Two-time Emmy and Three-NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Montee Tayion Holland.
📝 Summary of the Interview
Montee Holland, a Detroit native and former Marine, shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful fashion entrepreneur. As the founder of the Tayion Collection, a high-end fashion brand, Holland discusses how his experiences—from admiring stylish mentors in Detroit to designing custom garments while stationed overseas—shaped his vision. He explains the business side of fashion, including licensing, manufacturing, and retail partnerships, and highlights his recent collaboration with Macy’s to create tailored apparel for Black fraternities and sororities. Holland also emphasizes his philanthropic work, mentoring young men and securing scholarships, and outlines his plans to expand his brand globally.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
- To showcase Monte Holland’s entrepreneurial journey in the fashion industry.
- To highlight the creation and growth of the Tayion Collection.
- To educate listeners on fashion business fundamentals, including licensing and retail strategy.
- To inspire others through Holland’s commitment to community and mentorship.
- To promote his recent partnership with Macy’s and future brand expansion.
🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Origins and Inspiration
- Grew up in Detroit, inspired by well-dressed coaches and Motown fashion culture.
- Fashion was seen as an extension of personality, especially in Detroit.
- Quote: “If you look good, you feel good.”
2. Military Influence
- While stationed overseas, Holland designed custom garments using local tailors.
- This experience laid the foundation for his fashion design skills.
3. Business Acumen and Growth
- Started selling to specialty stores before expanding to big-box retailers like Macy’s.
- Learned the hard way about manufacturing costs, tracking inventory, and business operations.
- Quote: “You can have the hottest garments in the world, but if you don’t understand the business, you will fail.”
4. Licensing Explained
- Licensing allows brands to scale without bearing full production costs.
- Quote: “Would you rather have all of $1 million or 10% of $100 million?”
5. Macy’s Partnership
- Collaborated with Macy’s to create tailored apparel for Black Greek organizations.
- Focused on using signature colors without logos to make pieces versatile.
- Quote: “If you know, you know. If you don’t, it’s just a cool purple jacket.”
6. Philanthropy and Mentorship
- Secured over 60 full-ride scholarships for young men.
- Mentors students through college and into entrepreneurship or career paths.
- Quote: “I fell in love with securing scholarships for young African-American boys.”
7. Vision and Expansion
- Plans to expand into women’s fashion, casual wear, and international markets.
- Aspires to build a legacy brand akin to Ralph Lauren or Tom Ford.
- Quote: “There is no mountaintop. I want to build a brand that lasts for generations.”
💬 Notable Quotes
- “I am my customer. I make things I would be proud to wear.”
- “That little voice in your head is your gift. You have to listen to it.”
- “We want to take this thing abroad and grow it like a heritage brand.”
- “Fashion is not just about clothes—it’s about community, culture, and confidence.”
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