About Harley Rhodes

HARLEY RHODES is a name that every product design from the brand carries as it makes its way into the consumer’s hands.  It’s not so much a badge of vanity as it is a connection to symbolism and purpose.

Founder and designer Harley Rhodes was raised in rural Wyoming, where life didn’t come easy, and nothing was handed to him.  His early childhood, marked by hardship and early independence, shaped a deep respect for resilience, authenticity and leading amongst adversity.  These are all values that now define his brand.

At the age of six amongst his mother’s struggle with addiction and reckless behavior, he was left in the care of his grandparents for the rest of his childhood.  Eventually through them he would find strength through structure, hard work and the power of family legacy.  At 14, he was finally legally granted the Rhodes name, a moment that marked both personal transformation and a sense of real identity.

Amongst his greatest influences growing up was his grandfather, whom he called “Dad”.  A steady hand, a patient teacher and Harley’s biggest cheerleader growing up.  Their bond ran deeper than words and his influence is the bedrock of the brand.

Though his early path pointed towards athletics – state titles in cross country and a full ride scholarship for sports broadcasting – life had other plans.  A diagnosis of osteosarcoma during college shifted everything.  But, the fight for his life ignited a creative spirit of ingenuity and eventually led him to designing Western inspired creations and beginning Dancing Cactus Designs.

Not long into his new journey of design and business ownership, his grandfather suddenly passed away.  Being 1,400 miles away Harley was once again robbed of an opportunity to say goodbye.  His grandfather’s passing left a silence no voice could fill and the echoes of past encouragement were all that was left.  But that loss, while devastating, deepened Harley’s appreciation for legacy - reminding him that the most enduring things in life are often the ones built from the best parts of what came before us.

Now, what began as Dancing Cactus Designs has evolved into HARLEY RHODES – a brand built from an eight-year journey of growth, grit, and relentless purpose.  It’s a brand his grandfather would be proud of.  Today, Harley blends Western Heritage with refined, modern aesthetics by designing lifestyle accessories and pieces which honor tradition while embracing evolution.

HARLEY RHODES is more than fashion.  It’s a narrative of transformation, identity, and bold expression.  Every detail reflects the belief that the West isn’t just history, rather the frontier it’s always been.

This is Harley’s story and vision.  Now, it’s yours to wear as expression.