Tracy Reese, Our Premier Fashion Designer, is on a Mission

In a fashion era stuck in neutral, she built a billion-dollar business selling vibrancy, joy and femininity. Today, her sustainable style is a beautiful thing.

By

Harriette Cole

 
Published October 08, 2024
Fashion Designer Tracy Reese in her studio poses for a portrait for Sisters Newsletter
NICK HAGEN

Hailing from Detroit, Tracy Reese moved to New York City and went to Parsons School of Design. She refined her skills on Seventh Avenue, working for companies such as Martine Sitbon, Arlequin, Perry Ellis and Magaschoni, eventually starting her own eponymous brand that blossomed into a billion-dollar global enterprise over the course of 20+ years.

At her company's peak, when she had the additional brands Plenty, Frock! and Black Label as well as numerous collaborations with accessories companies in her stable, she pivoted to create a smaller, sustainable brand, Hope for Flowers, that fortifies her local community and is good for the planet.

Sister’s guest editor Harriette Cole sat down with Tracy Reese to talk about her career.

Harriette Cole is the author of seven books, including How to Be and a former editor-in-chief of Ebony magazine. Cole has worked for more than 30 years to help people present themselves well through media executive and presentation training. Cole hosts the weekly podcast, DREAMLEAPERS®, that unlocks the secrets of people who are manifesting their dreams. She interviewed Sheryl Lee Ralph for the August, September 2023, issue of AARP The Magazine. Since 2020, Cole has hosted Real Conversations with AARP where she's interviewed such notables as Henry Louis Gates, Jr., Iyanla Vanzant, Aunjanue Ellis, Boris Kodjoe and Nicole Ari Parker, Ruth E. Carter, David and Tamala Mann and others.

Get the Must-Read Newsletter That Celebrates Black Women

Sign up for the free weekly newsletter with the latest stories, expert advice, community updates, and more.

Subscribe

More from Sisters

AARP Dynamic A Logo

More for you, from AARP

We are a community from AARP. Discover more ways AARP can help you live well, navigate life, save money — and protect older Americans on issues that matter.