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Renaissance woman of all that is funky and fashionable

By Emily Terbrueggen

This Columbus based designer might be known around town for her flashy, deconstructed denim pieces (her signature collection called Ghetto Blues) but she does so much more than that. From clothes to jewelry, her signature “hat wraps” and hand painted hand bags to the way she is using dance and live poetry readings in her fashions shows, Xantha Ward embraces all things artistic. Xantha says her clothes are for “anyone who wants something different or unique” and she herself defiantly projects that through her style. When I met up with her she had spiced up a black pin stripe pants suit with gold and beaded jewelry and a beaded belt all of her own design.

How long have you been designing?

About 20 years ago. I’ve really been into it the past 5 years. But I always say that I’ve been doing it forever.

What is your personal style?

Funky, contemporary, jet setter, like rock star clothes, stuff that stands out, beaded, leather, off-beat, unfinished that ragged look.

Who are designers that you look to?

Actually I don’t have any designer that I look to. I get most of my inspiration from lots of prayer and meditation and just being close to nature and outside and see what comes to me. From dreams...it’s just that simple. I do have a favorite designer though. Fendi. I love Fendi’s bags.

You have a show coming up. How will this one be different from your previous shows?

The theme for the show is Truth and Freedom and there is going to be live poetry readings and this show I’m not holding back anything that’s inside of me. Because sometimes I tone myself down for people. I’m really elaborate and out there and I know my stuff is not for everyone. There’s lots of set design and painting and just being totally free and true to myself, doing my own thing. This show is more intimate. I usually do a big open room and this one is going to be outdoors.

What are your goals for the future?

To travel outside of Columbus and do shows, take my show on the road, get my Masters degree in Business, write a book on consumer theory, expand my internet business and reach for customers outside of the state and get a new space. A big warehouse space where I can work and customers can come in by appointment and I don’t have to feel stuck because for two years I was stuck on High Street.

How many people are you anticipating to come out and see the show?

Last year is was about 200 but this year with the response...I’m going to be humble and just say 200 again.

Is there anything else that you want people to know about you?

I’m the mother of a 19 year old daughter. This is what I do. I’m a woman with a business who has raised a 19 year old daughter. You can do both. Oh, and I don’t have models. I have average women and I’m trying to be more multi-cultural. They tried to label me as a black designer or an African designer because I have locks in my hair and I was like...no. I have white clients and I have black clients. My models are all ages too. The oldest lady is 64 and you would NOT know it. This woman is HOT!

Xantha’s Truth & Freedom fashion show will be held at 5 p.m. Sept. 30 at Veteran’s Memorial, 300 W. Broad St. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. To buyy tickets in advance call 614-774-9310

Originally Published: September 27, 2006

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