Get To Know Ron Louis: A Chicago Fashion Designer

Introduce yourself

What’s up everyone, my name is Ron Louis. I’m a Fashion designer from Chicago.

How was life growing up?

Life was okay growing up. I grew up on the Southside of Chicago. I got into trouble a lot as a kid and because of that I ended up being on punishment. Through being punished and being in the house a lot, that’s what led me to dive into creativity.

When did you begin to witness you had creative talents?

I first got into drawing and creating comics around seven or eight. It wasn’t until I seen old pictures of my moms Artwork that inspired me to take it to this level. 

What sparked your interest in fashion and when do you start getting into designing clothes?

The ladies. I paid attention to what the girls were into, and they were into guys who put themselves together well.

Funny side story – The other day I found my Grandma’s sewing kit, opened it up, and remembered that I used to play with it when I was real young.

I started getting into designing a bit in High School. I took a class called Clothing Construction. After I graduated, I went onto college to study Fashion Design. While in college, one of the first big opportunities for me was when King Louie wore my product. I got the King Louie opportunity through Dreezy. I’m very thankful for Dreezy and King Louie helping me network through the industry at a young age. 

(Dreezy in custom Ron Louis)

Talk about your new company Phera

Thinking back on it, I’ve been working on this brand since I’ve started designing. I came up with the name texting my friend. I meant to spell ‘fear’, but instead I spelt Phera. The word really stuck out to me and I decided to keep it. The brand is going to drop at the end of the month with a short film. Keep your eyes open for that.

You here a lot of people talk about racism within the fashion industry. As a person of color, have you experienced any racism towards you?

I have experienced racism, but it’s really slick. You have to really pay attention to catch it. Usually you become aware of it, after the situation took place.

What’s your take on the Chicago fashion community?

The Chicago scene is super dope right now. There’s a lot of good energy in Chicago right now. I’m a big fan of Sheila Rashid, Brandon Rials, Joefreshgoods, & Olivia Goodman right now. They are doing great things for the city.

What is your goal as a fashion designer?

To push myself and grow every day. I want to expand on what fashion design is. I want to inspire on all different platforms through fashion, make people comfortable, and open up more doors for people.

What’s your take on fast fashion?

It really all depends on what lane you’re trying to go in. I don’t really knock fast-fashion, but what I don’t like is when you just literally copy someone’s design and make it your own. It’s fine to get inspired by people, but don’t do the exact same thing. 

Do trends still exist in fashion?

I think they do, but it’s like a trend package. It’s more than just a new pattern, or a new fabric. It’s about the lifestyle that comes with the clothes.

Who are three dream clients you would love to work with?

I would love to work with Rihanna, Alexander Wang, & Asap Rocky. 

When it’s all said and done how would you like to be remembered?

I want to be remembered as a person who pushed the culture forward. I want to be one of those people that when they think of Chicago, they think of my brand and me. I wan to leave my mark in art and inspire others.

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Written By: Nico Rud