A family tragedy led Malieka Barner to launch a fashion business that encourages people to persevere through tough times.
Barner opened the All Smilez apparel store in Patrick Henry Mall in Newport News this year. She is the clothes designer, production manager and store operator. She started the clothing line after her cousin was killed at age 13 in 2012.
“When my cousin was killed, it really affected my whole family. I wanted to do something positive,” Barner said. “I have younger siblings too. I want to be a good example for them. My store is more than just a clothing brand. I am on a mission to spread positivity and encourage smiles no matter how tough times get and to stop gun violence.”
In fact, the company’s mission statement says: “The mission of All $milez Clothing brand is to raise awareness to all the violence that’s happening in our community and put a stop to it.”
Clothing is not the only way Barner gets her message across. She served on a panel discussion about ending gun violence at the Hampton Roads Convention Center in July.
“This issue has deeply influenced the growth of my brand, and I’m honored to be part of such an important discussion,” she wrote on Facebook.
Her tagline, “no matter what you go through, smile,” is on T-shirts and hoodies. And each year, she gives her clothes to children in need.
“I want to do something positive for them — to show there is kindness in the world,” Barner said.
The Hampton native has been dabbling in fashion design since middle school. Upon a recommendation from her Phoebus High School guidance counselor, she took a marketing and business class that opened her eyes to the business of fashion.
“I enjoyed that class the most,” she said.
She started selling her products with vendor tables at various places, including the mall. Her clothing styles include stacked pants, shirts and hats. Many are stone- and acid-washed.
The clothes are manufactured in China and Pakistan. Barner learned about having clothes made there while living in Arizona when a friend told her about sending the work abroad.
Colors are mostly black, blue, gray, white and red. She is now beginning to work with pinks, purples and other pastels. Barner also recently ventured into sunglasses design.
“She creates fashion that not only looks good but feels good, offering high-quality, stylish clothing at affordable prices,” customer and marketing specialist Jacqueline Tammaro said.
For more information, visit allsmilezstore.com or facebook.com/AllSmilezclothing/.
