Conversations with Tai Cole-Jay

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tai Cole-Jay.

Hi Tai, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I had originally begun my journey into streetwear via a collective. Unfortunately, it would ultimately dissolve, forcing me to evolve or die. It would be at that point I began a solo journey with Kami Haus. Making things wouldn’t be enough for me, however. Simple screen printing onto shirts would evolve into me getting a sewing machine and tinkering with experimental approaches in order to achieve unique goals. I’ve always been into self-expression as opposed to following trends, so it came naturally when the goal was to try and stand out. Though I’m still learning and improving, the essential quality of the brand is ever-evolving. I moved from Chicago to Atlanta during the pandemic in an effort to expand and attract more customers, eventually going national.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It most certainly has not! From financial struggles and stable living situations to emotional turmoil. I didn’t have the luxury of accessible capital. I didn’t have a large team to help me push the brand out. Dealing with all of these things and still managing to juggle your personal life can provide its own list of challenges. There were times when I could barely afford to pay my bills, and I couldn’t invest into large amounts of inventory. I turned to “upcycling” and sewing clothing in order to make 1/1 pieces that would sell for higher price points. Also, with the way social media changes, it’s always an uphill battle to figure out creative ways to keep the brand in front of customers and fans.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a creative first and foremost. But I’m mostly known for my clothing brand, Kami Haus. I specialize in unique and left-field pieces that work to make a statement anywhere. I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve been visible to some people I thought I’d never get the chance to meet. My talents have gotten me in places I wouldn’t otherwise feel worthy of being in. I’m proud of how fashion-forward I am and how my work truly resonates with those that come into contact with it; they can feel the time and energy put into it. What sets me apart from others is my individuality. Most people are looking to get behind trends quicker than the competition. I seek to answer problems, which can lead me to revolutionizing the will in a way. I’ve created pieces from my own imagination only to see it recreated in stores like H&M, Zumiez, and Bloomingdale’s.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Most people who know my work or my brand might not know that I have an affinity for music as I’m a producer. I still consider myself a student, but I love music and have always been surrounded by it. In fact, it was in the field of music that people first saw me creatively having potential. I was really good at freestyling, so people just assumed I should become a rapper, although I never seriously pursued it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Instagram.Com/kamihaus
• Other: Instagram.Com/ox.tai