Maya Ramirez
Age: 14
Occupation: Student at Toledo School for the Arts/Fashion Designer
Maya Ramirez’s interest in fashion began in third grade, when she learned to sew watching YouTube videos. Creating her own wardrobe empowered her to define her personal style and begin as a fashion designer. Her modern, edgy designs also propelled her to becoming a contestant on the debut of Project Runway Junior, currently airing on Lifetime.
When did your sense of style begin?
I got into fashion when I started sewing, because before that I was a tomboy. I wanted to wear sweatpants to school, but my mom kind of forced me to wear dresses. Then when I started sewing, I realized I kind of like these [dresses]. Sewing really brought out my sense of style and my design ability.
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is a bit edgy. I mostly lean toward edgy silhouettes, but I like to use more eccentric, interesting fabrics—sometimes girly fabrics—to create my designs.
What are three must-haves in your wardrobe?
Nice skinny jeans, a nice fitted black dress, and some sort of neutral jacket, whether it be a leather jacket or blazer.
What do you draw inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from absolutely everything. Architecture is a big one, different shapes of buildings and things like that. Art, graffiti— I really love graffiti. Different designers… I really like Alexander McQueen and Herve Leger. Those are probably my two favorites.
Which local places do you shop?
I love Plato’s Closet because you don’t have to spend a lot of money to be fashion-forward. It’s probably the place I shop most often. I shop there and mostly a lot of
chain [clothing stores].
Project Runway Junior airs Thursdays at 9pm ET/PT on Lifetime
Find more information on the show, and view past episodes, at mylifetime.com/shows/project-runway-junior
Maya’s designs can be found on her Instagram page, maya_r_ramirez
For more Maya, Conley has an extra, online exclusive interview with the Project Runway Jr. star
Read it here
