Belange Boulanger, a fashion designer from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, highlights the beauty of cultural fusion in her work while pursuing her dreams in the United States.

In a remarkable journey from the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the United States, fashion designer Belange Boulanger has successfully carved out a niche for herself in the global fashion industry. Her story, which began with a love for flowers during her childhood, has blossomed into a successful business that emphasizes the beauty of cultural fusion.

Boulanger’s passion for design took root when she began creating floral art from paper at an early age. The turning point in her journey came when she found a floral print dress at a Goodwill store. She transformed it into a purse that sparked interest among her classmates. “I went with that purse at school. One of my classmates saw it. She loved it, and she wanted me to make something for her,” Boulanger recalled. This moment marked the inception of her entrepreneurial spirit; her initiative led to a small business as other students began requesting custom-made clothing.

Despite her early success in the Congo, the perception of fashion as a viable career was less than encouraging. Boulanger noted, “In 2014, fashion design wasn’t seen as a serious career in the Congo.” However, her older sister recognized her potential and helped her name her business “Boulanger Handmade.” Driven by her aspirations, Boulanger moved nearly 8,000 miles to Iowa when she was just 18, where she had no acquaintances and did not speak English. To pursue her dreams, she enrolled at Des Moines Area Community College to study fashion design and merchandising.

Initially, Boulanger faced challenges in a region with a limited African demographic. “I had to do away with the traditional African prints and start designing different prints that blend like Western culture and Congolese culture,” she explained. After completing her studies at DMACC, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and later pursued a master’s degree in New York. Subsequently, Boulanger moved to California, where she worked on expanding her brand further.

Boulanger’s experience in the United States also revealed a nuanced reception to her background. She described how people often responded with pity upon learning she was from the Congo, which prompted her to think differently about how she presented her homeland. “I don’t think about anything beautiful coming out of Africa,” she stated, emphasizing her desire to highlight the rich natural beauty of her country.

In California, she discovered striking similarities between local flora and the plants native to the Congo. This revelation inspired her to craft designs that resonate with both Congolese nationals and American consumers. “I started designing flowers that people see here,” she reflected, noting that her work serves as a cultural bridge connecting different communities.

Boulanger’s efforts have garnered significant recognition. She was accepted into the Shein Incubator Program, which supports emerging creators in the fashion industry. Through this program, she has designed five collections comprising over 35 unique pieces. “One thing that is unique about the Shein program, it’s a slow fashion program. When we design, we only produce 100 pieces,” she explained, highlighting a sustainable approach to fashion.

At just 28 years old, Boulanger is simultaneously pursuing a PhD in Merchandising and Entrepreneurship while teaching undergraduate students at Iowa State University. Her goal is to become a full-time professor and encourage young individuals in Iowa to pursue their dreams, just as she did throughout her vibrant journey.

Her story stands as a testament to the intersection of culture, creativity, and determination in the fashion landscape, reflecting the diverse experiences of women making strides in their respective fields. The coverage by KCCI emphasizes the importance of recognizing the contributions of women like Boulanger who are shaping history and making a difference.

Source: Noah Wire Services