EPISODE · Nov 12, 2025 · 30 MIN
Redefining Modern Fashion: Steven White of Different Regard on Craft, Confidence, and Community
from Makers of the USA · host Kristan Vermeulen
Guest:🧍♂️ Steven White — Co-Founder & Creative Director, [Different Regard](https://differentregard.com)📍 Location: Howard Street, Baltimore, MarylandHighlights:* Steven’s journey from finance to fashion — and how narcolepsy changed his path* Founding story of Different Regard (2010–2011) and building an in-house factory by 2013* Transition from T-shirts to fully tailored suits and small-batch production* The philosophy behind custom consultations and valuing craftsmanship* Baltimore’s role as a creative hub and why Steven chooses to stay and build there* Mentorship and youth education initiatives teaching pattern-making, sewing, and design* Global yet local sourcing — from Baltimore to the UK and back* Creating standout custom pieces for clients like Real Housewives of Potomac’s Robin Dixon* How Different Regard balances high-end design with community values and sustainability* Kristan’s personal connection: Steven designed her suit for her national pageantKey Quotes:> “I want to show young people that you don’t have to sew to be in this space — there are so many ways to build a career in fashion.”> “We don’t just make clothes; we make people feel different, confident, and connected to the process.”> “Baltimore is where my story began — and it’s where I want to give back."Connect:🎧 Listen to more episodes: makersoftheusa.com📸 Follow @makersoftheusa and @differentregard on Instagram If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.
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What this episode covers
In this episode of Makers of the USA, host Kristan Vermeulen sits down in her hometown of Baltimore with Steven White, co-founder and creative director of Different Regard, a sustainable fashion house known for its handcrafted suits, gowns, and bespoke apparel for men and women. Steven shares how a diagnosis with narcolepsy led him to pursue his passion for fashion, how Different Regard grew from a small T-shirt company into a full-scale design and manufacturing studio, and how he’s using his craft to build opportunity in Baltimore’s maker community. From sourcing materials locally and training youth in the art of sewing to building a multi-cultural team and bringing design innovation to airport retail, Steven is redefining what it means to be a modern American designer — blending precision, sustainability, and heart.
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Redefining Modern Fashion: Steven White of Different Regard on Craft, Confidence, and Community
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