Montee Holland’s journey to becoming one of the most notable figures in men’s fashion is a story of resilience, determination, and an unyielding commitment to his vision. From his early fascination with sharp suits and polished looks in his Detroit hometown to his current position as the designer behind the flourishing Tayion Collection and his recent collaboration with Macy’s Divine Nine Collection, Holland has consistently broken barriers and set new standards for what menswear can achieve.

A Fashion Enthusiast from the Start

Growing up in Detroit, Holland was captivated by the sartorial elegance of his high school coaches and local businessmen. Their polished suits and impeccable style made a lasting impression on him, sparking a lifelong interest in fashion. After high school, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and was stationed in Japan. It was there, among the local tailors and fabric shops, that he began experimenting with custom suits. What started as a personal passion for designing his own clothes quickly evolved into something greater.

Upon returning to the United States, Holland continued to hone his skills while working in pharmaceuticals. He became known among friends and family for his unique style and custom-made suits, which featured bold colors, intricate patterns, and a level of quality that set him apart. As his designs gained recognition, it became clear that his talents needed a broader platform.

Building the Tayion Collection

In 2003, Holland took a leap of faith and left his corporate job to launch The Tayion Collection, a men’s fashion line that combined classic tailoring with vibrant, modern designs. He debuted his collection at the Magic Las Vegas Convention, one of the fashion industry’s most prestigious trade shows. Despite having no formal training or connections, Holland’s booth attracted attention for its distinctive style and craftsmanship.

His big break came when TV personality Steve Harvey, who was also at the convention promoting his own collection, took notice of Holland’s work. Impressed by his eye for design, Harvey offered his support, helping Holland secure valuable industry connections. This partnership provided Holland with the resources he needed to take The Tayion Collection to the next level, introducing his suits to a broader audience.

Over the years, Holland’s brand has become synonymous with quality and sophistication, attracting a diverse clientele that includes professional athletes, mega-pastors, and fashion-forward individuals seeking something beyond the ordinary. His meticulous attention to detail and innovative approach to design have made Tayion suits a staple for those who value style and substance.

Overcoming Industry Challenges

As his brand gained momentum, Holland faced a new challenge: counterfeit versions of his designs began appearing at trade shows and in stores. Rather than becoming discouraged, he saw this as an opportunity to innovate. He responded by launching T-Fusion, a more affordable line that maintained the same design ethos as The Tayion Collection but utilized less expensive fabrics. This strategic move allowed him to reach a broader market without compromising his brand’s identity.

Holland also navigated the complexities of licensing and distribution, teaching himself the intricacies of running a business while maintaining his focus on design. His ability to balance both the creative and business aspects of his company is a testament to his versatility and determination.

The Partnership with Macy’s and the Divine Nine
Collection

In recent years, Holland’s partnership with Macy’s has been a significant milestone for his career and brand. In 2019, The Tayion Collection was selected to participate in Macy’s exclusive business development program, The Workshop at Macy’s, which aims to nurture and support underrepresented entrepreneurs in the fashion industry. This opportunity allowed Holland to further refine his business strategy and expand his brand’s reach.

Through this collaboration, Holland was introduced to Macy’s executive team, which led to his involvement in one of the retailer’s most culturally significant projects: the Divine Nine Collection. Launched in 2024, this menswear collection honors the history and legacy of the National Pan-Hellenic Council’s historically Black fraternities, known as the Divine Nine. These organizations have played a pivotal role in shaping Black collegiate life and fostering leadership, community service, and academic excellence since the 1930s.

As a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Holland understood the importance of creating a collection that authentically represented each organization’s identity. His designs feature the signature colors and symbols of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity. The collection includes a range of sophisticated polos, blazers, cardigans, and accessories that speak to the rich heritage and proud traditions of each fraternity.

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“Macy’s has always been a leader in celebrating diversity and cultural heritage, and it’s an honor to work with them to create a collection that not only highlights fashion but also pays homage to the impact of the Divine Nine,” said Holland.

Elevating Fashion and Cultural Representation

The Divine Nine Collection has resonated with a broad audience, providing members of these esteemed fraternities with the opportunity to express their pride and personal style through high-quality menswear. The line’s success is a reflection of Holland’s ability to merge fashion with cultural significance, creating pieces that are both stylish and meaningful.

The partnership has also positioned Holland as a trailblazer in the industry, paving the way for other Black designers and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents on a national stage. As part of Macy’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion, the retailer has pledged substantial donations to the foundations selected by the Divine Nine fraternities, helping to support education, research, and community development.

“Macy’s dedication to supporting underrepresented communities is more than just words—it’s action. Their investment in the Divine Nine Collection and their partnership with The Tayion Collection is a powerful statement about the importance of representation and equity in fashion,” Holland remarked.

Looking to the Future

With the success of The Tayion Collection and his ongoing collaboration with Macy’s, Holland is setting his sights even higher. He recently secured a $10 million line of credit to support the expansion of his brand, which includes opening new specialty stores and increasing his team size. His goal is to make The Tayion Collection a household name, synonymous with elegance, quality, and a deep appreciation for the cultural influences that shape fashion.

Holland’s vision extends beyond his own brand. He hopes to bring more fashion manufacturing to Detroit, transforming his hometown into a hub for the industry. He believes that the infrastructure and skilled workforce that have long supported the auto industry can also support fashion manufacturing and distribution.

“Detroit is a city with a rich history and so much potential,” he said. “I want to see it become a place where fashion brands come to create, produce, and distribute. I believe we can make that happen.”

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Montee Holland’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. From his early days in Detroit to his current position as a leader in men’s fashion, Holland has remained true to his vision of creating sophisticated, high-quality garments that reflect his unique perspective and commitment to his community.

With The Tayion Collection and his work with Macy’s Divine Nine Collection, Holland is not just designing clothes—he’s creating a legacy. A legacy that celebrates culture, champions diversity, and inspires the next generation of designers to dream big and pursue their passions.

As he continues to break new ground in the fashion world, one thing is certain: Montee Holland is just getting started. And the best is yet to come.

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