It’s hard to conceive of the thousands of tacking, pleating and cutting that Mission Catwalk alum Shenna Carby has performed in the seven years since her larger-than-life personality dominated our TV sets. “I was in it to win it!” she tells SO over coffee Tuesday evening as she reminisces on the show that turned her into an overnight sensation. “I was eager to both learn and explore. I also had to strategise to survive the competition. My focus was long-term. This was my future.” It’s no idle boast! Seven years later Carby is, by her own account, “a lot more mature in thinking”. With a loyal client base. “I’m not perfect… I learn every day and experience has taught me wisdom. My mission never ends.”

Her impressive, loyal client base speaks volumes whilst her almost clinical, scientific approach ensures mutual respect. “I make it my priority to know my custumer’s likes and dislikes in fashion and style. I have made myself [almost] indispensable to my customers and we have developed a relationship of trust. The moment I commit to a job I have to get it done, no matter how short the notice. Even if I have to go without sleep for two nights and two days, I can’t quit. About 70% of my customers don’t know what they are getting or how it will look. I strongly believe that my word is my bond.”

Carby caters pimarily to the female corporate executive. Her muse, however, remains Ann Marie Vaz. “She’s been there from day one… she was the first one to believe in me after I won Mission Catwalk and seven years later she is still wearing Shenna Carby Designs. I’m truly appreciative of the trust she has placed in me. Plus, capturing her style has played a major part in my own design journey,” Carby says.

Carby’s smile widens as she speaks to her career highlights. Naturally, Mission Catwalk — the All-Star edition takes centre stage as this propelled her doing Miami Fashion Week, London Fashion Week, Caribbean Fashion Week and The Salon Bridal showcase in New York. Her loyal customers also include those in search of “a Page 2 outfit”, which acts as a marketing tool for her label.

Shenna Carby’s next mission is to expand. “Not just locally but internationally… I want Shenna Carby labels in closets around the world,” she says. The glint in her eyes harks back to her 2011 Mission Catwalk win .

Editor’s Note:

Mission Catwalk, Season 6, The Celebrity Edition, premieres on Saturday, September 22 at 8:30 pm on TVJ.