Hustle + Heart Season 1: The Power of Reinvention — How Tim Hester Built a Purpose-Driven Fashion Brand
Breaking into the fashion industry takes more than talent — it requires resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to evolve. In this episode of Hustle + Heart, Tim Hester, the creative behind Tim Phoenix 6, shares how he built a thriving fashion career spanning decades, all while staying true to his creative vision and embracing change at every turn.
From Bloomingdale’s to Beyoncé: A Lesson in Humble Beginnings
Tim’s journey began at 19 years old, when he landed a job at Bloomingdale’s in Miami. "Someone gave me a chance," he reflects — a powerful reminder that opportunity often starts with people who believe in your potential even before you fully see it yourself. That chance led him into visual merchandising roles for major brands like Macy’s and Lord & Taylor, but his ultimate dream was always fashion design.
Never Stop Learning: Why Tim Went Back to School at FIT
Knowing he needed more tools to realize his vision, Tim pursued his degree in textile surface design at the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology in New York — home to alumni like Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, and Marc Jacobs. Even as life challenges unfolded — including moving to NYC just before 9/11 — Tim stayed committed to investing in his education.
Lesson: Education isn’t limited to your 20s. Staying open to learning at any age creates new doors and sharpens your skills for what’s next.
Technology as a Lifeline, Not a Threat
Many creatives fear technology will replace them — but Tim saw it as an opportunity. In the mid-90s, long before design software was mainstream, he proactively learned tools like Photoshop and Illustrator. Today, he even teaches these programs to others. His advice? Don’t fear technology — learn how to use it to elevate your natural gifts.
Leveraging Platforms, Not Just Products
Tim also shares valuable insights for modern creators: you no longer need to “pound the pavement” to get noticed. Tools like Shopify, Instagram, TikTok, and Redbubble have democratized exposure. Success is now more about consistency, discipline, and community-building than physical gatekeeping.
Infusing Purpose into Fashion
While Tim’s designs are visually bold, they also carry deeper meaning. His latest collection focuses on conservation, using garments to raise awareness about endangered species like tigers and leopards. “I don’t want to just make clothing — I want people to think,” Tim says.
Advice for Aspiring Creatives at Any Age
Keep your full-time job while you build your dream.
Use weekends and downtime to research, design, and create.
Surround yourself with a supportive online community.
Age is no longer a limitation — reinvention can happen at 40, 50, or 60.
Key takeaway
Success in creative industries isn’t reserved for the lucky few — it’s built by those who are willing to adapt, keep learning, and stay consistent even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.
Follow Tim’s journey on Instagram (@TimFirehorse), TikTok (@TimPhoenix6), or shop his designs on Shopify.
