Born and raised in the suburbs outside of Dallas, Texas, Jamil Rashad grew up surrounded by bold culture, southern resilience, and a quiet hunger to stand out. In a city where style spoke volumes and individuality was worn like a badge of honor, Jamil’s eye for fashion developed early — not just as a hobby, but as a way to tell his story when words sometimes fell short.
As a child, Jamil often found himself sketching outfits in the margins of his notebooks, reimagining everyday clothes as statements of power, protest, and pride. Raised by a hardworking family that taught him the value of perseverance and vision, he learned early that success wasn’t handed out — it had to be earned, stitched together piece by piece.
His academic journey led him to Grambling State University, a historic institution that gave him more than a degree — it gave him purpose. At Grambling, he didn’t just study Marketing; he lived it. Every campaign project, every late-night brainstorming session, was a building block for the future he saw so clearly. It was there, surrounded by legacy and ambition, that the idea for Above Cruel was born.
Launched in January 2023, Above Cruel is more than a clothing brand — it’s a movement. It reflects Jamil’s belief that people can rise above the cruelty of the world by embracing their truth, their style, and their identity. The name itself is a declaration — a reminder that through creativity, confidence, and community, we can all elevate above negativity.
Graduating with the Fall Class of 2023, Jamil is already looking far beyond the stage and the diploma. With his degree in hand and Above Cruel on the rise, he envisions building a fashion empire rooted in authenticity and impact. His mission is not only to create clothing that turns heads but to inspire others — especially young Black creatives — to chase their dreams relentlessly and unapologetically.
Jamil Rashad isn’t just designing clothes. He’s crafting a legacy — one that says no matter where you come from, you have the power to rise above.
