Jente Carter
This designer is Turning dreams into passion
with Denim
Wardrobe: Denim by Jente
Hair by: Jente Carter
Makeup by: Rakia Smith
Photography by: Antoinne Duane Jones
I must say it's about time you and I connected lol. Good evening, everyone I'm here with the beautiful fashion designer / entrepreneur straight outta Dallas Texas Jente. How are you doing this evening?
I’m doing good. Thank you so much for having me this evening. How are you?
I'm fine thank you for asking, now what got you into designing and becoming a fashion designer? Also how long have you been doing this line of work?
What got me into designing was the loss of my daughter in 2013. I needed to turn my pain into something else. I’ve always loved fashion since I was a little girl, I even wrote it in my yearbook. “Class Of 05” Lincoln High School in Dallas Tx. Denim By Jente was established in November of 2017 in my bedroom in the corner on a nightstand dresser.
What is the fashion industry missing when it comes to curvy plus size women?
True Size Inclusivity: Many brands claim to be size-inclusive, but their extended sizes often stop at 3X or 24. This leaves out many plus-size women who require larger options. Brands should create a wider range of sizes with consistency in sizing to ensure fit across different styles.
Plus-size women often have fewer stylish and trendy options compared to straight sizes. Many brands offer basic or shapeless clothing, assuming that plus-size shoppers want to hide their bodies rather than embrace fashion-forward designs. There’s a need for more fashion-forward, edgy, and daring pieces that reflect a wide range of aesthetics.
When you hear the words Fearless Curves, what comes to mind?
“Fearless Curves” evokes a strong sense of confidence, empowerment, and embracing one’s body without apology. Celebrating curves and individuality, where the focus is on breaking free from traditional beauty standards and embracing bold, self-assured style. The words bring to mind imagery of plus size and curvy individuals proudly expressing themselves, feeling comfortable in their own skin, and wearing clothes that highlight their unique shapes with pride, confidence and individuality.
What inspired you to shift your focus toward creating one-of-a-kind, handcrafted denim pieces for plus-size women?
Shifting my focus towards more on one-of-a-kind, handcrafted denim pieces for plus-size women was inspired by the need for true individuality and representation in the fashion industry. Mass-produced clothing often lacks personality, and plus-size fashion, in particular, has been treated as an afterthought, with limited styles and poorly fitting options.
Creating unique, handcrafted denim pieces allows me to focus more on quality, craftsmanship, and the specific needs of plus-size bodies. It’s about offering something that speaks directly to the desire for style, self-expression, and confidence that many plus-size women have but often can’t find in the market.
By emphasizing one-of-a-kind pieces, it creates an opportunity to celebrate diversity in shape and style, offering something special that makes each person feel seen and valued. It’s also about bringing artistry back into fashion, creating pieces that tell a story and that customers can cherish as part of their own self-expression, knowing that what they wear is truly unique to them.
How do you ensure that each piece you design reflects the individuality and self-expression of the wearer?
I make sure that I’m always Involve the Customer in the Design Process. And, I also Offer consultations where we discuss their personal style, preferences, and what they’re looking for in a denim piece. Ask about their favorite fits, colors, and design details they’d like to see.
Wardrobe: Denim by Jente
Hair by: Jente Carter
Makeup by: Rakia Smith
Photography by: Antoinne Duane Jones
How do you approach the balance between comfort and aesthetics in your innovative denim designs for plus-size women?
Balancing comfort and aesthetics is about recognizing that plus size women want to feel as good as they look in their clothes. By focusing on fit, fabric, and thoughtful design, I create denim that doesn’t ask plus size women to choose between feeling great and looking great. It’s all about making each piece a reflection of both the wearer’s style and the comfort they deserve.
What role does your partnership with Weight Watchers and collaboration with SHEINX play in your brand’s mission and vision?
My partnerships with Weight Watchers and collaboration SHEINX complements my brand mission of making stylish, high-quality and positive fashion accessible to plus size women. They have allowed me to broaden my impact, share my message with new audiences and continue involving the landscape of the plus size fashion industry in a way that they are inclusive and empowering.
Who would you like to work with/collaborate with in the fashion industry?
Dapper Dan for sure. He’s on my bucket list of designers to work with. We have spoken on social media a few times, and I’m so grateful he’s getting the recognition that he deserves. One day we will collaborate, I’m speaking that into existence.
You’ve been recognized as Fashion Designer of the Year and a Raw Artist Designer. How do these accolades drive your passion for rebranding plus-size fashion?
Its feels amazing the recognition fuels a desire to create a lasting impact in the plus size fashion industry, where plus-size fashion is celebrated and included as a fundamental part of the fashion narrative. It inspires me to work hard towards the future where all bodies are represented and celebrated.
