Meet Raymond Banks | Fashion Designer & Owner of Hoodvenchy

We had the good fortune of connecting with Raymond Banks and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Raymond, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
I have four quotes that I live by.

1. “God Created Black People and Black People Created Style”- George C. Wolfe, this quote gives insight into the history and mission of Hoodvenchy. The Hoodvenchy motto is, “Our Culture Is Not Your Trend”, the main goal of Hoodvenchy is to bring light to those fashion creatives who did not receive their full acknowledgment.

2. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you John 15:16
This scriptures lets me know everyday that I am working in the right direction, and God did not put me on this career path for me sole purpose, but to accomplish a bigger picture.

3. “Write it down on real paper, with a real pencil, and watch sh*t get real”⁠ -Erykah Badu
As a creative we do a lot of writing, brainstorming and manifesting, so when we use the tangible items to bring our visions to life we are putting our dreams into the atmosphere to become reality.

4. “I want my clothes to make you happy”-Patrick Kelly
As Fashion designer my main goal is to see people happy in my clothing. Not only just happy, but I want them to have an experience when they are in my pieces. The greatest payment as a designer is seeing my clients happy and living their best life in Hoodvenchy.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am most proud of the journey in which I am currently on. Coming from Mississippi people do not recognize the talents we hold within the state, so forging ahead with my career I am excited to showcase what Mississippi has to offer. Getting to where I am today was not easy! I started out in 2013 as men’s accessories maker, I continued on this path for five years. November 2018, I started the Hoodvenchy brand. Throughout my career I continued to create new items and allowed my talents to be seen instead of being in the forefront of my brand. The lessons I learned along the way was to keep moving forward no matter what adversity you face. The most important thing I want the world to know is that Hoodvenchy is the light to expose the wrong doings of the fashion industry. With every piece produced we will continue to show the world what black fashion has to offer and the impact black creatives have on the fashion industry.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
They would probably fly into Jackson Evers International Airport, so I would start with drinks at the Refuge by Sheraton hotel in Flowood. Then, have dinner at Johnny Ts Bistro in the historic Farish Street District.

Day 2, we’d visit the Catfish Row Museum, to see where I created my most memorable work. Afterwards, we’d take the 61 south blues trail up to Clarksdale, MS and have lunch at the ground zero restaurant. After lunch, we’d tour the grammy museum, and proceed to Memphis to take on the Memphis night life. In Memphis, we’d have dinner at Itta Bena restaurant in downtown Memphis.

Day 3, breakfast at the Arcade. There’s a ton to do in Memphis, so we’d go to the Stax Museum and soak up the best in soul music history. Then, we’d grab a lite lunch at a local eatery in which I’d ask a local for this recommendation. Mid-evening, we’ll listen to some live music at the BB King blues club. After, we’ll head over to the Sugga Shack listen to more live music and partake in their amazing southern cuisines.

Day 4, what’s a successful trip without a mini road trip ? We’ll catch a cheap flight over to Los Angeles to do some fabric shopping, quick bites and a slight turn up. Land at LAX drop off bags at the hotel, hit the fashion district to purchase some exclusive fabrics for a few upcoming projects. Then, we’ll grab some food at Fixins Kitchen Soul Kitchen. Even though I’m thousands of miles away from home I make sure I find a soul food spot to keep the south in your mouth! Then, we’d take a stroll down around Fairfax to grab inspiration from the hype beast around the area. Later that night, we’d go to a Delilah grab some drinks and just take in the city. Dinner would be at Bossa Nova!

Day 5, back to the sip! I’d style my best friend in some exclusive Hoodvenchy gear and meet up with my photographer for an editorial photoshoot, because my best friends are usually my muses. Let’s grab lunch at Char restaurant in Jackson. Then, we’d go to Vicksburg relax before drinks at cocktails 101 bar and then we’d grab dinner at 10 south restaurant which has the best view of the Mississippi River.

Day 6 & 7 we just vibe and go with the flow of everything around us.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
As a creative, you always have that one person in your corner who is always proud of you no matter how big or small the accomplishment. I have to say my grandmother is someone whom I know is proud of me and every life accomplishment I achieve.

I would also like to recognize my parents Ray and Jakki, who have always been behind me and my dream one hundred percent. Your unwavering support is why I am who I am today. Your prayers, support and guidance has not gone unnoticed.

Vicksburg, MS I appreciate all of the support. Mississippi it’s our time baby!!

Website: Hoodvenchy.com

Instagram: Hoodvenchy601

Image Credits
Larry Walker (Skywalker_Studios) The Model Experience Photographers