Cali Shabazz

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About Cali Shabazz

Cali Shabazz is the founder and CEO of Dear Laney. Shabazz’s love for vintage and the stories behind the clothes explain the creation of a clothing line through Laney’s love story. “I love all things vintage and it inspires me,” says Shabazz. “I have a vintage collection of dresses and jewelry I could never part with. It amazes me how a garment from the early 60's or even the 18th century could still be around today. I always wonder whowore it, where they were going, what they were like.” Dear Laney was started to pay homage to Cali’s grandfather Laney who passed away in 2012. “I've always adored his name and wanted to name my daughter Laney if I were to ever have one. I decided after his passing to name my business after him and wrote my first love letter, Dear Laney’s letter, from a man named Dylan who I would use to create the characters in my story,” she explains. “Dylan is actually the man of my dreams. I used my inspiration to create Laney’s inspiration.” A Philadelphia native, Cali Shabazz is also a trained dancer and violinist. Creative at heart, her passion for fashion started at a young age. “I've always loved fashions. My earliest memory is sneaking into my grandmother's closet, putting on make up and falling head over heels for her gorgeous jewelry and clothing which sparked my love for vintage. I used to dress up my little sister and cousins putting on fashion shows and taking pictures of them with my Polaroid for years.” Like Laney, Cali Shabazz continues to expand her talents through learning and exploring different ideas and opportunities. “I've read books and did extensive research on how I could create a brand and how to make if different from what is already here while staying true to my passion for vintage and my love for love. This is where Dear Laney fits into my life.”