5 Minutes with Designer of De-Mes 'Tiks New York: Reuben Reuel

De-Mes'Tiks New York by Reuben Reuel was birthed in 2010, but it was reintroduced with a new approach in 2011. Reuben's main goal was to produce beautiful clothing for people. His mission is to utilize fabrics, notions and trims found here in NYC in local fabric stores and to use manufactures based in NYC to promote the "Made in USA" movement. Reuben Reuel's motto that he lives by is, "Live to create, create to live". 

 

The dapper, amazing designer, Reuben Reuel (above) 

Erin Bleakley: How did you get people interested in supporting your company?

Reuben Reuel: I opened my shop on Etsy and just waited and watched. I think my customers are just attracted to the rareness and uniqueness of my designs and the fabrics/prints. i truly believe people are supporting small business more and more. After I received a few sales and began to get positive responses and feedback on the garments, I started to feel a little more confident in the products. Then blogger started to contact me to feature my work which helped promote my business even more. 

EB: What inspires you?

RR: I'm inspired by colors, prints, textures, and quality fabrics. Fabrics have a way of speaking to me, then I design around what the fabric tells me to do with it. I am also inspired by personal styles and culture. I live in NYC so I always keep my eyes open to see what people are wearing and how I can incorporate street style in to my design aesthetic.

EB: What does your studio space look like?

RR: I work from home, so my studio space is fairly small. So everything is organized and has its own place.

EB: Do you make all of your garments yourself or is it manufactured?

RR: I have make ALL of the garments thus far. All of the items are made to order. I am responsible for every step necessary to complete a garment: from purchasing the fabric  to shipping the finished goods to the customer.

EB: How do you set your garments apart from the other similar garments on the market?

RR: I try to design unique pieces that the market really doesn't offer. A lot of what we see in the market is the same and follow trends too closely so it's hard for women to have something that it "different" from the next. My pieces are statement pieces that should immediately get attention and compliments. 

EB: What has been your best seller so far?

RR: The Naomi top is my best seller. I have made so many of them. Customers really love the dramatic bishop sleeves and peplum. 

EB: Where do you hope your company is in 5 years?

RR: In 5 years I hope my company will grow into a well known brand, not only selling clothing but also home interiors. 

EB: What is the last great book you've read?

RR: The Bible

I want to personally thank Reuben Reuel for taking time to answer these questions for us, and I wish him well in all his future endeavors! 

I also want to let you in on a secret: he gave my readers a 10% off discount using the code: DMNY10