I am so excited and also very nervous to finally be launching this into the world! You can officially shop three merch designs, created by me and printed locally in Philadelphia.
Earlier this year, I knew that I wanted to create something tangible that we could share in together as a community. It was never about creating clothes or an “apparel line,” because that’s just not me. I’m not a fashion girl, and don’t really see myself becoming one.
But I do think the messages we choose to wear say a lot about us and our personalities. So when it came to creating something(s) that would be a solid representation of the community I’m building and growing here, apparel seemed like the best way to go. And because 90% of the times I’d rather be in jeans and a t-shirt or a comfy sweat shirt, that’s where I decided to start!
Everything about these designs is intentional. From the fonts to the colors.
I wanted something clean, simple and modern that anyone could wear and feel confident in, whether it’s dressed up or down. I wanted colors that would be symbolic of my favorite season (autumn), pair with my brand colors and also look amazing on brown skin. This little community is quite diverse, but I am endlessly thankful for the Black and brown women who support me and who I hope see themselves reflected in my journey. I will always create with them in mind.
I also wanted to be sure that as many body types as possible would be able to wear these pieces, so all items are available from size extra small to size 4X. In photos you’ve seen, I’m wearing a size XL which is perfect to feel comfortable, but still be able to dress the tops up (I’ve worn them with leggings and skirts and the fit is perfect).
I think the reason I chose the messages are pretty apparent, but I want to break them down a bit!
I know that people follow me for very specific reasons. Some people just like me, which is cool, but my content kind of falls into these very niche buckets that people have started latching on to.
For some, they are just here for the books. They want recommendations and to talk about books with someone who loves reading as much as they do. Most of my friends are readers to some degree, but few are as book obsessed as I am.
Books are also a huge part of my self care, and I know the same goes for many of you. I’m super introverted, and need my alone time to recharge. There’s no better way for me to do this and get out of my own head than by curling up with a good book for a few hours.
So, TBH, I’d Rather Be Reading was born.
Then, there are people who follow me because I’m super open about mental health. I’ve started sharing notes from my therapy sessions on Instagram and talk about living with anxiety often. Mental health and wellness are super stigmatized, especially in minority communities, so I know how freeing it can be to to push that aside.
One of my biggest takeaways from therapy this year has been the importance of enforcing your boundaries. My therapist told me earlier this year that anytime you don’t enforce your boundaries, you’re allowing yourself to be violated. It still hits me hard!
Boundaries are a huge deal for me. So wearing But First, Boundaries felt natural.
And lastly, my creative friends –which is honestly all of you! There are so many of you following me with side hustles, new businesses and big ideas. Writing short stories and poems, taking photos, learning new skills every day.
You all have no idea how much you inspire me.
Any time I’m able to meet people at events or just out in the world, there’s this energy exchanged that just fires me up. A kind of feeling that one creative often feels when surrounded by people who just, get it.
It’s Big Creative Energy!!!
I hope each and every one of you sees yourself reflected in this merch!! I’ve poured so much into these products, and I’m so proud of what I’ve created.
I’m constantly overwhelmed by the support and love you guys show me! This is a thank you, for everything. Let me know what you think!!