DaVonna May
Fierce, Fearless, Fashionable
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
DaVonna May: I am DaVonna May, the Visionary, Designer, and Stylist behind BellaDonna PrimaDonna Accessory House. My brand, an international, award-winning label, is renowned for its timeless elegance and specializes in creating accessories for the most powerful women worldwide. Our definition of power transcends fame and infamy, focusing on purpose, spirit, and perseverance. At BellaDonna PrimaDonna, we believe that a single accessory has the transformative power to empower a woman, allowing her inner greatness to radiate. Our creations are designed to ignite that next level of power in every woman.
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If you have a business, could you describe it and how you started it?
DaVonna May: BellaDonna PrimaDonna Accessory House is more than a brand; it's a journey that has led me across international runways, from Africa to Europe, and placed me between magazine covers and in celebrity music videos. Specializing in accessories, each piece I create is timeless and romantic, designed to excite the imagination and appeal to the alter ego of luxury and fantasy. The brand has garnered acclaim from women worldwide, regardless of their level of renown, who consistently describe the experience of wearing our accessories as nothing short of extraordinary. The journey began with a passion for creating pieces that transcend fashion trends, embodying elegance and sophistication that stand the test of time. Through dedication, creativity, and a commitment to excellence, BellaDonna PrimaDonna Accessory House has become an international symbol of refined style and empowerment.
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What inspired you to become a fashion stylist?
DaVonna May: I draw my inspiration from the desire to empower and uplift every individual who has felt outcast, forgotten, or invalidated by society. My work is dedicated to young dreamers seeking support, growing women with untapped passions, and seasoned women with talents waiting to be unleashed. Together, in our space, we breathe new life and hope into purpose. My mission is to be there for each person, offering a place where they can step in and allow us to accessorize their journey to empowerment.
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What do you think sets your fashion styling services apart from others in the industry?
DaVonna May: What sets BellaDonna PrimaDonna Accessory House apart is our commitment to empowering women through our accessories. When we style a client, it's not just about the outward appearance; it's an opportunity for her to share her story, dreams, and aspirations. We create a safe and supportive space where we can speak life into her ambitions and empower her toward personal greatness.
Our accessories go beyond being mere adornments; they serve as symbols of hope and the revival of dreams. The moment a woman wears our brilliant accessories, she experiences an instant sensation of empowerment and excellence. It's a transformative experience that causes her internal light to shine brighter. What truly distinguishes us is our belief that every woman, regardless of her background or journey, deserves to feel empowered and confident.
Our jewelry serves as a tangible reminder that the life she desires is not only within reach but also attainable. This realization sparks a reawakening of purpose, and a new, empowered woman emerges from the experience. We are not just in the business of designing accessories; we are in the business of empowering and inspiring women to embrace their inner greatness.
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How do you stay up-to-date with the latest fashion trends and incorporate them into your work?
DaVonna May: Staying up-to-date with the latest fashion trends is essential to delivering a fresh and relevant experience to my clients. However, my approach is unique. Instead of solely following trends, I prioritize understanding my clients on a personal level. I recognize that each individual is distinct, with unique needs and lifestyles. This personalized approach guides my design process, ensuring that every piece I create complements the unique essence of the woman it adorns. Moreover, I don't just follow trends; I set them through my own distinctive style. Drawing inspiration from my personal experiences, mood, and influences gathered from global travels, I infuse these elements into my designs. This not only keeps my work aligned with the latest trends but also allows me to create pieces that resonate with a diverse range of women. It's a blend of staying current with industry trends and infusing my creations with a touch of individuality and global inspiration.
“BellaDonna Primadonna Accessory House: Where timeless elegance meets international glamour - Adorn Yourself in Extraordinary Luxury. ”
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What has been your biggest challenge as a woman in the fashion industry, and how have you overcome it?
DaVonna May: My most significant challenge in the fashion industry has been grappling with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Overcoming this obstacle required a profound shift in my mindset. I had to come to the realization that I didn't land in this space by accident; rather, it was the result of my unique gifts, talents, persistence, and a sense of purpose. I earned and deserved my spot.
I allowed my successes to serve as evidence of my competence and worth. Each triumph became a testament to my capabilities and value within the industry. I reframed my narrative, acknowledging that I was not an imposter but a champion and a trailblazer, setting the stage for future leaders.
This mental transformation wasn't an overnight process but a journey of self-discovery and affirmation. By recognizing my achievements and embracing the authenticity of my journey, I successfully overcame the barriers of doubt.
Today, I stand not just as a woman in the fashion industry but as someone who has conquered internal obstacles, solidifying my belief that every win was hard-earned and well-deserved.
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Can you share a memorable experience or project that you have worked on in your career so far?
DaVonna May: One of the most memorable experiences in my career was being a stylist and model at Milan Fashion Week in 2023. Despite facing discouragement from family members who deemed a career in fashion as impractical, I held onto my dream of showcasing my accessories in Milan, Italy.
