In the Press: Fashion Maniac "The Official Uniform of People Who Hate Uniforms"
Our new friend at Fashion Maniac - Fattie King - has got the gang fired up on our most recent press release. Fattie takes the gang on a deep behind the scenes story of Duvin's inception. From selling tees out of our cars to partnering with some of Europe's largest retailers, Fattie hits it all in this feature. With that said, we're stoked to present the story of Duvin and our journey since 2010. Enjoy!
Duvin – The Official Uniform of People Who Hate Uniforms – Fashion Maniac
Duvin Design Co., the Official Uniform of People Who Hate Uniforms, was started by a group of lifelong friends on the balmy beaches of Florida in 2010. The brand launched modestly while the founders were still in college, selling t-shirts out of the trunk of their cars. Almost twelve years later, the brand is sold in over 130 retailers across 10 countries and is worn by athletes and celebrities from all walks of life. Though the brand's ethos is based on a surf lifestyle, it has grown throughout the years to encompass a growing clientele of creatives, musicians, skaters, party starters, and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Duvin was founded by Austin Duvall, Garrett Watzka, and Shaun O'Meara - childhood friends who grew up surfing the Atlantic Coast, and who gained experience in product design by working with brands like Element Skateboards, Von Zipper, Stance, and Billabong, Though the name itself was originally derived from CEO Duvall's last name, "Duvin" is inherently a work without meaning, allowing the products, good vibes, and community to define itself over time as the company has grown. Following their college graduations in 2012, the three reconnected in Orlando, moving in together into what would become the first Duvin HQ.
The trio continued to produce tees and swim trunks while working at a local surf shop, learning the business from the inside out. Understanding the market gave them a unique insight into what was missing- something fresh, fun, and distinctly East Coast. With most popular surf brands historically based in California, there was a limited representation of the Florida surf scene- a region ripe with interesting history and unique design philosophy. As native Floridians, this became the brand's talisman and distinctive point of view, which continue to drive all aspects of the label today.
Duvin's mission is to continuously drive the design philosophy forward while having fun through every step of the process. Trends come and go, but in the end a few main concepts have carried the brand through some remarkable growth. Pastels and bright colors are implemented in unexpected combinations, connected to large patterns and prints reminiscent of Florida's saturated hues and colorful architecture. The fabrics are super soft and breathable, complemented by effortless fits that seamlessly integrate into the outdoor Florida lifestyle - easily transitioning from sunny mornings to mild evenings.
Often referred to as the internet's go-to beach brand, Duvin hopes to continue to live up to that moniker as it grows. The brand is proud to have built a loyal following that returns season after season. As the product offering has expanded, new staples have contributed to the expansion of the brand's fanbase, which now includes all genders from various corners of the globe. What started as a product based in surf culture has evolved into a fashion brand that caters to anyone looking to have a good time enjoying the sun.
Duvin collections are produced in Los Angeles and internationally, with custom dyeing handled in Los Angeles and all printing done locally in Orlando. Though rumors have circulated that the brand is associated with The Filthy Flamingo Surf Gang, the Duvin team can neither confirm nor deny those claims. Go Have a Day!
Duvin – The Official Uniform of People Who Hate Uniforms – Fashion Maniac
