Today we’d like to introduce you to Raquel Reed.
Hi Raquel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Oh wow, where do I even start! While everyone else in high school was trying to figure out their path, I already knew: I was going to be a fashion designer. I moved to Atlanta in 2005 with that wide-eyed dream of taking over the world of fashion. Of course, life had a different timeline!
My journey has been a masterclass in ‘working your way up.’ I’ve worn every hat—from working in music publications and winning Fashion Designer of the Year at the RAW Awards in 2012, to merchandising for multi-million dollar corporations. After COVID, I took the leap into working for myself full-time. Since then, it’s been a whirlwind; I’ve had the honor of being on tour with powerhouses like Cardi B, Tems, and Latto. It’s been a long road from 2005, but every step was necessary to get me here.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Absolutely not! It’s been an uphill battle, but honestly? I’m fine with that. It built my character. One of the biggest realizations was that the fashion industry can be incredibly hard to penetrate—it often feels like a ‘rich kid sport.’ Coming from a different background, I had to be more than just a designer; I had to be a strategist. I opened my alterations and tailoring business to ensure a steady revenue stream, which allowed me the creative freedom to continue pushing my custom brand. I had to build my own door instead of waiting for someone to open one.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Fashion Designer and a Master Tailor. I specialize in both, and I truly adore both. While many people focus only on the ‘look’ of a garment, my expertise is in the construction. I’m known for that perfect, custom fit—the kind of precision that is required when you’re dressing stars for the world stage.
I am most proud of my resilience. There were so many moments where things didn’t go as planned, but I refused to give up. I kept going when the road got quiet. Staying in the game is half the battle, and I’m still here, still creating, and still growing.
What sets me apart is the depth of my technical knowledge. I’m not just a creator’ in theory—I’m a Master Tailor. I understand the architecture of clothing. I can take a vision and translate it into a garment that fits a person’s body perfectly. That bridge between high-concept design and technical execution is where I thrive.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
People see the serious, focused tailor/designer behind the sewing machine, but what they might not know is that I live to dance! If there is music playing—anywhere, at any time—I am going to move. Whether I’m getting dressed for an event or working in the studio, the music is on and I’m definitely dancing!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.raquelthelabel.com
Raquel-the-label.square.site - Instagram: raquelreed__
- Facebook: raquelthelabel
- Youtube: raquelthelabel
Image Credits
Photos # 1-6 are of my brand – RAQUEL THE LABEL
Photo #7 – is of DeVon Franklin going to Tyler Perry’s Christmas Party in Atlanta. Did the tailoring for his attire that night
Photo # 8 – “The Q Motif BIG BAG” by RAQUEL THE LABEL
