While Sweatshirts
have been worn by many different types of people over the years, they are becoming more of a fashion staple in some circles thanks to husband and wife designers Mike Gonzalez and Christine Park-Gonzalez, whose label is called Mike & Chris. When their first shirts were sold two years ago, no one could foresee how popular they would become. Now their designer Sweatshirts are sold in many US department stores including Barneys New York."An interesting hoodie is the one piece that can define an outfit. You can be wearing a simple tank and a pair of jeans, and the hoodie becomes the focal point. We've always liked to take something simple and generic and make it more interesting and individual," said Mike Gonzalez. Some of their sweatshirt designs include using leather, fabric embellishments, and making the clothing fit closer to the body. Each of these alterations is easy and fun to do.
Celebrities like Drew Barrymore and Jessica Alba are among the label's fans. But according to Gonzalez, the alterations are very simple."You can take an old sweatshirt from your brother or an old boyfriend and do this," he said. Many of his creations start out as plain Sweatshirts bought from street vendors and discount clothing outlets. It's more about adding to them and creating a work of art, than wearing an old shirt that has seen better days. In addition to Sweatshirts, the designers also sell pants, shoes, and bags.
(c)Jan Willem Geertsma, www.sxc.hu