Welcome to Dorian Elise! Named after my daughter, who carries the name of my beloved Godbrother, the late Dorian Styles Dawkins. Back in 2010, I planned to launch a t-shirt line called Stly3s in his honor… but life happened, and the t-shirt line didn’t — until now. Twelve years later, I finally introduced Dorian Elise, a fashion-forward, inclusive clothing and accessory brand.

What started as a creative escape while I navigated postpartum anxiety/depression and finished my PhD quickly became something much bigger — a love letter to joy, identity, and representation.

As a research scientist, trained dancer, violinist, flutist, former pageant girl, entrepreneur, content creator, and mother, I’ve learned that we are not meant to live inside boxes. I want my daughter, Dorian Elise, to know she can flourish with every gift God has given her — that while the world may tell you to choose one thing, you have the power to choose your everything.

Christmas has always held a special place in my heart. On my very first Christmas, my godfather dressed up as Santa Claus, and those photos remind me that the true magic of the season is found in the people who make it special.

At Dorian Elise, every sequin, bead, and piece of original artwork carries that same spirit. It’s about celebrating who we are, honoring inclusion, and embracing joy. When I created Cocoa Santa, I drew him in the likeness of my grandfather — a civil rights activist, economic justice champion, and my very best friend. His face is a reminder that everyone deserves to see themselves reflected in the magic of Christmas.

Dorian Elise is creating space for Black joy and imagery in the magic of Christmas and beyond. As a proud two-time graduate of Florida A&M University, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and a girl raised on the East Side of Saginaw, Michigan — this brand is truly built from love, resilience, and representation.

This brand is dedicated to every girl who loved bold, sparkly, head-turning clothes, and every girl who never felt represented in their favorite brands. Dorian Elise is for you. Fill your cart, heal your inner child, and remember: you’re never too old to sparkle. ✨