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

Hi Crystal, what inspired you to create ISSA DAVII?
ISSA DAVII is my love letter to my ancestors. It’s not just a clothing brand—it’s a living tribute to those who came before me, whose resilience, artistry, and sacrifices shaped my existence. Fashion is my medium, but the purpose runs deeper: to preserve, honor, and amplify the voices and stories that have been overlooked or forgotten.

Everything I create carries their energy. ISSA DAVII is about legacy, culture, and storytelling, it’s wearable history. My work is inspired by my lineage, the vibrancy of music, the depth of human connection, and the raw power of personal expression. I want every piece to evoke emotion, to make people feel something real.

My uncle, David, was a fashion designer in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, and his battle with AIDS shaped my understanding of both loss and legacy. His vision fuels mine, and I hope to continue what he started in a way that uplifts and empowers.

What should people know about ISSA DAVII?
ISSA DAVII is unapologetic, intentional, and deeply personal. This brand isn’t about chasing trends, it’s about creating something timeless, something that speaks to the soul. Every collection tells a story, woven with meaning and cultural significance.

I don’t believe in mass production for the sake of consumption. I believe in craftsmanship, energy, and honoring the process. My designs blend high fashion, streetwear, and spiritual symbolism, making each piece a statement of both identity and history.

This brand is for those who carry their ancestors with them. For those who see fashion as more than fabric—it’s art, it’s protest, it’s remembrance.

What’s your ideal day in LA?
An ideal day is all about balance, joy, and connection. I’ll start the morning with prayer and a coffee, along with hot yoga, allowing movement to ground me and set my energy for the day. Then, I sit by the ocean, letting the waves bring a sense of peace and renewal. There’s nothing better than laughing with friends over a great meal, savoring delicious food that nourishes both body and soul. And on Sundays, you’ll find me at church, realigning spiritually and pouring into my faith. These moments keep me inspired, centered, and in tune with my purpose.

Who do you want to dedicate your journey to?
I dedicate ISSA DAVII to my ancestors. Their strength, wisdom, and artistry live on through this work. Every stitch, every detail, every vision is for them. This is a legacy in motion.

This is only the beginning.

Website:  issadavii.com

Instagram: @issadavii

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