Our Voice / September 2014 39
She is actively involved in making critical decisions in where to appropriate funds to best serve the needs of the ever changing face of those fighting HIV/AIDS. Tracy hosts several star-studded, celebrity fundraising events with CFDA and the Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS.
Tracy Reese opened her Flagship Boutique in New York’s Meatpacking District in 2006 and her first international store opened in 2011 in Tokyo in the famous Omotesando Hills shopping center. Reese like has collaborated with many partners, Keds, Starbucks, Hue and Sally Hansen to name a few including Tide for which she designed a completely machine washable collection for Fall 2014.
After appearing on Fashion Runway as a guest judge Ms. Reese was asked, “What’s one style rule to break?” Her reply, “Women should not be afraid to wear color!” The best advice she’s ever given: “It’s important for new and aspiring designers to have a vision and stick with it, no matter what obstacles come up. Stepping outside of the current trends and trying something different and working hard to achieve the vision is the key to reaching certain goals as a fashion designer.” The best advice she’s ever received? “When I was growing up, my dad always said, “Be prepared to work twice as hard as anyone else if you want to achieve your goals.” Perhaps she and Olivia Pope’s dad went to the same class, (winks).