Today we’d like to introduce you to Marie Carter.
Hi Marie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started classic because I wanted to show the world that my culture is not just a trend. My background is in education and it broke my heart when African American students couldn’t proudly distinguish their culture because it seemed like everyone else’s entertainment, not culture. There are so many layers and so much history to black culture in America that deserves recognition and respect. Much of my culture has been lost in translation over the years and I hope to curate it like art in a museum with classic. Designs encourage conversations and research to learn more…even if it’s just a google search to see what song that lyric came from. Too often black culture is diminished as just another trend which makes it easy to diminish our lives to being just as worthless.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been easy but what worth it has? I will say that the universe has definitely matched my efforts. If it’s ever been hard, there’s something in me I need to change or work on to make it easier. The hard parts built character and prepped me for the next level. Many struggles have been internal like building confidence when people look down on you and stamina without support from who you thought you’d get it from. Fashion is a tough industry and learning as I go has been challenging yet rewarding. It’s all helped me learn gratitude and appreciate the journey more.
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 specialize in unique designs for the culture on graphic tees and streetwear. All my graphics are original and while they celebrate black culture, they don’t discourage other cultures from celebrating and rocking the brand.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love Atlanta because people network with and support each other. It’s also a city that hustles, a characteristic I embody. People that look like me are thriving and it’s more than inspiring. What I like least is it’s so far from Milwaukee, lol.
Contact Info:
- Website: theclassicshoppe.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/theclassicshoppe?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Image Credits
Drewski Celebrity Photographer Milwaukee, WI
