On a special segment of 85 South Comedy Show’s Black Excellence Spotlight, Latif Yaya and his team sat down with Karlous Miller to discuss the rise of Wisdom Fashion House (Wisdom ATL)—a Black-owned eyewear brand that has gone from local buzz to landing in major retailers like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom.
From humble beginnings designing t-shirts in high school to launching an innovative eyewear line during the pandemic, Yaya’s journey is a testament to creativity, perseverance, and strategic growth.
Wisdom Fashion House didn’t start with eyewear—it began as a clothing brand. Latif Yaya, the founder and lead designer, was selling custom t-shirts in high school. But when the pandemic hit in 2021, he pivoted to eyewear, crafting a unique aesthetic that quickly gained traction.
With a mix of bold designs and strategic marketing, the brand took off—eventually landing a major opportunity with Neiman Marcus during Black History Month. Today, Wisdom ATL is stocked in multiple retailers and available online at wisdomatl.com.
Meet the Team Behind Wisdom ATL
- Latif Yaya – Founder & lead designer
- Chico (“Chico the Plug”) – A team member originally from Mexico
- Jiggy – Described as the “youngest OG” of the crew
Together, they’ve built a brand that blends streetwear energy with high-fashion appeal.
Wisdom ATL’s success didn’t happen overnight. Yaya recalls starting with just one pair of glasses, which he would lend out for photos to generate buzz. By leveraging social media and word-of-mouth marketing, the brand quickly gained momentum.
One major turning point came when Cortez Bryant, the renowned music executive known for working with Lil Wayne, took interest in the brand and helped open new doors.
Wisdom Fashion House isn’t just about looking good—it’s about pushing creative boundaries. The brand offers:
✅ Unique, fashion-forward eyewear designs
✅ 3D glasses that can swap between regular lenses
✅ A playful, artistic approach inspired by childhood dreams
What’s Next for Wisdom ATL?
With a strong foundation and a growing fan base, the team has major plans for 2024, including:
- New collaborations with other designers and brands
- Expansion into more cities and retailers
- A special high school project launching in February
Yaya and his team emphasize the importance of authenticity, community, and staying true to their vision as they continue to elevate Wisdom ATL.
