New York, NY-Suave, sophisticated and debonair, University of North Carolina alumni Kwame Jackson’s luxury tie line, Krimson, gives all of its clients that extra flare that helps to not only pull the ensemble together, but also provide the executive mentality.

While the world of retail may be struggling to find its lifeline in the biggest economic collapse since the great depression, Krimson has managed to thrive and grow. One of the main reasons behind his success is the median price point of Jackson’s tie. Consumers can get a hand woven, silk scarf for $75.

Jackson, who was the runner-up on the first season of “The Apprentice,” launched Krimson in 2007. Jackson says that the show allowed him to build the personal brand that has allowed him to succeed today.”It’s like my preacher says: ‘The setback ain’t nothing but the set-up for the comeback,'” Jackson said. “After the shows conclusion, I was faced with all kinds of opportunities. I had direct offers from Mark Cuban and Bob Johnson, chances to go back to Wall Street; all kinds of things. I basically said ‘alright this is it, a chance to go work for someone else but a chance to do something for myself and create a unique platform.'” Jackson launched Krimson after fans and viewers of “The Apprentice” commented on how much they liked his shirts and ties. After careful development and planning, Krimson was launched in a test market in New York.”I saw a lack thereof of young professionals generation x style that was relevant to people who weren’t looking to wear their grandfather’s tie,” Jackson said. Starting with the New York test market in 2004, Krimson quickly developed with the creation of the online boutique during the holiday season of 2007, and then went full retail in June of 2008, being picked up by first Belk and then Macy’s nationwide.As recent as this past August, Krimson has continued to grow despite the harshness of the economy. Jackson partnered with steakhouse legend Jeff Ruby to develop an additional necktie line to expand the market. Jackson was also in Atlanta on Wednesday for a “trunk showing” of his line.There is no doubt that Krimson will be expanding even further in the future. Jackson hopes to develop not only more ties, but also additional accessories and eventually, a full-blown line of menswear. There are also plans for additional brands at various prices, such as”Kreme by Kwame” at the $195 price range, and KBK at the $19 to $29.95 price range.

Jackson is looking to open up stores in New York, and expand to other markets. In the North Carolina market, you can find “Krimson” at the Belk’s and Macy’s in Crabtree Mall in Durham, and in Southpark in Charlotte.  

• Dexter R. Mullins