Designer Interview: Mark Shroyer (BALBY) Promoting Inclusion and Diversity in the Fashion Space

Ava Rottman in BALBY, photographed by Laron Van Allen-Gillbert

BALBY studied painting at Metropolitan State College. Through his schooling, he was able to explore different art mediums including fiber arts, sculpture, performance art and more. This led to his interest in creating art that people can live and experience, and to become a designer.

“Making clothes gave me the opportunity to create art that is personal and functional, while still indulging in the creativity.”

BALBY began his journey during his and his husband’s drag experience. 

“It enabled me to make a quantity of things in many different styles and start to explore [my] personal style.”

Through drag, he has created connections with tons of drag queens, including RuPaul's Drag Race winners (both from Colorado), Yvie Oddly, and Willow Pill. He also started designing for the 2024 Denver Fashion Week.

“I am very proud to represent Colorado. My work evolved into custom commissions for drag queens across the states, and working runway allows me to express my own personal ideas.”

Rue Murray wearing BALBY, photographed by Gabi Linke

Using world-building and themes to tell stories through his designs, Ringmaster was the perfect match for BALBY. 

“Some looks explore tangents within the theme. Circus has always been an inspiration from the start. Working with performers, I have often referenced [the] circus. As a queer person the circus represents chosen family and inclusion through diversity.”

While following the circus side of Ringmaster was familiar for BALBY, getting to challenge himself with the other half, militant, provided a familial recognition and appreciation.

Ethan Maben in BALBY, photographed by Laron Van Allen-Gillbert

“I have pulled inspiration from my grandparents, who have served in the military. I love looking at old photos of my grandparents in their uniforms and feeling proud of their service. One grandparent who served was also a tailor. My family believes I got my sewing skills from my great-grandpa, which feels very cool since I did not get to know him well.”

BALBY plans on continuing his career to include more fashion shows, as he enjoys larger-scale projects. His brand promotes extreme inclusion and diversity in the fashion industry while creating autonomy for models.

Aurore Muzibu, behind the scenes, in BALBY, photographed by Sutton Raeburn

“It’s important to me to give agency to the models, photographers, and hair and makeup team, as it is [crucial] that they are also invested in the vision and feel that they were represented well.”

Catch Mark Shroyer’s bold take on the circus and militant designs in Roam’s 2025 fashion show, Ringmaster. To see more, follow him on Instagram @imbalby.