MICAH LEE: LEADING A FASHION MOVEMENT IN NORTHWEST OHIO

Micah Lee’s journey through the retail and fashion industry comprises nearly three decades of experience. Combining innovation with heart, he has developed an understanding of what makes fashion powerful and purposeful. As a seasoned manager and leader, Micah has spent 28 years creating meaningful connections between product and people. These skills were honed early on, climbing the ranks working for brands such as Footlocker, Guess, and Jimmy Jaz. He has served in entry-level positions and leadership roles. He has managed teams, overseen brand development, and navigated the ever-shifting currents of the fashion industry from the rise of e-commerce to the global effects of social media, all while staying consistently ahead of the curve. 

But beyond his professional achievements lies his true passion: helping others express themselves through fashion. That vision came to life with the creation of REVELHEIR, his elevated casual brand built around individuality. As his slogan reads, “inherit the enjoyment of life.” REVELHEIR isn't just apparel, it's a reminder to live boldly and unapologetically. 

Even with the success of REVELHEIR, Micah saw a gap in Toledo’s creative community. Inspired by his own experience and being born and raised here, he recognized that emerging designers, stylists, and photographers needed more than talent; they needed support and connection. And that’s how WBTS419 was born - a local nonprofit dedicated to connecting and empowering Toledo’s fashion creatives. Longtime friend Marcel Horsley, who has known Micah since their Southwyck Mall days, describes him as a forward thinker. “Micah is someone who was always a step ahead, intentional about every detail, and one of the first in Toledo to truly embody a fashion-forward mindset,” Horsley recalls. 

TOLEDO TURNS OUT FOR FASHION 

The WBTS419 debut fashion show at the Ribbon in Glass City Metroparks marked a shift in the local creative scene. It wasn't just about the clothes, lights, or music. It was about energy. The kind that tells you something real is happening. Models strutted with confidence, and photographers captured every moment. Toledo's fashion community showed up and showed out. From designers and stylists to photographers and bloggers, Micah's mission is to make Toledo a hub for fashion innovation and collaboration. 

Even after so much professional success, Micah has never lost sight of what truly matters. His proudest title isn’t founder or CEO, it’s father. As a dad to twin young men, he finds balance and motivation in family life. 

Q&A with Micah Lee, Founder of WBTS419 

1. What inspired you to start WBTS419, and what does the name stand for? 

WBTS419 was born out of love for fashion and community. I wanted to create something that connected designers, stylists, photographers, and other creatives here in Toledo—especially those who felt unsupported or overlooked. WBTS419 stands for Who’s Behind The Show, and the 419 represents Toledo. 

2. What makes Toledo a unique place for fashion creatives, and why is it important to cultivate talent here? 

Toledo has an authentic energy. It’s a city full of people who know how to hustle and visionaries who know how to make something out of nothing. We want to demonstrate that you don’t have to move to LA or New York to have an impact. You can build something amazing right here. 

3. How do you see WBTS419 affecting Toledo’s fashion scene in the next five years? 

In five years, I envision WBTS419 as a central hub for Midwest fashion. It will be an organization that gives creatives the tools, education, and visibility they need to grow. We will host high-impact events. Events where you can put on that outfit that allows you to express your personal creativity and go have a good time. We’ll be collaborating with national brands and continuing to put Toledo on the fashion map. Most importantly, we’ll be helping people turn their creativity into careers and sustainable businesses. 

4. What advice would you give to the young designer, stylist, or creative who feels stuck or disconnected in smaller cities like Toledo? 

First, be bold and fearless! Don't let fear rob you of what’s inside of you. Don’t let your zip code limit your vision. Start where you are, use what you have, and build within the community around you. There are people in your city who share your feelings. Find them, collaborate, and create something together. Consistency beats opportunity every time. Keep showing up, even when no one’s watching, because eventually, the right people will notice. Even if they don’t click “like” on your post, they see you. 

LOOKING AHEAD 

Coming off the success of the WBTS419 debut fashion show, Micah Lee is carving out his place as one of Toledo's most promising creative changemakers. His mission is clear: to build a movement where fashion isn't just worn, it's lived. 

But for him, it’s not about fame or recognition. It is about legacy. 

Micah is redefining what it means to build community through creativity. His work with WBTS419 is about more than runway shows; it’s about creating infrastructure, visibility, and opportunity for local talent. It’s about transforming Toledo into a city where creatives don’t have to leave to be seen. 

JOIN THE MOVEMENT 

As WBTS419 continues to grow, its mission remains focused on creating lasting impact connecting creatives, expanding education and amplifying Toledo's emerging talent on a broader scale. The organization serves as a platform for designers, stylists, photographers and other fashion adjacent professionals to gain access, opportunity and visibility. 

Through fashion showcases, networking events and skill building workshops, WBTS419 is building the infrastructure for creative success in Northwest Ohio. Each initiative is designed to strengthen collaboration, provide education and help local talent turn passion into sustainable careers. 

Community support plays a vital role in this mission, whether it's attending an event, volunteering or sponsoring a program or simply sharing the work being done, every contribution helps expand the reach of Toledo's creative community. 

To learn more or get involved, visit wbts419.com or follow WBTS419 on social media for upcoming events and partnership opportunities.