Always one to step out ever so fashionably on the social scene, Toya Taylor is her own walking style statement. It’s none too surprising for us to learn then that the spunky, cute-as-a-button advertising sales executive is venturing into the fashion designing realm. We meet for drinks at Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel’s Regency Bar and Lounge — a preferred watering hole of hers — to get the deets.

What are you sipping?

Vodka and soda water with lime.

You’re always cutting a stylish presence on the social scene. How long does it take you to prepare your wardrobe for an engagement?

It actually doesn’t take me too long to think of what to wear to an event. I’d say 20 minutes, tops.

We hear that you are presently making moves as a fashion designer. Enlighten us as to what you are presently up to.

Presently, I’m preparing to showcase my line at Ocean Style’s ‘Rip the Strip’ event in October. This will be my debut in Jamaica, coming from my recent show at Pittsburgh Style Week back in August. I’m also working on my website for the collection.

If you had to exist a week with only six pieces of clothing, what would they be?

A jumper, a shift dress, a romper, a maxi dress, a pair of shorts and a blazer.

Who are your designer icons?

There are several designers who I’m inspired by and would love to have the chance to sit and pick their brains. I love Alexandre Vauthier, Balmain, Oscar de la Renta and Zac Posen. However, one designer in particular I admire, from a business standpoint, is Michael Kors. This man has made his brand accessible to everyone from high-end customers to middle market and that’s not a bad thing — it’s actually brilliant.

Jeans or a LBD?

That would depend on my mood but, most often, I lean in the direction of the LBD. It’s a timeless piece that is so versatile and classy.

Flats or stilettos?

Always a stiletto! They make your legs look so long, lean and just plain fabulous! They say, ‘The higher the heel, the closer to God’.

What perfume are you spraying?

Currently, I’m obsessed with Dolce, a new fragrance by Dolce & Gabbana.

What’s your beauty regimen?

I’m simple when it comes to my beauty regimen. I always wear a moisturiser with sun block during the day and I apply a moisturiser with Vitamin C at night. I do get facials and a chemical peel every couple months — just makes your skin have that extra glow.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

The best piece of advice I’ve received is to not give in to fear or doubt and I apply that to my everyday life and especially to my new business. You can’t let fear cripple you and hold you back from pursuing your true passions. Some will love it and some will not, and that’s okay.

What is your strongest suit?

My strongest suit is my organised nature. I think that will come in pretty handy with my business.

What is your Achilles heel?

My Achilles heel is that I tend to get overwhelmed when things don’t go the way they are supposed to.

What’s your idea of the perfect man?

My idea of the perfect man is someone who is confident and is not afraid of a strong woman. We’re all flawed and he should be able to help you to become an even better woman. That goes vice versa.

What’s your idea of the perfect date?

The perfect date, for me, is going up to Strawberry Hill or EITS Café to enjoy an awesome meal, great wine and even better conversation. A date is a chance for you to get to know someone and once you’re in a comfortable setting, you are more open to sharing pieces of yourself.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

In 10 years I hope to be a household name in fashion, not only in Jamaica, but internationally. You have to dream big and I want to have my own design studio and boutique within this time frame. I also want to begin a menswear and kids’ line. Ultimately, I want to build the Toya Taylor lifestyle brand that will include so much more.