Women Crush Wednesday is back and we're here with the CCO of 224 Apparel, Ali Matthews Radow! We're very pro Greek Life over here at BOXFOX and recently launched our sorority line of boxes! In doing so, we were lucky enough to be introduced to 224 Apparel and their fearless leader Ali! Their products stand out among the masses and we definitely recommend reaching out with recruitment around the corner!
Alongside her husband, CEO Jonathan Radow, Ali has worked to grow their clientele nationwide by referral and social media alone. It is this devotion to grassroots and authentic marketing that demonstrates the power that comes when you combine a great attitude with quality product. Get to know her below and make sure to check our instagram for a giveaway with 224 Apparel that you won't want to miss!
NAME: Ali Matthews Radow
HOMETOWN: Born in Toronto, Canada. Grew up in sunny AZ!
CURRENT LOCATION: Scottsdale, Arizona
EDUCATION: Arizona State University
SORORITY: Kappa Alpha Theta… #TLAM
WHERE DID YOU GET THE IDEA TO START 224 APPAREL?
I wanted to be an independent woman, and to be in charge of my life. Creativity and the arts was a big part of my upbringing, and I knew that I needed to infuse creativity into my daily life to be happy. Joining my sorority in college was also a key part; it’s something I hold dear. All of those factors “clicked” and made sense. I saw a need for fashionable Greek apparel, along with a female presence in the industry. I met my (now) husband at a business meeting on February 24th, 2010, which is where the name “224 Apparel” comes from. When we met, it was magic (okay, cheesy sounding I know… but it’s true)! We decided to form 224 Apparel together, and soon realized that everyone—not just sorority women—was looking for fashion forward custom apparel. We were set on a mission to create an apparel company 100% based off of referral, where the design & quality spoke for itself. A few years, pure dedication, and nearly 400 college campuses later (I still pinch myself), the rest is history! I couldn’t dream of a better business partner, and attribute the creation of 224 Apparel to our teamwork.
WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT COLLEGE?
Hanging out with my girlfriends every night of the week. Those are my favorite memories… laughing on the couch, ordering pizza, and just being ourselves!
WHAT IS IT ABOUT BEING IN A SORORITY THAT HELPED YOU START 224 APPAREL?
Joining a sorority was one of the best decisions I made in college, and without a doubt helped to shape me into the person I am today. I developed a passion for the demographic as a whole; they are among the most inspiring, driven, and caring people I know. Since graduating, it’s become a great way to stay connected to the Greek community. I understand their goals and their needs. Sometimes it’s finding the perfect fitting shirt style-- one that makes each member feel both confident & beautiful. Other times, it’s making a design idea come to life. It’s a rewarding feeling to make our clients happy.
WHAT’S YOUR MOTTO RIGHT NOW?
“As long as you stay close to your heart, you can’t go wrong” – Diane Von Furstenberg. I’m a big believer.
WHAT IS YOUR TYPICAL DAY?
That’s the fun part… each day is different! I love picking out an outfit in the morning that reflects my mood for the day. So if I’m wearing all black, beware… just kidding! At the office, I interact with our team members constantly. We are very hands-on when it comes to bouncing design ideas around, picking out Pantone colors, and determining the best solutions for our clients. My day revolves around creative freedom, which is an ever-evolving process. It’s never complete without learning something new!
WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
My family. Ambitious women. My husband. Creatively, I’m inspired by fine modern art. I was so moved admiring Monet’s Water Lillies at the MoMA in NYC, I started crying! Yup, no shame. The sheer size, those brush strokes… it’s magnificent. Inspiration is everywhere! From vintage tees to album covers, down to Lisa Frank stickers.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE SCENE?
The airport scene in Cruel Intentions. Ryan Phillippe’s character is wearing a blue button down shirt, and “Colorblind” is playing in the background. SO dreamy.
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST GUILTY PLEASURE TV SHOW?
Million Dollar Listing New York. Anything on Bravo in general.
IF YOU COULD DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN ONE HASHTAG WHAT WOULD IT BE?
#eclectic
