My Story

Meet the owner

From 14-Year-Old Visionary to Founder of 14th Pharaoh Apparel

My name is Matthew, and I am the Founder and CEO of 14th Pharaoh Apparel, based in Chicago. I began my journey of self-expression at 13, growing my locs as a statement of individuality. By 14, facing bullying for being different pushed me to become intentional about how I presented myself, turning fashion and creative expression into tools of resilience and confidence. By 15, with only a vision, design sketch, and a hunger to succeed, I launched 14th Pharaoh Apparel LLC.

Created for individuals who lead with authenticity, 14th Pharaoh Apparel is a mission-driven brand rooted in self-confidence, sustainability, and purposeful design. We believe fashion should do more than look good—it should support the health and well-being of the wearer. That belief drives our commitment to high-quality, breathable, organic materials and our long-term goal of achieving GOTS certification across all garments.

Inspired by a family legacy of craftsmanship, my Ready-to-Wear collections—Mernoia (Mur-Noy-Uh) and R.A.W. (Rugged, Arcane, Wounded)—span casual, street, business, and formal wear, offering handcrafted pieces designed to empower individuality. More than a brand, 14th Pharaoh Apparel is a growing style movement dedicated to helping people claim their identity and let their personal fashion reign supreme.

Design sketch of pants with text and branding on a white background MatthewBell_DesignSketch_14thPharaohApparel_Copyright2024

14th Pharaoh Apparel

VISION

At 14th Pharaoh Apparel, our vision is to redefine fashion as a catalyst for mental and emotional well-being. We create distinctive, high-quality garments that challenge conventional trends and empower individuals to express their identity with confidence and intention. Rooted in authenticity and purpose, our goal is to build an inclusive designer brand that lives its values—one that is accessible to all who believe in self-expression, individuality, and fashion with meaning.

14th Pharaoh Apparel

MISSION

Our mission is to design stylish, sustainable garments that empower individuals to embrace their authenticity and express themselves with confidence in ways that reflect their true identity.

14th Pharaoh apparel

VALUES

01 | Leadership, Ethics, Integrity & Trust

We lead with purpose, uphold ethical practices, and operate with transparency and integrity to build lasting trust within our community and industry.

02 | Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

We celebrate individuality and are committed to creating inclusive spaces where all voices, identities, and cultures are respected and represented.

03 | Empowerment, Accountability & Community Service

We empower individuals to express themselves with confidence, take responsibility for our actions, and actively give back to the communities that support and inspire us.

04 | Collaboration, Growth & Sustainability

We believe in the power of collaboration to drive innovation, continuous growth, and sustainable practices that benefit both people and the planet.