http://www.grahamervin.com/blog/meet-the-team-kira-jones-ownerdesigner-of-vandella-costumes

“In a studio lined wall-to-wall with a rainbow of fabrics, designer Kira Jones cuts, sews, and decorates fitness competition suits for athletes all over the world.

In 1997, Kira founded Vandella Costumes and began creating custom posing suits and costumes for amateur and professional bodybuilding, physique, fitness, figure, and bikini athletes. But this career path is no surprise because she has been sewing since the age of seven. Previously she had specialized in exotic dancewear, but made the transition into the fitness industry after connecting with NPC judge Terri Moore.

Kira makes hundreds of suits per year and has worked with a long list of IFBB professionals over the past 17 years and even a WWF wrestling PRO. “In 2009, I was surprised to see several of my designs on an E! Channelspecial called ‘Female Bodybuilders’ with clients Mary Bell and Tracy Beckham,” she said.

Each suit is handcrafted and takes many hours to construct with prices ranging from $200 to $1,500 depending on the complexity of the design.

“My goal is for each athlete to feel confident and poised in their suit on stage. I want competitors to have a suit they are proud to put on to show off their hard work at the gym,” said Kira.

The design process begins by visiting Kira’s studio in Swansea, South Carolina. Measurements are taken, then athletes choose from hundreds of fabric colors, rhinestones, and connectors to create a unique one-of-a-kind suit.

Kira attended the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) for fashion design. In her free time, she enjoys gardening and raising money for pet rescue foundations.

For more information about Kira Jones and Vandella Costumes, visit vandellacostumes.com or follow her onFacebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Check out the two suits she designed for me Ziggy andThe Peacock.”

Contact:
Vandella Costumes
671 Athens School Road
Swansea, SC 29160
803.926.9154