Meet Ashley Walter | Fashion Design and Nonprofit Associate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Walter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
Fashion is something I was interested in from a young age. I was just 13 when I set my sights on moving to New York and taking over the fashion world. Little did I know the atrocities that I would witness when I completed my goal to work in the industry. I once had a boss say to me, “I don’t care if we are using child labor, I just want my clothes produced on time.” Joking or not, I was shocked by this and many other things I witnessed. I then knew what I was ment to do, work torwards making the fashion industry a better place. Once I came back to Texas I came across the idea to take thrifted clothing and upcycle it to something new. By using items that have already been produced, I am able to divert them from the landfill and give the piece a new life.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Getting to where I was today has not been easy, as I am sure anyone who starts their own business would say! When I left New York, I never thought I would enter the garment industry again, but here I am. My mother and brothers are all very talented artist. When I was young and saw their work, I gave up on my dreams wondering how I could compete with people at their level. I learned to never let your own insecurities stop you. I want to inspire others to start a business as well!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Houston is such a vibrant city! I would take them to visit the Buffalo Bayou, the Cisterns, Mala Market, Asch Building, Sam Houston State Park and the Botanical Gardens. I would also take them to see the butterfly exhibit at the museum of natural science. For food and drinks, everyone needs to go to a good taqueria while here, not to mention some Jamaica! I love La Chingada Tacos and Tequila as well as La Lupita Taco Restaurant. Houston also has a large south east asian population with a thriving food scene. I love to explore new restaurants in and around Dun Huang plaza off bellaire. Maybe even a massage or karaoke after dinner!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The women who have come before me inspire me to keep going. My mother, grandmothers, and aunts did not have the same opportunities that I was allotted. I want to take their dreams and make them a reality. Every business I start is dedicated to them and women around the world!

Instagram: @alteredstrides

Other: You can find my products at Mala Market off west gray!