RP Couture
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ABOUT US
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Transforming Lives, One Stitch At A Time
RP Couture LLC is a Chicago-based social enterprise operating as a hybrid workforce and creative arts development company. We are dedicated to empowering both adults and youth by teaching essential sewing skills, clothing alterations, and repurposing, fostering independence, promoting both environmental sustainability and financial well-being. The mission is to help individuals enhance their quality of life through creativity, skill-building, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
We achieve this through partnerships with community organizations that understands the need for skills that can enable sustainable living as well as the need to
Through our efforts, we aim to reduce waste and foster a culture of resourcefulness, making sustainable living accessible to all.”
Meet the team
Doreetha “Reesie” Wheatley is a highly skilled Business Owner, Dressmaker, and Designer with over 30 years of experience in the fashion industry. As a proud Chicago native from the Englewood community, Reesie discovered her passion for garment creation at the age of eight, starting with Barbie dolls as her first clients. Her love for sewing evolved throughout her life, especially after attending Fashion Design classes at Chicago Vocational High School. There, Reesie not only honed her design skills but also began to explore the world of entrepreneurship and fashion modeling with the local Prom Connection organization, sparking a deep passion to showcase her creations on the runway.
With continuous personal growth and mentorship from renowned designers like Roman Bailey of Rome Dynasty, Barbara Bates of Bates Designs, and Quinton De Alexander of Chez de' Alexander, Reesie’s brand, Reesie’s Pieces (R.P. Couture), has blossomed into a beloved name in fashion. Today, her brand offers ready-to-wear garments, along with the signature Slouch Bag—an accessory that boldly expresses femininity with the tagline, "Because you're such a lady."
Reesie's career is not just about fashion; it’s about giving back to her community. She has lived by the philosophy, "Give and it shall be given," which led to her recognition by Dr. Quinton De' Alexander (now Chief Tamba Taylor) at the We Dream in Color Foundation’s annual humanitarian event. Additionally, Reesie has contributed funds to help build the Chief Tamba Taylor Playground in Liberia to benefit underserved communities.
As a mentor and educator, Reesie shares her expertise by teaching sewing and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) at organizations such as BBF, Afterschool Matters, and CCHC. She has also partnered with initiatives like A Better Tomorrow for Today's Teens, Our Youth a Community Forum, and Chicago Public Schools to teach young people about fashion and entrepreneurship.
Reesie’s guiding motto is simple: "Give and it shall be given."
Patience Wheatley is a Chicago native who loves to inspire others through creative works. As a song writer, actress, model, author, and designer she brings her creativity and passion for fashion together to teach the art of repurposing clothing and other used items. Patience believes that there are no endings, only new beginnings.
Patience aims to create a vibrant community-focused platform offering resources for underrepresented groups, with a focus on self-care, therapy access, inner child healing, and sustainable living through upcycling and refurbished goods. Her multifaceted career combines her love for creativity, healing, and social impact, as she aspires to become a world-renowned figure in music, design, and community advocacy.