From legal studies to luxurious custom outfits, Slayed by Ten's journey reveals the power of
passion and persistence.
In a cozy studio nestled in Scarborough, Ontario, Tenisha Thompson – better known as Slayed
by Ten – meticulously sews and styles one-of-a-kind outfits that celebrate the power of self-
expression. What began as a personal project while studying law has since blossomed into a
thriving business, where each stitch, seam, and detail carries her vision and commitment to her
clients. For Tenisha, fashion is more than clothing; it’s a medium through which she empowers
women to embrace their unique style.
Tenisha’s path to becoming a designer wasn’t straightforward. Originally, her ambitions lay in
law, and she spent years studying to become an attorney. "I was deep into my law studies," she
recalls, "but I’d always had this creative urge. Sewing was my outlet, my way to express myself
when I needed a break from books and exams." Sewing began as a quiet escape, a creative
corner she carved out amid the demands of law school.
Starting with simple designs, Tenisha gradually refined her skills, experimenting with cuts and
materials that brought her ideas to life. "At first, it was just for me – clothes that felt like me,"
she explains. However, it wasn’t long before her unique style caught the attention of friends
and classmates. People began asking her about her outfits, surprised to learn they were
custom-made. "They’d say, ‘You made that?’ And I’d see this mix of shock and admiration. It
was flattering, but it also planted a seed," she says, smiling.
Word of mouth quickly spread, and soon Tenisha found herself taking requests. Friends wanted
unique pieces for special occasions, and strangers reached out after seeing her designs on social
media. With each new request, her passion grew stronger, and she found herself at a
crossroads. "I was torn between continuing down the safe, stable path of law or taking a leap
into something completely different," she shares. The decision wasn’t easy, but ultimately, her
heart led her toward fashion.
Transitioning from law student to full-time designer wasn’t without challenges. "Leaving law
felt like jumping off a cliff," she admits. "It was terrifying, but the thrill of creating outweighed
the fear." Despite her initial hesitation, her legal background became an unexpected asset.
"Law taught me discipline and attention to detail – both of which are crucial in fashion," she
notes. These skills helped her build a strong foundation as she tackled the realities of running a
small business, from client management to logistics.
As her brand, Slayed by Ten, began to grow, Tenisha was committed to staying rooted in
Scarborough. "This community is part of who I am. There’s so much talent and creativity here
that often gets overlooked," she says passionately. By building her business locally, she’s
helping to redefine fashion for her community, bringing high-quality custom designs to clients
who might otherwise look to big cities or international brands.
Her clients, who often come seeking something unique and personal, resonate with her vision.
"People aren’t just looking for clothes – they’re looking for confidence, for a way to express
who they are," she explains. Tenisha’s designs are about more than style; they’re about self-
expression and empowerment. Each piece is custom-made, tailored not only to the client’s
measurements but to their personality. "I want every woman to feel like the best version of
herself when she wears something I’ve made," she says.
Creating a custom piece isn’t just about following trends or making something fashionable; for
Tenisha, it’s a collaboration. "When a client comes to me, we start with a conversation," she
says. "I want to know what inspires them, how they want to feel in the outfit." She spends time
sketching, sourcing fabrics, and perfecting details to bring her client’s vision to life. "It’s a
process, and it takes time, but that’s what makes each piece special," she adds.
This commitment to craft has built her a loyal client base, and with each new design, her
reputation grows. Her work, which spans everything from formal gowns to edgy streetwear, has
a distinctive style – bold, structured, and undeniably feminine. "I love playing with contrasts,"
she says. "Soft fabrics against sharp cuts, or classic silhouettes with unexpected details."
As she looks to the future, Tenisha has ambitious plans for Slayed by Ten. "I want to continue
growing, maybe even expand beyond custom designs," she says thoughtfully. She dreams of
launching a ready-to-wear line that captures the essence of her custom work but makes it
accessible to a broader audience. "Fashion shouldn’t be exclusive. I want every woman, no
matter her background, to feel she can find something that speaks to her," she shares.
Her vision extends beyond her business; Tenisha hopes to give back to her community by
mentoring aspiring designers in Scarborough. "I didn’t have a lot of resources when I started,
but I had passion," she reflects. She wants to create workshops and mentorship opportunities,
helping young designers find their footing in an industry that can often feel impenetrable. "If I
can pave the way for others, then my journey will mean that much more," she says.
Tenisha Thompson’s journey from law student to Scarborough’s custom fashion icon is a
testament to following one’s passion and embracing the unknown. With each custom piece,
she’s not only creating beautiful outfits but crafting a narrative of courage, creativity, and
community. Through Slayed by Ten, Tenisha continues to empower women, reminding them –
and herself – that true style is stitched from purpose and passion.
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