Photography by Jessica Pierce
Fashion isn’t just about clothes—it’s about confidence, culture, and the stories we tell through what we wear. No one understands this better than Brandon “BJ” Gray, the Paris-trained, Los Angeles-born designer who has been turning heads and breaking boundaries since stepping onto the scene in 2017. With his original menswear label, Grayscale, Gray built a reputation for impeccable tailoring, bold silhouettes, and an unapologetic embrace of individuality. Hollywood’s elite took notice, and his designs soon lit up red carpets, private parties, and A-list events.
However, true creatives don’t stay in one lane, and Gray’s vision has always been bigger than menswear. In 2023, he expanded his universe with House of Gray, a womenswear collection with the same energy of statement-making confidence, fearless color, and exquisite craftsmanship. From suits to gowns, Gray’s designs exist in a world where tradition and rebellion collide—a reflection of his own journey growing up in Inglewood, influenced by both church suiting culture and the streetwear aesthetic that defined his city.
House of Gray is more than a brand; it’s a movement. Gray challenges the industry’s definition of luxury with each collection, proving that true style is about owning your presence in any room. As he continues to push boundaries, expand his reach, and redefine modern fashion, one thing is sure: Brandon Gray is a designer shaping the future, and House of Gray is just starting.
RSL: Gray isn’t just a brand—it’s a statement. How would you define the lifestyle that House of Gray embodies?
Brandon Gray: GRAY has always been about making a statement, and if we could sum up what the brand embodies in one word, that word would be "confidence." The brand speaks to the bold, the leader, the one who isn’t afraid to stand out and go against the grain. My personal style reflects this balance—classic elements mixed with the peacock flair that comes from my upbringing. Growing up as a preacher’s kid, I saw suiting as an art form in the church. At the same time, being raised in Inglewood, I witnessed the street culture’s dedication to monochromatic styling. Those influences shaped me into the designer I am today.
RSL: Your designs have been celebrated for dressing men and women who move through life with confidence. Who do you envision when you create?
Brandon Gray: I design for individuals who want to make a statement without saying a word. Clothing is communication, and I work closely with my clients to ensure that their look represents who they are and how they want to be perceived. Every piece is a collaboration, an extension of their energy and my vision.
RSL: Your work is as much about attitude as it is about aesthetics. What moments have shaped your approach to fashion?
Brandon Gray: My grandfather, Lee Larkins, shaped my attitude toward style. He was one of the flyest men to ever take the pulpit—bold colors, sharp tailoring, and a strut that exuded confidence. He taught me that insecurities about my confidence weren’t my issue; instead, they should inspire others to embrace their true selves. That philosophy, mixed with the cinematic inspiration I get from films like Casino and The Great Gatsby, influences everything I create.
RSL: Los Angeles has played a huge role in your story. How has the city influenced your brand?
Brandon Gray: L.A. has always been my backdrop, from the beaches to the streets to the red carpets. My Alpha collection referenced the city's landscapes, while my Fall ‘25 collection was inspired by Casino. This city has given me so much, and it continues to be a wellspring of inspiration.
RSL: You blend classic tailoring with fearless details. How is House of Gray redefining modern luxury?
Brandon Gray: Luxury is self-expression. I studied in Paris, where I learned the rules of classic tailoring—because you have to know the rules before you break them. My silhouettes nod to Parisian restraint, but my colors and prints are pure L.A. energy. Our clients define what luxury means to them, and we’re here to elevate that vision.
RSL: The expansion into womenswear was a bold move. What inspired it?
Brandon Gray: Women were constantly asking, "What about us?" I wanted to make sure that when we entered that space, it felt authentic to our brand. Our womenswear line is still bold, but it allows us to explore a softer side—gowns, dresses, and more are coming.
RSL: What’s next for House of Gray?
Brandon Gray: We’re launching a Rent the Runway-style rental service and diving into costuming for film and TV. Beyond that, we’re expanding into storytelling and production. The future of GRAY is limitless.
RSL: Visibility is a big part of your brand’s DNA. What does that mean to you as a Black creative?
Brandon Gray: Visibility is about representation. Seeing people who look like us in fashion, on screen, and in positions of power matters. We’re committed to making sure that Black excellence is not just acknowledged but amplified.
RSL: Where do you see House of Gray in five years?
Brandon Gray: We’re expanding into three to five major cities, building our rental side, and stepping into media. We’re not just building a fashion brand—we’re building an empire. And trust me, we’re just getting started.