We had the good fortune of connecting with Derrick Tré and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Derrick, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It wasn’t really a thought, more so a feeling. I’ve always known that I would have my own business, I never really pictured myself working for anyone but I wasn’t in a rush because I wanted to gain experience and the knowledge to be able to start my own business. I wanted things to happen naturally and organically.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I graduated from Johnson & Wales University in 2017 and earned my bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising & Retail Marketing. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to do an internship so I really had to get it out the mud. I had to really put myself out there. Selling myself was a challenge because at that time I really didn’t have the experience so all I really had was my talent and my personality. I learned that I cannot wait for opportunities to come, I had to create them. My grandma always taught me anything worth wanting is worth working for and faith without work is dead. I cannot sit at every table, because everyone isn’t for me. So I made my own table. I provide more than just a service, I give experiences. Once you get around me, you’re always going to want to be around me. It’s only one Derrick Tré. I always strive to be authentic in my work and make my clients and everyone feel good about themselves.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Eh, I’ve been living in Charlotte for so long it’s gotten boring to me now lol. But I love to brunch! Who doesn’t love mimosas? I love a good brunch spot with good food, great customer service and a nice aesthetic for some photos. We’re going to Tupelo Honey! It’s in Uptown Charlotte and they have a great selection of food and a nice aesthetic inside. But if you’re really wanting to have a good time—we’re going to either Stats or Sports One. Both spots have great food and live DJs during brunch so it’s always a vibe. The only difference is that Stats serves hookah during brunch and Sports One doesn’t. There’s this new spot that just opened called Day & Night; it’s an exotic cereal bar. I haven’t been yet but I heard it’s good and it’s different! Exotic cereal bar?! Why wouldn’t that spark your interest? For shopping I always go to Southpark mall. It’s the luxury mall here in Charlotte; first store we’re going to is of course Captivate! We have fashions for every occasion. Well that’s really the only store we’re going to because it’s a one stop shop. As far as night life goes, I only go out if we’re getting a section. That’s non negotiable lol, I’m not a general admission type of person. VIP only! Lol. We’re gonna go to CRU, Firehouse, Art Room, Red @ 28th, Tattooz & Booze (you can drink & get a tattoo at the same time). Uptown Charlotte has a lot of bars so definitely bar hopping for sure!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First of all, I want to thank God because without him I wouldn’t be where I am today. I want to give credit to my mentor and friend Alicia Zeigler, she took me under my wing when I was a hot mess and gave me a chance and opportunities. She groomed me, gave me opportunities and invested her time and her love into me.
Charity Luvs—she’s a retired fashion stylist and entrepreneur. She owns the only black women owned luxury boutique in Southpark Mall in Charlotte, NC. I’ve been working there for over a year. I’ve known her for years and she gave me the opportunity to work for her. She’s been a blessing to my life and has taught me so much about the business. I love her to death.
And the support of my family & friends has always kept me going.
Website: derricktre.com
Instagram: derricktre_
Twitter: derricktre_
Other: Business page @styledby.him on Instagram.
Image Credits
@jalenxsavvy @tygc_ @shotbybliss @craigmuze