Meet MADE REESE | Creative Director & Designer

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

Hi MADE, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I have been blessed enough to experience things on both ends of the spectrum. I’ve been self employed and I’ve also had a corporate job. Though the corporate job provided me a level of stability, I always felt like I wanted to do more creative things with my time. I had a really, REALLY good job. Having this job allowed me to buy certain things I’ve always wanted and look out for family members in a way I hadn’t been able to. With that said, I still felt like something was missing. There’s a level of comfortability that comes with doing something that ultimately makes you happy. Being creative makes me the happiest. Being able to create for a living is the ultimate blessing.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The path in my journey has definitely been a very windy one. I was introduced to fashion by my parents. My Mom (LaShawn) and Dad (Glenn) were always fashionable. That said, my confidence was closely tied to my clothing since I was a kid. I’ve gotten to where I am today by keeping everything youthful. I say Yes to things that interest me. Even if the task is overwhelming…or if I’m unaware on how to complete the task, I ultimately challenge myself. None of this is easy. You have to bet on yourself everyday. Along the way I’ve failed many times. I’ve experienced moments of imposter syndrome and have gotten down on myself many times also. At the end of the day, I’m clear. It’s clear to me what makes me happy. I protect that happiness by continuing to work hard and prepare for current and future opportunities. My personal brand (Mister) and the work I’ve done over the last decade with other brands is a testament to that.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are so many new places to discover in the city. I’d probably take my best friend to the Short North. It’s the best of both worlds. You can get good food in the area and also find other places to socialize or grab a drink all in walking distance. Shopping; you got Sole Classics, Fera, Ransom Supply, Tact Luxe. Eating; you got So Cal, Domo, The Pearl. Social; Lincoln Social, Bodega, Terrace, Oddfellows. I’d just stay in that area and attack different things daily.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to recognize my little sisters, London & Giavonna. When I was at my lowest, they provided me the inspiration I needed. London always provides me with honest feedback on all my designs and participates in all my clothing release campaigns. I’d also like to thank Khanh Ngo for providing me with my first opportunity to create in a fashion space and always inspiring me. Everyone apart of the MADE & Co. family and my brother Greg who influenced me from a very early age.

Instagram: Godisanohioan

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reese-whitaker-2bb931164?trk=contact-info

Twitter: @madereese

Image Credits
Tyler Harris & Ryan Ransom