Desiree Murphy lives in a small apartment with her boyfriend and dog in Buffalo, New York.  One unique trait about her…she loves designing and creating wearable works of art.

“When I was about 10 years old I started drawing people with different clothing on. I would show them to my mother and she always told me 'keep drawing and you will go far.' I never understood what she meant until a few years after college. It's so funny because I still have some of the drawings from when I was a child. It's nice to look back and see how far I've come.”

When she's not designing clothes, Desiree is having fun living life like everyone else. “I enjoy singing and dancing - both which I am not very good at, but I pretend.” She also loves spending time enjoying nature, taking walks and sipping hot tea.

“Fashion is everything to me. Everywhere I look I get inspired. It's the most amazing feeling when I create something and then I see someone wearing it. I couldn't imagine my life without fashion.”

At 17 years old Desiree has already been featured in a fashion show where she was the youngest designer in attendance. Now, with two shows under her belt, she is grateful for her accomplishments and maintains a positive attitude in what is known as a very competitive industry.

“My biggest struggle as a designer is getting noticed. It's hard to get your stuff out there, but I keep pushing and hopefully my chance will come. I keep my chin up and push on forward.”

Her all time favorite designer is Gianni Versace, but her runner-up is Michael Kors. “My inspiration comes from everywhere. When I go outside I almost always am inspired by nature's beauty. Music also inspires me a lot as well. Different songs and genres create a different feeling. I like to find beauty in everything and then run with it.”

She lives for designing and finds an abundance of joy just in having others wear her fashions. “The thing I love most about being a designer is the gratitude I feel when someone purchases and wears one of my garments. It really is the best feeling. When I get asked what I dislike about being a designer I am always lost for words. I don't think that there is anything I don't absolutely love about designing. I live for it and I love every single step of the way.”

Desiree ends the interview with these words of wisdom: “In closing, my greatest advice for aspiring designers is to never give up. If you have the passion, keep moving forward and you will persevere.”

Desiree Murphy’s company, Dmattliano is featured on UsTrendy, where you will find her portfolio and blogs.