Eureka Lewis | 3RY Editor-at-large

Cover Photo Credit: Ricardo Thornton | RT Studios

Growing up in a city where fashion knows no bounds, has undoubtedly contributed to the ability and talent of one of it's most well-respected and raved about designers. Make no mistake about it, Celebrity Designer Fly Ty is a walking human billboard for style. His designs are bold, fierce and transformative, while subliminally serving as springboards for self-love and self-expression.

Following protocol with regards to fashion choices, might work for some people, but Fly Ty has never been one to conform. In fact, his objective is quite the opposite. Based on various strategic fashion choices, he has always found it satisfying to stand out in a crowd. In other words, he desires to be memorable. Without fail... he's on the mark!

In addition to being a consummate designer and stylist, Fly Ty has produced some of the most exciting and innovative fashion shows ever! Audiences are consistently in awe of his ability to create beautiful, show-stopping garments. They're also floored by the presentation. His designs have been featured on stages across the country, including Detroit, New York, St. Louis, Chicago and the list goes on. The locals, celebrities and models who don them, seem to instantly embody an almost magical confidence.

Fly Ty's undeniable gift, has afforded him countless accolades and honors. Among them, and most recently; 2021 Recipient of Motown's Lifetime Achievement Award and 2021 Winner of the Detroit Choice Award's Favorite Fashion Designer. He is grateful for the recognition, and extremely humbled by the positive responses his work receives. Some of the celebrities for whom he's designed, include international recording artists; Kelly Price, Angie Stone and Kierra Sheard, rapper; Kash Doll, actors; Robin Givens, Brian White and Carl Payne and ventriloquist; Willie Tyler.

Fly Ty's demeanor, wasn't always as assertive. It required focus, skill-tweaking, experience and owning up to who he happens to be; a self-taught, humble, gay black male, who loves God, fashion, family and friends. He hopes his work speaks for itself and inspires people, much the same way he has been inspired by the work of designers Michael Costello and Donatella Versace.

In typical 3RY Magazine style, we posed our 3 traditional questions to this gifted individual gracing our cover; Celebrity Desgner Fly Ty.

What do you most love about Detroit?

It is truly the fashion capital of the world. I love my city! We go hard for eachother. I often tell people, Detroit has NEVER done me wrong!

What advice would you give the youth, and/or other aspiring designers?

For aspiring designers: Your aesthetic is your eye. Follow your own path. Despite what anyone says. When you do you...you'll be on track to success.

For the youth: Education is key. Educate yourself in the area of your passion. Diligently work on your dreams. In the black community, we often have to work twice as hard to receive the recognition we deserve. Also, be true to yourself and your identity. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I want our youth to own who they are...to remain strong, focused and unapologetic

What's on the horizon for you?

For starters, my upcoming wedding to the man I love! I also look forward to producing my next big fashion show. The pandemic put a temporary halt on many events. Thankfully, things are better, and It's time. I'm looking forward to producing one in 2022!

We also added a bonus question for Fly Ty, picking his brain regarding style.

Recently Steve Harvey gave his take on which items men should have in their closet to be fashion forward. What is your opinion in this area, especially for someone on a budget

I suggest a tailored black suit, a nice pair of black shoes and a white shirt. If you can only afford one outfit, a black suit can take you a long way. You can always purchase and interchange other shirts, ties and accessories to expand the look, as your budget permits. -But definitely a nice tailored black suit gets my vote.

Celebrity designer Fly Ty, gets OUR vote! He is one of the many reasons Detroit remains on it's A game, when it comes to fashion! In observance of National Gay Pride Month, we salute this fashion powerhouse. Much continued success, and we congratulate him on his upcoming nuptials. We can't wait to see what he wears!

Instagram: STITCHBY.TY

Email: flytycreations@gmail.com