Celebrity Designer Jessica Hayes Brings Artistic Glamour to One of Her Specialties: Prom Season

By Je’Don Hollway Talley | For The Birmingham Times Jessica Hayes is no ordinary dressmaker. She’s a special occasions designer who learned to leverage skills she learned in architectural classes with her love for glamorous fashion—and now she creates what she describes as “wearable art.” “It’s the architecture of fashion,” Hayes said. “I have a keen eye for trends, I’m creative and innovative, and I love expressing my artistic vision through my designs.” Hayes, 31, started her fashion line, House of Avid, in 2016. She has since completed five full collections and is preparing for one of her specialties: prom season. Two months ago, she hosted her Seventh Annual Prom Queen Tour Pop-Up Shop in Center Point, Alabama. More than 100 girls stood in line to try on the 2024 House of Avid prom gown collection, from which more than 50 gowns were sold to Birmingham area girls. The House of Avid team conducted more than 20 custom consultations at the event, helping promgoers move their ideas from concepts to bona fide fashion designs. The dressmaker, who also specializes in creating custom ensembles, recalls her own senior prom. Hayes attended A.H. Parker High School, and the event was held at...