Truly Inspiring People: Darrick Leak
I first saw Darrick Leak while attending the
D.Leak Designs Bow-tie Trunk Show
last year. A year later we met and he asked me to walk in his fashion show! Darrick Leak is the founder of the D.Leak Leather Bow-tie brand. Raised in Brooklyn, New York, Darrick has made a very fashionable name for himself and has accomplished so much in so little time with his beautiful custom hand made bow-ties and I wanted to know the secret behind his success.
1.How long has DLeak Leather Bow-ties been around?
The first DLeak leather bow tie was created on February 15, 2013. Each bow-tie is customized for each individual. The process begins with making only 1-5 of each design. The reason for this is to ensure that each client has there own unique Dleak experience.
2. What inspired you to establish your own bow-tie line?
I love seeing people look good. I believe that if you look good, you feel good. And if you feel good, you will
do
good...When I walk into a store its often hard to find what I envision in my head. So I thought "Why not just make it yourself?" I know what I would want to buy as a consumer, so I figured by creating that other people may like my vision as well. Bow-ties were not my original plan.
A friend of mine was getting married and asked me to make a bow tie. At first I told him I couldn't, but he said "You can do anything you put your mind to." and so I did.
3. What problems did you face early on? Do you still struggle with them now?
The biggest problem that I faced and sometimes continue to face is
fear
. I was afraid to introduce my product and the reaction I would get from people. I was worried about what would they say or think. Would they like it? Would they want to wear it? But as of now I really don't care. I just make whatever comes to mind and heart. I realized everyone is not going to love it but everything is not for everyone. I'm getting better at fear itself but sometimes I have my moments.
4. When was your "Mama I made it!" moment?
I never had a moment when I felt like I made it. I always get excited to hear about people's experience when they wear one of the ties. I feel like no matter how far you get there's always a long way to go. I'm just happy I'm doing something I love. I never want to get to comfortable. I honestly feel like the struggle is what keep you humble.
5. How has your environment influenced you and your style of bow-tie?
My style has changed so much over the years from following what was cool to setting trends and breaking all the rules all through high school. I feel like I finally have my own style. Whatever I think is cool is what I wear.
6. In your opinion what's the biggest thing keeping us from success?
I think the biggest thing keeping me from success is not being in contact with the right people. I believe that at some point God will align everything and everyone in my life. I pray everyday for patience. So I'm being patient and keeping faith.
(MESSAGE!)
7. What can we expect to see from DLeak Leather Bow ties in 2014?
For 2014 you can expect some more funky leather bowties from DLeak leather bow-ties. Also more solid classic pieces but a lot of pieces that push the envelope. I can't give away too much more. Let this year still have some mystery.
All featured photos were taken during "
The HeART Of The Bowtie
" Presented by D.Leak Designs - 2/12/14 in NYC.