These accolades are not just personal achievements; they are powerful motivators that drive my passion for rebranding plus-size fashion. They enhance my commitment to creating innovative designs, advocating for inclusivity, and inspiring change in an industry that is ready for transformation.
Looking ahead, how do you plan to evolve your brand to continue meeting the needs of plus-size women seeking unique, high-fashion denim?
DBJ definitely plans on doing more personalized styling consultations or quizzes online that could truly help customers select pieces that best suits their individual style and body type, enhancing the shopping experience and building a deeper connection with the brand.
My goal for my brand is to Collaborate and partner with a few influencers, stylists, or other designers who share a commitment to plus-size fashion can amplify the brand’s reach and bring fresh perspectives to the design process. Collaborations can create buzz and attract new customers who resonate with those voices. The biggest goal right now is Working with Retailers: Expanding partnerships with retailers that align with the brand’s ethos that will help reach a wider audience. This could include pop-up shops or exclusive collections with boutiques that focus on inclusivity and body positivity.
I had fun tonight interviewing you, do you have any last words for your fans and the readers? Also please tell the people where they can find you and get there fashion right?
Never GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS. Write the vision and make it PLAIN.
Instagram: denim _by_jente
Facebook: Jente Carter
TikTok: denim_by_jente
YouTube: Styles By Jente
How do you ensure that each piece you design reflects the individuality and self-expression of the wearer?
I make sure that I always Involve the Customer in the Design Process. And, I also Offer consultations where we discuss their personal style, preferences, and what they’re looking for in a denim piece. I Ask about their favorite fits, colors, and design details they’d like to see.
Why and what made you want to start a denim brand?
Starting a denim brand that focuses on plus-size women, comes from a deep passion for both the craftsmanship of denim and a desire to fill a significant gap in the market.
I also wanted to address the Needs of Plus-Size Women:—The market for plus-size women’s clothing, particularly in denim, has often been overlooked or underserved. Many brands either don’t offer plus-size options or only do so as an afterthought, leading to poor fits and limited style choices.Denim, in particular, can be difficult to find in larger sizes that fit well, look stylish, and feel comfortable. Starting a brand that centers on plus-size women is about ensuring that they have access to denim that is both high-quality and fashionable, without having to compromise.
Can you tell us more about the craftsmanship and artistry involved in tailoring your garments specifically for curvier bodies?
The craftsmanship involved in creating denim from selecting the perfect weight and weave to applying washes, distressing, and finishing offers endless opportunities for creativity and experimentation. This hands-on, artisanal aspect of working with denim makes it the perfect medium for creating unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. The artistry in crafting denim for plus-size women lies in understanding that each curve tells a story and creating pieces that feel both intentional and effortless on the body. It’s about using technique and creativity to celebrate the uniqueness of every shape, making each piece a blend of style, comfort, and craftsmanship. Fabric Selection and Stretch plays a huge part in this process.
Sustainability is a key aspect of your brand. How do you source materials, and why is sustainability important to your mission?
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Sustainability is a crucial aspect of my brand because guiding the way materials are sourced and how the production process is handled. By offering sustainable made denim, I hope to empower customers to make mindful choices that align with their values. Knowing that their garments were created with care and consideration for the environment, can deepen their connection to the piece, making something truly special to their wardrobe.
What was the experience like showcasing your designs at New York Fashion Week, and how has it impacted your career as a designer?
NYFW is more than just showing clothes; it’s an opportunity to tell a story and convey a brand’s vision. The experience of being apart of a runway show allows a designer to craft a cohesive narrative, reflecting the inspiration behind the collection and the brand’s values, like size inclusivity and sustainability. NYFW increased my brand’s visibility, helping DBJ reach a wider audience and even international markets. It serves as a springboard for future growth, whether it’s expanding the collection, entering new markets, or exploring other creative projects.
Your work has been featured in notable outlets such as Billboard in Times Square and SitiGirl Magazine. How have these achievements influenced your brand's growth?
I would truly say being featured in such a high-profile location as Times Square offers immense exposure. Being seen on a Billboard there means that the brand reaches a diverse and global audience, helping to draw the attention of people who might not have encountered the brand otherwise.
It put my brand on a bigger stage, increasing awareness among potential customers, industry professionals, and media outlets. It was an honor to be featured in a magazine like SitiGirl it lends a sense of credibility and validation to the brand. Editorial recognition signals to readers and followers that the brand is worth paying attention to, providing a stamp of approval that can be especially impactful for emerging designers.
Wardrobe: Denim by Jente
Hair by: Jente Carter
Makeup by: Rakia Smith
Photography by: Antoinne Duane Jones
Wardrobe: Denim by Jente
Hair by: Jente Carter
Makeup by: Rakia Smith
Photography by: Antoinne Duane Jones