WBM Features: Marshall Anthony

Dressing is a way of life.
-Yves Saint Laurent

Does man make the clothes or do the clothes make the man?

Neither. His thoughts do. And as for Darhel Anthony Mays II, starting his own business was something he has always aspired to accomplish from a young age. Interestingly enough, what his thoughts have allowed him is the development of Marshall Anthony, a company that specializes in bringing from the inside, out a phenomenal sense of personal style for today's gentleman.

So with some time to discuss how he got his start and what his company Marshall Anthony is all about, menswear designer Darhel Anthony Mays II welcomes us to his world for a few.

Take a closer look at how he designs life as he sees fit.


[As Told To Why Blue Matters]


Who is Darhel Anthony Mays II?

MA: I am a menswear designer, and neckwear craftsman.

Where are you from?

MA: I was born in California, but raised in Plainfield, New Jersey

What does fashion mean to you?

MA: Fashion for me describes a new york city street, and all the cabs are the latest trends. I am not very fond of fashion. I think to an extent is something that people run after and chase. I deal more in style. Style is something developed. It comes from within and represents uniquely, you.

How long have you been involved?

MA: The genesis of my menswear brand, Marshall Anthony, was in the fall of 2008. It was when I first started crafting custom bow ties in the privacy of my home. Overtime it has continued to evolve as a brand, and eventually will be fully comprehensive lifestyle brand. I would say the current stage is the exodus. Ha!

When did you know you wanted to pursue your own business?

MA: I wanted to have my own business since a teenager. It was something I always aspired to accomplish.

Explain the significance behind Marshall Anthony the name of your company?

MA: The name comes from a combination, it myself and my father's middle names. Darhel Marshall Mays Sr. & Darhel Anthony Mays II. Its like a dedication to his memory. He can live on through the name, as can I. I wanted something meaningful, but classy. A name that will outlive me.

What inspires and motivates you?

MA: I natural love for life. Its brings great fulfillment and joy to take something from an idea, and manifesting it into tangible accomplishments. I am builder by nature, so I am motivated by the climbing as well as reaching the summit.

What goes into the design of one of your pieces?

MA: I strive to take timeless style, and elegant pieces- and give them a modern update. To make classic pieces that transcend fashion trends and don't an expiration date.

What about the colors? Patterns?

MA: I like color, I like color a lot, the key is putting them together in a way that compliments, subtly. It is very easy to clash with colors and patterns.

What type of impact would you like to make with your works?

MA: To give gentleman renewed confidence. Classic dress, finding your personal style, and looking your best all aid in establishing self-confidence. A confident can person can do anything they set out to. I just hope Marshall Anthony can somehow aid in the process.

Any anyone you like to work with in the future?

MA: I have a host of brands and people whom I admire and would love to work with in the future. For now, I am more focused on establishing Marshall Anthony.

What do you do outside of fashion design?

MA: I like to travel, I'm set on getting out to see all parts of the world and observe different cultures and the beauty of God's creation.

What's next for Marshall Anthony?

MA: Shirting is the immediate. This spring I will be rolling out the MTM (made to measure) shirting line. It will be versatile and elegant shirts. Shirts you can wear from the boardroom, to Broadway and any stop in between. Also a lot visual media and editorial projects are in the works. I want to change the way menswear and clothing in general is presented to the public. And drill home what the Marshall Anthony brand is all about.

Any advice for those looking to pursue their fashion and business aspirations?

MA: Put the passion before the paycheck. The satisfaction is more derived from the former, not the latter.

You can experience the Marshall Anthony brand at www.marshallanthony.com