Annette Sunshine’s love of fabrics and sewing began at a very young age. “My mother and my great aunt were wonderful seamstresses,” says the fashion designer. “I remember going with my mom to Kaplan’s, Cy Rudnick’s, and Vogue Fabrics growing up, which began my love of fabric and their different textures. I started sewing at the age of 10 and began designing clothes in my 30s.”
Just a mere two years ago, the local fashionista started unveiling her wares at Kansas City Fashion Week. Her newest Spring/Summer 2021 Annette Sunshine Designs collection debuted at KCFW’s virtual show on May 1st. “My designs are for women of all ages,” she says. “I believe in using simple lines and that all women should feel beautiful no matter her shape and size.”
We caught up with Sunshine to find out five things you don’t know about the clothing designer.
5. I’m all about purses.
“I began a side business in 2002 designing and making handbags. I made a tote bag for myself and received so many compliments and people asking if I could make them one. That was the beginning of Annette Sunshine Designs.”
4. I worked as an HR manager.
“I went back to school to finish my college degree after my first marriage ended. When I graduated, I worked as and HR manager in employee relations for ten years. I was laid off in 2007 and decided to do what I love, design and sewing. So I enrolled in the Kauffman Entrepreneurial program and immersed myself in building a business and a brand.”
3. I collect leather earrings.
“I started collecting earrings from Kansas City-based Nickel & Suede and from other businesses that I have found on Etsy. I have around 80 or so pairs. Just like fabric, these leather earrings have texture and are fun to wear. I used several pair with my current collection.”
2. I have a huge fabric obsession.
“In fact, I have a very large stash in my studio and approximately 25 bins of fabric in my basement. A very close friend of mine made me a beautifully embroidered canvas that says Fabric Diva.”
1. “Grandma in the City”
“I have four grandchildren. One lives just two blocks from me, but the other three live in a rural area east of Kansas City. When they come to see me or when we talk on the phone, they call me ‘Grandma in the City.’ I love it!”