Words by Carol Wright | Photographs Courtesy of White Flag Clothing
We got to chat with Tai Bowen, the creator of White Flag Clothing about being interested in fashion growing up and how White Flag Clothing came to be.
Growing up were you always interested in fashion and potentially creating your own brand?
Yes! Growing up I was always fascinated with the “Fashion World.” My aunt is a personal shopper/stylist. I would spend the summers with her, watching her style her celebrity clients, and taking me with her to SAKS to pick out the clothing pieces. That’s what really inspired me to pursue a fashion degree. I would spend my summers indulged in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and W Magazine looking at the designer runway pieces! Fashion became a way of life.
How did you settle on the name White Flag?
My sophomore year in college at Louisiana State University. I was on my way to lunch when a young girl from a church group asked if she could pray for me. Reluctantly, I allowed her to pray for me because normally I am hesitant. While praying, she conveyed a vision of me holding a white flag and because I surrendered my life to Christ, the girls who would follow me would also surrender their life to Christ. That stood out to me, at that particular time in my life I was gaining a lot of followers on my social media accounts. From the following I received, I tried to intersect the brand I have on social media and impacting others. Two years later, I was having a conversation with my mom about owning my own business and the name, White Flag, instantly came to me.
You had a line of sweatsuits that honored Breast Cancer Awareness in October and during the pandemic part of your proceeds went towards COVID-19 relief. Is it important for you to help others through your brand?
Yes, absolutely! White Flag is known for more than clothing, but also providing an experience to others. It’s not just about a transaction of goods and services. We want to impact others on all levels. The month of October was geared toward awareness and we’re aware that many who endure illnesses and struggles lack the resources needed to continue to carry on.
White Flag clothing seems to have something for everyone. What usually inspires your designs?
My dreams are a big inspiration. Sometimes, while lying down and falling asleep I get ideas and visions of clothing. I’m also inspired by nostalgic pieces that are not affordable to the everyday man or woman. It brings me back to my mission of wanting to bring beautiful and unique pieces at a demand where others can not only buy it but still have the financial leeway to pursue other things.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned since starting your clothing brand?
Three words: patience, timing, and trusting my craft.
What advice do you have for aspiring designers?
Trust in God. Be authentic. Trust your vision and do not succumb to the sound of someone else’s drum. It’s such a beautiful experience to see your vision and your ideas come to life. Don’t be alarmed by how many pieces you are selling but rather how can you integrate your vision and your consumer’s needs.