Thirteen years later, not only did I witness my accessories being featured at this prestigious event, but I also found myself modeling on one of the world's most coveted fashion stages. This accomplishment served as a powerful victory in the face of skepticism, a testament to the strength of perseverance. It allowed my audience to witness the unfolding of a dream and served as a moment of realization that all things are possible, regardless of the time it takes; dreams do come true.
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What advice would you give to aspiring women who want to start their own fashion business or pursue a career in fashion styling?
DaVonna May: My advice to aspiring women who wish to start their own fashion business or pursue a career in fashion styling is to embrace the journey with open arms.
Embarking on the path of entrepreneurship or navigating the world of fashion design and styling is both thrilling and challenging. It will test every facet of your character, pushing you mentally, emotionally, and testing your endurance and will. However, every challenge presents an opportunity for growth, and amid the tests, you'll discover skills and strengths within yourself that you didn't know existed.
Enjoy the ride; it's going to be exhilarating, and it will be the most fulfilling challenge you'll ever take on. Your business has the potential to literally change the world!
Additionally, recognize the power of collaboration. Cultivate relationships within the fashion community, consider partnering with other designers or businesses, and be open to exchanges and bartering. Collective efforts often lead to greater visibility and opportunities. Your network will open doors that you could never open alone.
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How do you see the future of the fashion industry evolving, and how are you adapting to those changes in your work?
DaVonna May: I envision the future of the fashion industry moving towards a more inclusive and supportive space for smaller, lesser-known designers, stylists, and creatives.
In adapting to these changes, my brand has created an environment where these creatives are not only respected but also offered opportunities for growth. We are committed to fostering inclusivity and diversity in people, expressions, and ideas. Our doors are open to a spectrum of talent, with the hope that they can leverage our platform to reach greater heights in the global fashion conversation. We strive to be a catalyst for positive change in the industry, embracing diversity and providing a space where everyone's unique voice can be heard and celebrated.
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What does being an empowering boss mean to you, and how do you strive to embody that in your everyday life and interactions with others?
DaVonna May: Being an empowering boss, to me, means being a facilitator of growth for the next generation of leaders.
In my role, I see myself as a servant—a door opener and a stepping stone for others. My primary responsibility is to recognize the unique gifts within my community and actively connect individuals with the right opportunities. I strive to be a resource by providing practical guidance, creating a collaborative environment, offering mentorship, and presenting opportunities for people to soar to their fullest potential. It's not just about personal success; it's about creating a culture of empowerment and uplifting others to achieve their goals.
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What do you believe is the most important quality for a successful fashion stylist?
DaVonna May: Patience is a virtue in an industry where success is often a journey rather than an instant outcome. The time-consuming process of building a memorable brand while creating lasting relationships with clients and collaborators requires a marathon mindset. I believe that one should not expect overnight success if they have not put in the work. Patience allows for the cultivation of a sustainable and impactful career in the fashion industry.
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How do you stay motivated and inspired, even in the face of adversity?
DaVonna May: When faced with challenges, I take time to rest. I plan a vacation or a self-care experience to reflect on my core values. I use this time to reclaim my mental and emotional strength. This introspection grounds me, reminding me of who I am and why I embarked on this journey. Once rejuvenated, I re-enter the arena with renewed energy, inspiration and direction.
Most importantly, I remember that I was selected before birth to fulfill this work, to serve this purpose, and to contribute to the earth in this way. This realization provides a profound sense of strength and renews my commitment to the journey despite adversities.
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What changes or advancements do you hope to see for women in your industry in the next 5-10 years?
DaVonna May: I hope to witness a shift in our collective mindset—a culture where women have evolved into a space free from jealousy, competition, and covetousness. Instead, we operate from a place of collective healing, a community where success is not a personal game but a collaborative journey towards a more empowered and impactful future for all.
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How have you continued to empower and inspire other women in your industry or community?
DaVonna May: I recognized that in today's digital age, presentation is the key to unlocking profitable connections and expanding one's presence on a global scale.
I had to navigate the fashion game with no guidance, no mentor, and very limited resources. Marketing my products, creating a brand voice, building a website, and making money without having support were all skills I had to learn along the way.
It became my mission to help prepare women for the success they dreamed of. While I already had the accessory house to enhance a woman's outer beauty, there was a need to polish her business for investments and customer readiness.
I founded BDPD Digital Marketing Firm to provide entrepreneurs with the tools, access to resources, knowledge, and mentorship to build strong businesses. My marketing firm has crafted business strategies, marketing plans, and PR opportunities for entrepreneurs in diverse industries, including fashion, tech, health, and wellness, with many of them achieving international visibility.
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Lastly, what message would you like to share with the Empowering Boss Life community and its readers?
DaVonna May: You may not know it yet, but what you possess is extraordinary. You are the magic. Embrace your uniqueness. The color of your skin, your height, your weight, your facial features, the thing that you like to hide - use it as your superpower.
By showing up fearlessly, naturally and authentically, you will unlock the magic in someone else who needs the confidence to be true to themselves. This results in a generation of history makers who will attribute their success to you - because of you they learned how to believe in themselves.