An interview with Reece Bates Ibiza lover and founder of Dirty Fresh Laundry Part two
We always like to know how people are doing after their previous interview with us. This time we talk to our good friend Reece Bates, the founder of the fashion brand Dirty Fresh Laundry. Let’s see how Reece is doing now.
Ibiza Inside: Reece good to have you back with us again. Please share with us how are you doing and how DFL is at the moment?
Reece: I’m really well, thank you. Brand awareness for DFL has accelerated over the last few months so I couldn’t be happier with the progress we are making. So far, this year we have launched a trial woman’s range which was well received, our men’s oversized vests completely sold out which is massively positive with more stock coming by end July! Our FRESH snapbacks have literally flown out! The buzz generated from Facebook & Twitter helped them to pretty much sell out before we could get them on the website; we are now onto our 3rd batch with the response getting bigger each time. I am busy putting the range together and planning for the look book for next year.
Ibiza Inside: You have a lot of famous DJs that you can call your friends. We love to know more about being a DJ, because a lot of our friends in the Ibiza Inside community are interested in being famous DJs.
Reece: wouldn’t say I know “famous” DJs, but the people I do know are extremely hard working and good at what they do, hence they are where they are today. Personally, I do not like the idea of anybody doing anything to become famous. If you’re passionate, good and love what you do, then hopefully that will take you on a journey. Success is a result of putting your heart into something and giving it your best. A lot of people have the love and drive but give up along the way; it’s the people that keep on going and trying that matter.
Ibiza Inside: You are not a DJ producer and please correct me if I am wrong but what kind of mindset should a future superstar DJ have?
Reece: I used to DJ but have never been a producer, when I was growing up I was sneaking out on the train into London at weekends to buy records, I used to spend all the money I had on records. I used to drive my dad nuts trying to scratch on his record player before I finally convinced him to let me buy some turn tables and a mixer. I dedicated all my spare time to learning how to mix and collect records because I loved the music, the culture and the scene and wanted to be part of it, even if it was only in my bedroom. When you grow up like that money is the last thing on your mind, it’s all and exclusively about the music.
Obviously things are a lot different today, from my experience only; anybody wanting to be a DJ should do it because they want to do it, not for the money or for fame or because it is today’s trend. Personally I think the DJ scene has become very saturated and to be a DJ these days you have to do a lot more than turn up and mix. Some very talented people have been in the circuit for a long time, most have been working hard for years before they get their big break. Therefore, in my opinion you have to define your own style by selecting the music you like, but remember you’re the DJ; you’re using other artists’ material your following will grow by people liking what music you play and how you play it, how can you stand out if you’re playing the same as everyone else. Get yourself out there networking, making contacts, go to events, meet people, you’re going to need a strong mindset, persistence, determination, be able to take criticism, be consistent and of course have some talent. If you have that already what are you waiting for?
Ibiza Inside: Fashion and Music go hand in hand. Can you tell us how your brand meets the music industry…?
Reece: Dirty fresh laundry meets the industry through me; it started off on a small scale with my friends and others wearing our tees when we were playing or out clubbing. I wanted to merge all the things we liked, house music, fashion and partying under one label. The brand still isn’t near my vision, but it’s well on the way. The best way I can explain it is, when you’re out partying, you’re with your friends, you’re having fun, you’re meeting likeminded people; basically anything that could bring you down is a million miles from your mind… that is freedom for those moments, I wanted Dirty Fresh Laundry to represent that.
Ibiza Inside: We have a lot of female readers and of course they want to know if you are still single…?
15000 per month I hear? Yes I’m single, I’m a free spirit.
Ibiza Inside: What great tips do you have for people who want to work in the fashion and music industry…?
Reece: Don’t do it! lol….no seriously, don’t do it unless you are thick skinned, can take rejection multiple times and think you can handle having no money and no results for a time longer than you think it’ll take. On a positive note, my best advice would be to start small, have a solid long term plan and set small manageable goals to achieve so you are always progressing. Be confident and never be afraid to ask for help. Most importantly, get out there meeting people; you are the best ambassador for yourself. Dirty fresh laundry has been a roller coaster, the ups and downs have taught me valuable lessons you can’t buy.
Reece:”Be confident and never be afraid to ask for help”
Ibiza Inside: Any collaboration you’re working on?
Reece: What I’m really excited about is the new addition to our team, Dirty Diane; Diane brings you weekly reviews, news, videos and new music from all the parties she attends around London town. She is a beautiful, hardworking lady that I have been trying to bring on board since last year! Her musical taste and ear for quality underground house music had me sold from day one. The response so far has been crazy, as her identity is secret.
Ibiza Inside: You know what we are going to ask because we always end with this question, but when we say Ibiza you say.?
Reece: Its got to be Ibiza! The rain in England hasn’t stopped!
Thank you so much Reece for this fantastic interview. We love to hear more about you and your brand in the future. We are looking forward seeing you in Ibiza Soon! Who is your favourite fashion designer?
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