When it comes to fashion, it’s important that everyone is included in the conversation. That’s why Alexa Jovanovic created Aille Design (pronounced: eye) – a clothing and accessories brand based in Buffalo that caters to the blind and visually impaired.
Jovanovic’s internationally recognized and award-winning braille fashion brand started off as a final University research project that is based on apparel that features fully legible braille in the form of beadwork. She began the process when living in her university dorm room, where she would hand sew each bead onto her products. Today. Jovanovic works with the blind and visually impaired to create the brand’s merchandise lines, which are fully functional. Each article of clothing makes a statement, from physical descriptions to empowering statements.
The designs are functional for braille readers, but so beautiful that they can be loved and worn by anyone.
Aille Design has been making some pretty big waves as of late. Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, who has been blind since the age of 12, recently chose to wear an article of clothing on stage, which was a huge win for the brand. Also, Aille Design was featured as a clue on Celebrity Jeopardy, which was another welcome boost for the company. Adding to the momentum, Jovanovic has been busy fulfilling orders for some heavy swinging clients, including Amazon, Wendy’s, and the NBA-G League.
“It has been incredible to see the local and nationwide impact that Aille Design has had on the disability community and the inclusive fashion industry,” says Jovanovic, who donates a percentage of profits to visually impaired organizations. “Just a few years ago people questioned why inclusive fashion was important. Now, major brands and organizations are reaching out to us as experts on the topic and looking to collaborate with our brand”.
In an exciting twist, Aille Design has been named a top 10 finalist in the Barclays ‘Small Business Big Wins’ nationwide contest for small business owners that have “shown exceptional innovation and resilience, particularly in adapting to the dynamic economic landscape.” The contest is based on popular voting, which means that Jovanovic is counting on the Buffalo community to help push her over the finish line.
“We have an even bigger opportunity coming up this year with a globally recognized brand and need to quickly expand our team and local manufacturing capabilities,” says Jovanovic. “Winning the $60,000 would provide immediate relief as we scale, but it’s so much more than that. This win has the opportunity to create ample growth and employment opportunities in Buffalo. It’s a win for the entire city.”
The public is invited to cast their vote daily for Aille Design, from April 8 through April 19. Vote daily for Aille Design at BarclaysSmallBizBigWins.com and help them bring home a big win for Buffalo! The winner will be announced during the week of May 1 to coincide with National Small Business Week. Learn more about Aille Design and their products at ailledesign.com.
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