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YEAR IN REVIEW: TYLER GIVENS

A Look Back with 2021 E&J x Karl Kani Mentorship Grand Prize Winner Tyler Givens

Mar 07, 2022

Kent State Fashion program graduate. Streetwear brand founder. And Grand Prize winner of the 2021 E&J x Karl Kani Mentorship program.

Menace Denim founder Tyler Givens is killing the game, fresh off a one-on-one mentorship with the Godfather of Urban Streetwear himself. As E&J Brandy prepares to kick off the 2022 program, Tyler reflects on a remarkable year of learning from an industry icon and business tycoon.

It’s been a year since you began your mentorship with Karl Kani. How are you different?
I am more independent in exploring my field and being confident in what is destined for me and my future.

How is Menace Denim different?
Menace Denim is different because I’ve come to realize the true impact I want to have on the world, and on the fashion industry. I also understand that my creations are art for me, and art takes time. So I consider us to be slow fashion; we’re not trying to keep up with anyone but ourselves. I have a better understanding of the creative process that works for me and the direction I want to go to keep Menace Denim excelling and evolving every day, every month, and every year.

How is your outlook on business different?
I’ve learned that it’s about taking the necessary time to make important connections and learn more useful information so that Menace Denim is continuously expanding and connecting, and that my skills are always strengthening.

What is the most valuable piece of advice Karl Kani gave you?
To stay inspired by creating a book of inspiration from all over the world that I can continuously update and refer to, and that although being consistent is important, I must simply do what I can when I can. Another piece of advice that sticks with me was that I need to be the best at what I do and people should think of me whenever they think of denim because of how I create and dominate.

What would you like the legacy of Menace Denim to be?
I’d like Menace Denim to be known for staying original, as well as liberating and educating. I want every design to be created with patience and pure creative energy; and to be inspired by the beauty of the earth, the legends before me, and my own unique design process. Just because we’re a clothing business doesn’t mean I won’t find ways to incorporate educating my audience. Everything created by Menace Denim should make customers feel super confident, liberated, and one-of-a-kind.

Keep up with Tyler and Menace Denim here.

Inspired by Tyler’s story? You could be next. Level up your hustle with a year of one-on-one mentorship from Karl Kani, plus a project stipend to get started on your legacy. Apply now at ejkani.com.

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Fam Comments

hoeyhooper
3 years ago

2winit
mcgrogantimothy@hotmail.com
3 years ago

I want to do more with all my classic denim products---Wonderful !
gorla_98@yahoo.com
3 years ago

I'm inspired to do more artist painting.
KayKay
3 years ago

I'm inspired to finally write my best selling book.
mmunson46
3 years ago

It is “Scrumptious”! Made to savor and delight in.
Sexy21
3 years ago

Ej is my favorite drink I love the store it tought me to be inspired person and achieve my dreams.
Tracy Lynn-Pittman-1609201336
3 years ago

It was really good
minnies779
3 years ago

looks great
mmunson46
3 years ago

Superfragilisticexpealledocious