Senior Dhasan McComb Jr. is a business management major from the state of New York who grew up in Atlanta. He is taking the clothing world by storm with his apparel business Gratified Garments. McComb started the business alongside his brother during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
“When the world shut down and my brother and I needed extra income, we started making clothes at home,” said McComb. “What began with shipping a single t-shirt eventually grew into shipping hundreds. Over time, we realized that our business was becoming more than just apparel — it was becoming a platform for young people to express themselves through quality garments. Gratified Garments evolved into a brand rooted in community and empowerment. It became a space for youth to feel seen, supported, and proud of how they show up in the world.”
Gratified Garments specializes in apparel such as sweatsuits, shorts, rugby polos, beanies, and skirts. McComb shared that he began sketching clothing designs and outfits during his middle school years.
“Growing up, I often didn’t have the ability to purchase the clothes I wanted because of my family’s financial situation,” said McComb. “That limitation is exactly what made me realize that, if I ever had the chance, I would create opportunities for others to experience the joy and confidence that style can bring. When I came to Howard as a freshman, I only had $250 in my bank account. I spent $200 of it on my first two samples and survived off the remaining $50 until my next opportunity came. I took that risk not knowing where it would lead. At the time, I couldn’t see the bigger picture — I just knew I needed to try. But that leap of faith became the foundation of everything Gratified Garments is today.”
That leap of faith inspired McComb to grow his apparel company. He plans to expand his business pursuits by creating an e-book that helps aspiring fashion designers with creating their own business.
“My goal is to share practical steps, lessons learned, and strategic ways to leverage your environment — no matter where you begin,” he said. “I want to serve as a mentor for young creatives who often have the vision but not the guidance or resources.”
After graduation, McComb is relocating to Dallas, Texas, to begin a full-time sales role at the company Otis Elevators. He shared that the professional milestone is a strategic step in funding his longterm entrepreneurial goals, and the move will bring Gratified Garments into a new market.
“I plan to use the financial stability and skills gained in the corporate world to continue building Gratified Garments and expanding into a new market,” he said. “Entering Dallas gives me the opportunity to reach new customers, collaborate with a fresh creative community, and grow the brand beyond the Howard ecosystem.”
McComb added that Howard helped to fuel his entrepreneurial spirit. Support from peers like recent graduate Justin DeCambre (B.A. ’25) and senior Arielle Carter have helped to grow and elevate the visibility of Gratified Garments.
“These Howard students supported me without expecting anything in return, simply because they believe in the work, vision, and potential of Gratified Garments,” said McComb. “Their encouragement has been a powerful reminder of the strength of the Howard network and the community that continues to uplift.”
Company: Gratified Garments
Website: gratifiedgrmnts.com
Instagram: @gratified.grmnts
Article ID: 2596