Our Story

Based in Maryland, worn with confidence

I'm Nickiea Youmans, founder and owner of Gates of Heaven, a Black woman-owned streetwear brand based in Maryland. I've always loved clothes and putting a look together. Over time, I wanted to do more than wear the styles I liked. I wanted to create something of my own.

Where it started

My sister was one of my first inspirations. Growing up, I watched her take clothes apart and turn them into something completely different, and seeing her creativity made me want to make clothing of my own. My father, Ron Perry, inspired me too. As a designer and co-founder of RP55, established in 1995, he showed me what was possible and what it takes to build a brand. Today he mentors me as I find my own direction with Gates of Heaven.

Today, Gates of Heaven is a family-run business. My daughter, Kirstin Ingram, creates our social media content and helps at our pop-ups alongside my sister, Kesha, who is also our seamstress.

The name

My grandmother inspired the name. She raised my sister and me and helped raise my children, and she was part of every piece of our lives. After she passed, I often thought, "If heaven had visiting hours, I would be there every day." Naming the brand Gates of Heaven gave me a way to move forward while keeping her close. I can picture her folding clothes with me and helping me get ready for a pop-up. Her love and everyday support are in this brand, and they grow with it.

The clothing

I want to give people options. Some pieces make a statement with bold graphics and worn-in washes; others are understated, with a single embroidered mark. I care about how a garment feels, how it fits and the details that make it stand out: heavyweight cotton, careful embroidery, finishes that look lived in from the first wear. Whatever you choose, I want you to feel confident while wearing our brand.

What's next

Gates of Heaven brings together my love of fashion, the creativity I grew up around and the people who shaped my life. I'm building it into a brand I can keep growing, with clothing people enjoy wearing and feel good making their own. New pieces are on the way, and every order ships from Maryland.

Shop new arrivals  ·  Questions? Email gatesofheavenclothingco@gmail.com