Today we’d like to introduce you to Madison Hines.
Hi Madison, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I first started making tees going into my junior year of high school. Because I was pursuing a degree in audio engineering, I pondered on my studio name that would be listed on the credits of an album. During that time, I was heavily inspired by the music industry and entertainment business and I remembered asking myself how I wanted to leave my mark on the world. One afternoon, I sat thinking of various engineer names until I settled on an adjective many of my peers and mentors described me as — wise. At the time, I’d also been into thrifting and pairing pieces together in order to make new outfits. I thought why not make my own clothes instead of buying overpriced new ones? Not knowing that I was birthing the kickoff to my entrepreneurial career, I was fascinated in making use of my time. Quite frankly, any excuse to get lost and be creative was an opportunity I took advantage of.
In the beginning, XWIZDUMBX ®️ was just a hobby that kept me occupied during my school year. Though overtime, it became an outlet that allowed me to acknowledge my awareness of self and my resilience. From the first day I introduced my brand to the public eye, it has taught me about patience, acceptance of self, and perseverance. Ultimately, I realized I wanted to create a space for those who felt they were not being heard or seen. Which is exactly what I did. Not only did I create a dope streetwear brand, but I designed it in a way to uplift and empower those who are deemed inferior. XWIZDUMBX ®️ is about authentic representation within our communities no matter where we come from. With the motto being DONT ASK PERMISSION ®️ XWIZDUMBX ®️ is definitely a representation of who I am, how I Iive my life and how many others live there’s as well.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This journey has definitely not been easy. However, I am grateful to the progress and growth of not only my brand but of myself. Within the six years of working tirelessly, I’ve endured a lot of mental and physical stress. Especially the first few years. Over this span of time not only have I gained new skills, but building my brand has become a beautiful journey about healing my inner child and nurturing the woman I am today. There were many ups and downs. Some days I doubted my strength yet there were many days I knew nothing could stop me. Though these moments never really go away, I’ve learned how to properly heal and push through them. When I first started I did not have all the financial resources, however, I did have my creativity, drive and passion. My determination to learn and educate myself while not being able to physically produce a product was definitely hard at times though it kept me sane and humble throughout the process. It was a struggle to find the right materials and even having to teach myself different styles of t-shirt printing. There were even days where I questioned why I even wanted to continue along this journey, but ultimately I knew there was a bigger calling. Whenever I do find myself struggling, I remind myself of all the progress I’ve made and how it has made me a better creator and designer. Learning as you go is definitely worthwhile.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
This summer I’ve made appearances at local pop up shops within the Houston area. Being able to interact and bond with other creators and customers has been a great success to XWIZDUMBX ®️ Apparel. I am also currently developing a podcast and youtube channel geared towards health and wellness. Ultimately, I am in the process of creating another safe space for in-depth conversations. Right now I am using this time to be fully engaged within my sacral energy, so stay tuned.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was a liberated child. I questioned any and everything. At times, quiet when I was deep in thought. Though loud and bodacious when I was passionate about something I really loved to do. I was very insightful and enjoyed making others laugh. I loved anything involving the arts, whether it be fashion, music, film, poetry, cooking, mixed media, the theater and even dance. I always found new ways of expressing myself. I was an honor student and really excelled in the arts, maths and sciences. I loved being helpful to others, especially to those that were younger than me or even my peers. There was always a hidden pressure I put on myself to excel and try my very best at anything I did. When it came to my work ethic, I was definitely a problem solver, stubborn and a perfectionist. I was the type of child that could sit for hours solving a puzzle until all the pieces were in their rightful place. I was also the comedic relief and the mother in most of my friend groups and thankfully these special attributes have stuck with me till today.
Pricing:
- I accept orders through my website for custom apparel priced at $45. This is where I give customers the freedom to create a shirt uniquely styled to them which are all limited edition pieces.
- For the same price of $45 customers also have the option to send in a picture of their favorite pair of sneakers and I design their tee the same colorway as their sneakers.
- Customers can find both these product items on my website under CUSTOMS labeled Custom Apparel and Custom Apparel + Sneakers.
Contact Info:
- Website: shopxwizdumbx.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/xwizdumbx?r=nametag
Image Credits:
Michelle Ruman @rumannoodles Fatima Walker @msfloofy
