A Chat with AXE Selfmaker Tomas Romita

What does being a #Selfmaker” mean to you?

In a world of tech startups, social media and endless opportunity, I’m witnessing more and more people leaving the conventional career path for the adventure of entrepreneurship. It’s a big risk for sure, but with passion and perseverance, the rewards are priceless.

As an entrepreneur myself, I can’t imagine doing anything different. I’ve always aimed to be my own boss and pave my own path. However, that’s not the case for everyone and a lot of my friends and people I’ve met in business started out working a 9-5 job, before realizing they wanted to take the plunge and going out on their own.

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with many like-minded business people and hearing each of their stories is so inspiring. I recently visited my friend Tomas Romita, founder of MADE Clothing Co., to chat about entrepreneurship and his latest involvement in the AXE Selfmaker campaign.

Tomas is one of three real life, Canadian, self-made men, featured in the AXE Selfmaker campaign. Highlighting the grit, determination and “fuck it” moments that it took for each selfmaker to get to where they are today, this campaign is the beginning of the next chapter for AXE. A bold new direction – something all selfmakers know well about.

“I thought the AXE Selfmaker campaign was a great fit. People love to hear stories about business and it gives the opportunity to dip their foot in the water. Some end up diving in and perhaps this campaign could be what gives them that final push,” Tomas told me.

Another thing Tomas found was that the AXE Selfmaker campaign offered an authentic platform to share his story. “Response has been amazing. A lot of people have reached out with questions or similar stories,” he said. “and the timing is right in 2015 to be an entrepreneur.”

Many of MADE Clothing Co.’s clients are selfmakers too, so in the spirit of the holiday season, I wanted to find out more about what’s trending in the suiting world.

“Menswear is reaching the sophomore stage. Men are bolder and statement style is becoming more mainstream,” Tomas shared. “For example, bright blue is selling out. It can still be considered a navy, but reinterpreted for the modern, confident man. Burgundy is also a great color for the holiday season and has been popular for weddings. As we move through the winter and into 2016, purple will likely start showing up more too.”

Other trends that have been emerging this season are: tuxedo lapels, u-shaped vests and velvet. Stretch fabrics are a popular innovation, allowing for more flexibility and functional style.

Beyond the trends, MADE is about finding the right fit for each person. Tailoring clothes that are lasting and create unique individuality. And I think that’s what being a selfmaker is all about – being bold, confident and making your own mark.

Watch the video below to see Tomas’s AXE Selfmaker story: