Nikita Mathis and Platinum Plush Fashions: 21 years of commitment to community

By Vaughn Williams

Nikita Mathis, the owner of Platinum Plush Fashions, and a pillar in Seattle’s Black business community stopped by #FeelGoodFriday with Trae Holiday to update us on how she and her business faired through the pandemic. Platinum Plush Fashions, now in its 21st year has been an example of longevity and savvy business acumen on the behalf of Mathis who has had to innovate and adapt over the years in dealing with issues of displacement of Seattle’s Black community, years-long construction in front of her business, and of course COVID. Through it all Mathis has made sure that Platinum Plush Fashions continues to provide unique and trendy apparel for our community and beyond.

Trae Holiday and Nikita Mathis on the set of #FeelGoodFriday with Trae Holiday (Photo: Birdzeye Vision)

As a board member of the Martin Luther King Business Association since 2010, it is clear to see that Mathis is all about service. During her time as a board member, she has worked with many emerging brands within the fashion industry. "I love supporting emerging brands… In my place, you have a place to place your apparel," said Mathis.

Mathis truly embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and resiliency of our community. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Mathias had to shut her doors due to the CDC guidelines. However, this did not stop Mathias' fiery entrepreneurial spirit.

She launched two businesses during the pandemic. Her first business was selling designer strawberries. She brought some to the studio for the crew to sample (I personally give them two thumbs up). Her second business is Fashionology, where she graciously shares her knowledge of the retail and fashion business. Here, she teaches young people how to be exceptional entrepreneurs. "Teaching, mentoring, and training people how to win and have longevity in the retail business," said Mathis. 

Nikita Mathis brought some of her designer gourmet strawberries to the set. (Photo: Birdzeye Vision)

Mathis’s quick pivots during COVID and learning grant writing skills literally paid off for her with her landing several grants that not only helped Platinum Plush Fashions afloat but inject funds into her new business ventures. With restrictions now fully lifted and her doors back open, Mathis says that it was her commitment to her business and her drive that ultimately saw her through.

"When you want something bad enough, you'll get it, you'll find a way, and you'll find a way to keep it," said Mathis

Make sure to check out Platinum Plush Fashion at ,https://myplushfashions.com/  or check out their store in person at 6511 38th Ave So. Seattle WA. 98118.

Also, make sure to watch the full interview on the Youtube video above.