National Boss: Sheena Cruz!

Tell us a bit about yourself and business journey:
I am a proud LatinX fashion designer and single parent. I have poured myself into my business in ways that show the evolution of my business. I started out with one vision for my company that focused more on cutting edge designs and artistic expression under the name Dollhouse Couture.

I went back to FIT to hone in on my design skills and realized I wanted to affect change in my community creators. I wanted to leave a legacy for both of my daughters Shayla & Soriya. Due to the expansion of purpose for my company, Dollhouse Couture transitioned into SS House of Couture. SS House of Couture is named after my daughters to become a beacon of light and education opportunities for women and children in underserved communities. 

SS House of Couture is cutting edge in couture and urban chic. We have activewear, outerwear, and accessories that uniquely fit both males' and females' styling needs. Our glam collections offer goddess-like looks that can also be paired with outerwear for an urban glam-chic look that compliments the concrete jungle of NYC. 

I also value our human journey to the zero-carbon imprint that will save our Earth. I have an affinity for reconstructive couture fashion. I take older pieces of clothing and create something new and unique to the SS House of Couture standards. This will create a purpose for materials that would normally become landfill to be of use in the luxury fashion industry.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being a boss?
The biggest lesson I've learned to date: Life must have balance. I must recognize when it is time for me to go harder than ever before in creating new designs and providing philanthropic assistance. I have also learned to listen to my body when I need to rest from work. I have taken better care of my mental, physical, and spiritual health in the most recent months than I have since the creation of my company. 

Please share a few of your 2020 business accomplishments:
Though COVID19 has postponed a few events, SS House of Couture has been able to create two new lines with active promotion. The IKONIC collection has also resurfaced, satisfying long time supporters of my brand. We have also contributed to the NY Health & Hospitals call for the creation of masks. We look forward to being a part of more community events in this last quarter to further encourage creative entrepreneurs. 

What is next for you?
Where do I begin?! SS House of Couture has launched a B&B Series that highlights important business information for women and youth. We also have the SS Fashion Expo in May 2021, which will consist of: seven designers, 15+ fine artists, and vendors under one roof.  My new SS House of Couture line will debut at this event. 

January will be an amazing start to the SS House of Couture children's line. Some pieces are available for customization into Mommy & Me or Daddy & Me pieces. 

November 2021 will allow us to culminate our B&B Series at our Bosscation in Jamaica. The Bosscation is a women business owner all-inclusive experience for 4 days and 3 nights. We will have workshops, meditation, and a philanthropy mission during our stay at our private villa in Ocho Rios. 

How can readers support your business and connect with you online?
The biggest support for SS House of Couture is to buy or feature our products on your platforms. We invite you to order a custom piece for your own creativity to shine. Every purchase helps me help others that are striving for success. 

We also provide wardrobes for a movie, video, and photoshoot set. You can check out more of what's to come on my Instagram page @ss_hoc!! My launch of the updated website www.sshouseofcouture.com will be announced on my Instagram page.