Meet LaToya McInnis | CEO & Jewelry Designer

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

Hi LaToya, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My passion for jewelry runs deep—it feels like it’s always been a part of me. From admiring my mom’s and aunts’ bold ’80s jewelry to envisioning buttons as earrings during my childhood, I was drawn to adornment from the start. As a freelance stylist, I instinctively reached for jewelry and accessories to transform looks. Whether it was adding a striking necklace or switching up buttons on a blazer, jewelry became my go-to for making outfits pop.

During my 8-year tenure as a Jewelry Merchandiser at Haskell Jewels—a hub for renowned brands like Kenneth Cole and Betsey Johnson—I was immersed in the world of jewelry. Surrounded by collections and launches, I developed close relationships with various lines, gaining invaluable insights into fashion jewelry trends. Constantly analyzing designs, I’d often think, “This would be perfect with a touch of this or that.” This experience honed my eye, allowing me to view jewelry through both consumer and aspiring designer lenses. Which helped me to not only understand jewelry, but inspired me to create COCOACENTRIC.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
My designs draw inspiration primarily from indigenous women and women of color—their essence, resilience, and inherent beauty. Music, film, pop culture, and the raw beauty of nature also influence my work, reflecting a blend of sophistication, boldness, and femininity.

What sets my designs apart is their ability to evoke deep emotions and nostalgia. They tap into cherished memories that resonate within us, eliciting tenderness and beauty. My creations are nostalgic yet fearless—imbued with a delicate boldness that celebrates beauty in all its forms.

I encountered numerous challenges on my journey to becoming the person I am today. I vividly recall my persistent efforts to secure a position with a major fashion brand, armed with my extensive experience. Interview after interview, I faced rejection and felt consistently overlooked. Despite this discouragement, I am immensely thankful for never wavering in my self-belief, even as those companies failed to recognize my worth. I am proud that I remained committed to learning, pushing forward, and steadfastly pursuing my desired path without ever giving up on myself and creating a brand out of passion and love for creativity.

The genesis of COCOACENTRIC stems from my Afrocentric upbringing and the desire to stay true to myself. I coined the term by substituting “AFRO” with “COCOA” after a serendipitous encounter with a chocolate article, while “CENTRIC” symbolizes being centered—a journey that has guided me through life’s challenges and growth. COCOACENTRIC embodies my commitment to self-acceptance, personal evolution, and creative expression.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Absolutely, I’d love to plan an amazing week-long itinerary for showing my best friend the best time in the area! Here’s a diverse mix of places and activities we’d enjoy:

Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration of San Francisco

Morning: Start with a delicious breakfast at a cozy local café like “Mama’s On Washington Square” to fuel up for the day.
Afternoon: Explore the city’s best shopping and vintage Boutiques like Relove on Polk Street or Closet 1951, or the Goodwill Boutique in West Portal. Then visiting landmarks like the historic The Palace of FIne Arts, and Coit Tower

Evening: Dinner at delicious restaurant “Elena” known for Mexican food, combined with California-inspired elements and signature Mexican-American dishes.
Day 2: Beach Day and Sunset Views down Highway 1 California Coast and pick up Fresh Oysters & Clam Chowder on the way back from Du West

Morning: Drive to the nearby coastal town for a day at the beach. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
Afternoon: Visit the local seafood spot for a fresh seafood lunch with ocean views.
Evening: Head back to catch the sunset at “Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur,,” a scenic lookout offering breathtaking coastal vistas and huge rocks
Day 3: Outdoor Adventure

Morning: Embark on a hiking trip at Mt. Tamapais” or Tenessee Valley Trail for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Afternoon: Stop for a casual lunch at Sol Food, Mill Valley for the best Puerto Rican food in the Bay Area
Evening: Relax with a bonfire and stargazing session in the evening.
Day 4: Cultural Experience in China Town for Dim Sum and Sticky Buns

Morning: Visit the De Young museum or MOAD San Francisco for some incredible art and inspiration.
Afternoon: Lunch at Minnie Bells in the Historic Fillmore for some fried chicken and peach cobbler!
Evening: Attend a live music performance at Yoshi’s Oakland or enjoy a live band at the Black Cat Jazz Supper Club

Day 5: Winery Tour

Morning: Take a scenic drive to the wine country and indulge in a winery tour and tasting at Domaine Carneros
Afternoon: Enjoy an elegent lunch at RH Yountville
Evening: Return to watch the sunset over the vineyards.

Day 6: Explore More of The Wine Country

Morning: Explore a different neighborhood known for its eclectic shops and unique wines.
Afternoon: Stop for a quick bite at a food truck or local pizzzeria
Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife scene with dinner at a rooftop bar followed by live music Blue Note Napa
Day 7: Spa Day and Farewell

Morning: Treat ourselves to a relaxing spa day with massages and wellness treatments.
Afternoon: Have a farewell lunch at a scenic waterfront restaurant.
Evening: Wrap up the trip with a sunset walk along the harbor.
This itinerary offers a mix of local flavor, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxation—ensuring an unforgettable week filled with fun and exploration!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

I dedicate this story to my mom and dad, whose everyday ensembles and expressions unknowingly exposed me to boundless creativity and flair. Witnessing their freedom of expression through fashion opened my eyes to incredible imagination and infinite possibilities in style.

Website: www.cocoacentric.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cocoacentric/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latoya-l-mcinnis-60b7aa9b/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/cocoacentric

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cocoacentric/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGyKWPTojBJpFV3WGsljqAw

Other: Google: COCOACENTRIC

Image Credits
Photography: Shatre Pickney, Mike Muse, MUA: Chiara Beauty, Onni Viola Models: Inez Schynell & Natalia Dise Stylist : LaToya McInnis & Ginnie O