forced a lot of growth. I learned a lot about myself and my resilience, Pursuing modeling requires a great deal of confidence, as you face rejection on a daily. I have submitted to hundreds of agencies and have either been ignored or rejected by most of them. I’ve submitted to thousands of jobs and have booked just a few dozen. Staying focused on your goals and having confidence in yourself is imperative to growing your career as a model.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
In modeling, I have done a little bit of everything. I’ve done beauty campaigns, swimwear, runway, bridal, commercials, and print! As far as my design brand, I like special occasion customs. Everything I make is one of a kind, specific to my client. Each garment is made custom to my clients measurements. I like to match linings or mesh perfectly to my client’s skintone. My greatest inspiration is how I make my clients feel and how they see themselves in their garments. Seeing my clients face light up when they see themselves in the mirror is my fuel. I think what sets me apart from others is my unconventional background. I may not have a traditional background in fashion, but I think that my unique perspective and my experience in the fashion industry contribute to my creativity.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I subscribe to Vogue which is well worth it. I love flipping through the pages and finding inspiration in the featured fashions. I also spend a ridiculous amount of time on Pinterest. Mostly, I just love observing fashion in the real world. Whenever I travel I collect data about trends I notice. When I am modeling I like to mentally deconstruct the garments I’m wearing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://designedbykennarose.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bykennarose