Nearly seven years ago, Zakiya Shivers moved back to the United States after a few years in China. While in between jobs, she noticed she had a bunch of clothes that needed a home. She made the decision to open an Ebay account. A year later, she started an Etsy account. By 2012, she opened her first online store selling a combination of pieces made by her, thrift items and art.
Tightfisted Fashion is a Baltimore boutique where each piece is carefully screened with a keen eye. Often they inspire their customers to create new trends or revive old ones. The vintage haven provides a place for other small businesses to sell their merchandise. It’s just not another boutique in Baltimore. It’s an experiences with monthly events that connect fashion, arts and the community as one.
As a boutique owner in Charm City, Shivers is an avid supporter of small, Black-owned local businesses. One of her projects this year is finding a space where small local businesses can sell their merchandise weekly.