ATE, an acronym for Ancient Thread Empire, has a thought provoking name as well as logo. Actually, even the name of the CEO, Esmel Meeks, brought pause and intrigue as to where such a name could have derived from, let alone Ancient Thread Empire.  However, mind bogglers aside, ATE has substance, a cause, and a message behind all of its names. For one, the logo is a silhouette of a naked woman standing with an apple in her hand which is held above her head. Her head is leaned back as if she were attempting to take the most sumptuous bite of the apple.  Coiled around her body is a snake who is also attempting to bite the apple; for all who haven’t figured it out, the woman is Eve of the Biblical tale of Adam and Eve, and the apple is that of the forbidden fruit. As the story goes, Eve eats the forbidden fruit, and man has to wear clothing because of their sin. Therein is the tale of ATE. We don’t wear ATE because we have sinned. No, we wear ATE because Eve ‘ATE’ the fruit, and now we wear clothing, so why not the styling’s of ATE?.  As Ancient Thread Empire goes, the tread tells the history which lies in its weaving. In that fashion we offer you the history and mind behind ATE:

Who is the mind behind ATE?
The mind behind ATE is Esmel Meeks, the creator, founder, and creative engineer. There are also several other graphic artists behind ATE such as Ryan Winn, Danny Fraley, and Richie Pope.

What does ATE symbolize as a fashion brand?
ATE symbolizes the creation of a new style to the fashion world. It aims to incorporate influences from today’s inimitable generation as well as ancient culture to formulate a unique street label. Ate symbolizes excellence and success, and proves that anyone can build what they believe in into a success. In addition to this, ATE uses an apportioned amount of every sale to go towards a tuition scholarship for underprivileged students.

Who is the target customer for ATE?
The target customer for ate is the fan of exclusivity because ATE is sold manly in boutique stores, and is made in limited quantities to a high demand.

What was the inspiration for the creation of ATE Clothing?
The inspiration behind ATE was to create something new, so I brainstormed how clothing for mankind began. As far as my beliefs, when Eve ate the fruit, she felt naked and had to cover herself, therefore beginning the evolution of clothing. I wanted to start a brand that was original and didn’t leave off where another started, and so began the production of ATE.

Were there any set-backs when creating your line of clothing?
Time and Money. As an independent working college student who is the sole financial provider of this company, it is difficult to support myself along with establishing a company. Being that I am the sole provider, I can’t afford an accountant, marketer, lawyers, etc., so I act as all of these. It is a challenge juggling school, work, a relationship, and a clothing company.

What are your design influences?
I am an admirer of Roberto Cavalli, Guccio Gucci, The Hundreds, and Ralph Lauren, but ATE’s main influence is the community and the young children that fill them. Living and attending school in Richmond, VA, I see children each day who are not even thinking about furthering their education in college because they are not being motivated by their peers or at home. I was lucky to have parents who wanted me to go to college. I am influenced to design clothes so that they can benefit those who are not as fortunate as I was growing up.

Who benefits from ATE?
Financially, ATE benefits impecunious students. An apportioned amount of every ATE sale goes toward the (ATE) Achievements Through Education scholarship fund. Aesthetically, ATE benefits the world. It is a fresh creative brand that anyone and everyone will feel good wearing, and everywhere I go someone asks what it is or what ATE means.

What are some of your future plans for ATE? I.e. expansions, new collections, etc.
We are very excited about our summer line, but we are going to keep our designs under wraps for now because I don’t want to spoil it. I will say we will “be on board.” We look forward to growing as a company and becoming known and respected in the community and the fashion industry, and we hope to collaborate with more creative designers/artists. Look out for our events.

What advice would you give to an individual who is trying to start his or her own clothing line?
Perseverance is one of the keys to success. Push till there’s nothing else to push, then find more and keep pushing. Educate yourself and find what you do best that is different, and then perfect it. Always remember you are the determinant of your own success.

Esmel Meeks
EsmelMeeks@ateclothing.com

by Devin Morris