Where were you born and how did your childhood shape your love for fashion?
I was born and raised in Florence, Alabama, in a close-knit family that played a significant role in shaping my passion for fashion and design. My grandmother, a mother of seven, believed that sewing was an essential life skill and made it a point to teach all of her children. That foundational influence continued with my father, who taught me how to create my first garment—a silk scarf.Growing up, he made my Halloween costumes from scratch each year, and those moments spent working alongside him deeply inspired my love for design. I often say that my creativity stems from both my grandmother and my father, who are the two individuals I admire most when it comes to design. Their influence continues to motivate me and fuel my passion for creating.
What inspires you in your designs?
My designs are often inspired by the world around me—whether it’s my surroundings, a cultural moment, or a story I feel compelled to share. For me, fashion goes beyond simply creating garments; it’s a powerful form of storytelling. I believe that when a design resonates emotionally and connects with someone on a deeper level, it becomes more than just clothing—it becomes a meaningful experience. Making that kind of impact through my work is what drives my passion for design.
What about Southern culture inspires you?
Southern culture is a deep source of inspiration in my design work—it's part of my roots. I come from a family of hardworking individuals: sharecroppers, farmers, ranchers, welders, and builders. Their dedication, resilience, and strong sense of community have profoundly shaped my values and creative perspective. The traditions of the South—rodeos, farming, and industrial work—continue to influence my aesthetic. I aim to blend the grit and authenticity of Southern heritage with the sophistication of high fashion. By merging these two worlds, I strive to create designs that not only honor where I come from but also make a meaningful impact in the fashion industry.
How did you decide to go to SCAD?
I've known since around the age of 10 that I wanted to attend SCAD. During family vacations to Savannah, Georgia, we would often visit the campus, and from the moment I stepped foot there, I felt an immediate sense of belonging. The creative atmosphere, inspiring workspaces, and vibrant community of artists and designers left a lasting impression on me. It felt like a place where I could truly grow, both creatively and personally, and it has remained my dream school ever since.
Where did the inspiration for your latest collection come from?
The inspiration behind my latest fashion collection, Lasso & Luxe, came from a deeply personal place—my desire to tell my parents’ love story through fashion. This Fall/Winter Women’s and Men’s Wear collection is rooted in my family’s heritage and reflects the union of two distinct cultures that shaped my identity as a designer. My father is from Mississippi, where Western culture—with its rugged charm, rich textures, and timeless traditions—is part of everyday life. In contrast, my mother embodies the glamour and sophistication of California, a state known for its Hollywood allure and bold style. Their marriage wasn’t just the joining of two individuals, but the merging of two very different worlds. Lasso & Luxe explores that contrast, fusing rustic Southern elegance with refined Californian polish. The collection is a visual narrative—woven with textured fabrics, layered silhouettes, and a rich color palette—that captures both the grit and grace of my roots. In creating this collection, I saw a reflection of myself: a tapestry of cultures, a love story expressed in design, and a tribute to the legacy of where I come from.
How can people find your designs?
Currently, my designs can be viewed on my Instagram page, where I regularly share my latest work. I offer custom garments tailored to each client’s individual style, as well as alterations to ensure the perfect fit. For commissions, inquiries, or collaboration opportunities, feel free to reach out via Instagram or contact me directly at macklathamstudio@gmail.com
What are your favorite fabrics that work with? Colors?
Some of my favorite fabrics to work with include leather, faux fur, suede, wool, silk, and cotton. I’m drawn to these materials because of their versatility, texture, and the way they can bring both structure and movement to a garment. Each fabric allows me to explore different aspects of storytelling through design—whether it's the boldness of leather, the softness of silk, or the timeless comfort of cotton.
Who is your mentor or mentors?
For my most recent collection, I had the privilege of being mentored by several influential figures. Simon Ungless, founder of When Simon Met Ralph, offered invaluable creative insight and industry expertise that helped shape my approach to design. I also worked closely with my senior professor at SCAD, Yasha Morehouse, whose guidance and mentorship pushed me to refine my vision and elevate my technical skills. In addition to my academic and industry mentors, I consider my father, Tony Latham, one of my most important supporters and mentors. He not only offers thoughtful guidance on business decisions but also reminds me to enjoy the creative process and stay true to my passion for design. His support has been a constant source of motivation throughout my journey.
Favorite fashion quote.
Laquan Smith
“I want to create pieces that make people feel empowered and ready to conquer the world.”
What’s next for Cyerra?
Looking ahead, I am incredibly excited to enter the fashion industry by developing my own business focused on creating custom pieces tailored to my clients’ unique styles. At the same time, I plan to work with an established brand to gain hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the production process. So I can refine my skills and broaden my industry knowledge. Ultimately, my long-term goal is to build my own fashion manufacturing company, Mack Latham Studios, where I can combine creativity with innovation to produce high-quality, meaningful designs. I am passionate about creating a brand that not only reflects my vision but also supports sustainable practices and empowers other creatives along the way.