Lansing-Based DEFYE Growing Strong, Adding More National Markets

December was a busy month for DEFYE's Michael Doherty, who is rapidly adding retailers to the growing list of companies interested in carrying his clothing line, "DEFine Your own Existence.” His company, which has been in existence for two years, has also seen business more than quadruple.

“We’ve been doing outstanding and I know a lot of people are surprised,” says Doherty. “They ask me how I’m doing so well in these times especially, and it’s really exciting.”

Doherty designs and sells both men’s and women’s shirts, hoodies, jeans, accessories and other items. Doherty started his company in L.A., but brought it back to his hometown, creating a presence in the Meridian mall and the Refinery in downtown East Lansing. He also has locations in Grand Rapids, Detroit and Chicago.

“We definitely want to keep a location here along with probably opening in other major cities throughout the U.S.,” he says.

In February, Doherty will bring his designs to Las Vegas and display them at one of the biggest international clothing trade shows in the world.

“When I do that, the sky’s the limit,” he says. “We’ve grown probably at least 10 times in the last two years.”

Source: Michael Doherty, DEFYE

Ivy Hughes is the managing editor of Capital Gains and can be reached here

All Photographs © Dave Trumpie

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