When one thinks of fashion and beauty, usually cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami come to mind, not Raleigh, NC. But, this budding and thriving city is climbing the ranks as a pioneer in the fashion industry. One of those companies, who is contributing to putting Raleigh on the map for inspiring beauty and fashion, is Nyla Elise Clothing Co. Named after his daughter, owner Ricky Moore, says, “95% of the garments are manufactured, including the cotton, here in North Carolina.” Supporting local businesses is important to Nyla Elise, as they are a true grassroots company, while Moore hand prints each shirt so each piece of clothing has a personal touch to it. Hard work, drive and determination have turned this company into a well-known brand. Moore started out creating the company in a one-bedroom apartment, now one can find celebrities like Kevin Hart, George Lopez and Chuck D wearing the Nyla Elise brand and supporting the company. What sets the company apart is their goal to create something that anyone and everyone can wear. “Our clothes are made for everyone, young to old, valedictorians, skateboarders, captains of the chess team, etc. I want the shirts to represent everyone as a community no matter your walk of life or lifestyle!”
Another company pioneering themselves in the Raleigh fashion arena is Raleigh Denim Workshop. Situated in downtown Raleigh, the workshop is run by husband and wife team Victor Lytvinenko and Sarah Yarborough. Through careful, crafted learning of the history and techniques of traditional jeans making, the workshop’s jeans, collection and accessories are all produced in the US only with a fine focus on design, process and material. People can visit their workshop and experience the jeans making process in action as well as shop their jeans, accessories and jewelry in the curatory, which is located in front of their workshop. Raleigh isn’t their only location; they also have a New York City flagship store.
Vestique, a women’s clothing boutique on Oberlin Road in Raleigh, has had major success and went on to open other locations including several throughout North and South Carolina. With trendy, modern and chic clothing and accessories, the store also holds events such as “Wine Down Wednesday” which is held the first Wednesday of every month. The store provides complimentary wine, while customers shop and receive 10% off their purchase. They also do “Medical Monday”, which is the second Monday of each month, which allows nurses, doctors and anyone working in the medical field can show their badge to receive 10% off their entire purchase.
Style, innovation and community involvement helps make these companies and so many others in the area thrive in the beauty and fashion world.
For more information, please visit: www.nylaelise.com, www.raleighworkshop.com and www.vestique.com.
