Some of life’s most remarkable creations begin with simple pieces—flour and eggs become cookies, threads and fabric become clothing, and moments and choices weave the fabric of who we are. For Flint native Na’Ziya Lewis, it didn’t take long to stitch together her passion, talent and entrepreneurial spirit into something extraordinary.
At just 6 years old, Lewis was already redesigning the wardrobe of her Barbie dolls using socks and scissors. That early curiosity quickly grew into something greater. Over the years, she took customer orders, taught herself complex techniques, launched her own brand — Nailuxe — and participated in more than 20 fashion shows. She even crafted her own prom dress. And now, her story, which has inspired local communities and caught the attention of news outlets, is reaching new heights: in October, Lewis will make her international debut in Paris, showcasing 10 custom, handmade garments on the runway.
“I am far beyond excited and honored to be the first teen from my city to ever showcase a lineup on the runway in Paris,” she says. “Just to have the experience as a whole is surreal.”
Na’Ziya Lewis (center), Nailuxe CEO, guides youth models in St. Louis, Missouri.
A Vision Fueled by Self-Expression
From the beginning, Lewis’s designs have centered on individuality. She recalls times when she was told she was “too extra” for wearing what she liked. “It caused me to settle for clothes that didn’t really represent me,” she said. “Now looking back, I’ve realized there’s no such thing as ‘doing too much’ when you’re simply being you.”
This philosophy now fuels her mission: not only to express herself through fashion, but also to help others embrace their authentic style. That mission became the foundation of Nailuxe — her brand built on creativity, self-confidence and custom work.
Tapestry, Trend & Technique
Though she designs everything from formalwear to custom sneakers, one style stands out as her signature: tapestry garments. Think intricately patterned blankets reborn as statement pieces—hoodies, joggers, two-pieces, even gowns. The style is warm, bold, sustainable and on-trend — especially heading into fall.
“Tapestry is by far my most popular and trending type of order,” she said. “It’s stylish, comfortable and eco-friendly.”
Tapestry fashion checks all the boxes: it’s eye-catching, it celebrates upcycling, and it allows wearers to literally wrap themselves in something one-of-a-kind.
Sewing, Showing & Sharing
Lewis’ success wasn’t handed to her. Her early days of self-teaching and sewing by hand were tough, but she pressed on — driven by passion and supported by a gifted sewing machine. Just months after completing her first customer order in December 2023, she landed her first fashion show. Less than a year later, she’s headed to Paris Fashion Week, not only as a designer but as a model in her own show, as well.
With all this momentum, Lewis isn’t slowing down. One of her next big goals? Teaching others. “I’ve had so many people ask for classes — even people from out of state,” she said. “That’s definitely one of my main focal points moving forward.”
She also plans to revisit another creative love: music. Though less widely known than her fashion work, Lewis’ artistry extends to songwriting and performance — something she hopes to explore more deeply now that she graduated from Michigan Great Lakes Virtual Academy (MGLVA) this past June.
A Journey in Every Stitch
Every design, every show, every challenge and triumph has led Lewis to this moment. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and a refusal to shrink herself to fit into someone else’s vision of what’s “too much.”
“From my first order in December 2023, to my first show as a designer in 2024, to now being recognized internationally — it’s such a great feeling,” she said. “It’s amazing how much can be accomplished in such a short time.”
Follow Her Thread
To see more of Na’Ziya Lewis’ work, follow her on Instagram @naziyalanai_, TikTok @ziyaalanaii_, or Facebook under Ziyaa Lanai. A dedicated website is also in the works. Just search “Na’Ziya Lewis” to explore the journey of a rising star who’s redefining what it means to be stitched for success.
“I am far beyond excited and honored to be the first teen from my city to ever showcase a lineup on the runway in Paris!”
