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Nothing is going to stop Drew LaBarge, who graduated in 2010, from becoming a coveted designer and taking the fashion world by storm. In fact, he’s already launched his own clothing line.
The line, branded as PSD Apparel (Petit Sauvage Design – a name he previously used in street art) is taking the idea of high-end street wear, such as hoodies, t-shirts, shorts, boxers and sunglasses, and making it accessible for design-conscious men and women. The designs are fun, exciting and unique, letting LaBarge’s personal style shine through.
The style is along the lines of being understated; LaBarge is trying to avoid short-lived trends and screen prints.
LaBarge, who majored in studio art and minored in business, has never been shy about expressing himself through art. He started building his inspiration as an undergrad by taking pop art images and interpreting them as his own.
Through art classes, LaBarge met Matt Nuffort, who earned his bachelor’s and then his master’s from DU in 2009 and 2010, respectively. Their similar designs and philosophies sparked a friendship – and soon after, a business partnership.
LaBarge and Nuffort made the move to turn their hobby into a business when they saw a niche in the Denver market to make money from screen-printed clothing. Their talent and screen-printing skills launched their business, Bamboo Print+Design.
Screen-printing is just the beginning, according to LaBarge. LaBarge dreams of promoting his passion into a recognizable brand and is proving to be successful, launching his first complete seasonal collection of apparel and accessories in September 2011.
“When I could finally launch the collection, I felt a sense of accomplishment and success. It was a lot of work and we certainly celebrated, but I knew it was just the start,” said LaBarge.
According to LaBarge, understanding the business side of launching a clothing company, screen-printing business or even contract design work is vital. LaBarge attributes his ability to pursue his passions of creativity in business to the foundation laid by his business minor as well as sound advice from his father and others.
“Understanding the basics of finance, accounting and marketing or just being able to write a business plan is extremely important for any artist,” said LaBarge.
PSD Apparel is starting to build a strong following on both Facebook and Twitter, but LaBarge’s fledgling dream has only just started to fly. LaBarge also blogs to his followers, discussing trends and music that motivate LaBarge throughout the designing process.
“PSD is a brand that is going to continue to develop as it moves forward. It is so important that I keep improving in myself and my designs and keep striving to reach those really critical consumers who will help build brand recognition of PSD Apparel,” said LaBarge.
LaBarge will be launching his next collection in spring 2012 along with multiple new garments during the current fall and winter seasons.
“I am excited for what the future holds. I know I have to work hard but I also know that it is going to pay off. Seeing my own work and designs turn into actual clothes is amazing,” said LaBarge.
LaBarge is currently pursuing further education in graphic design at the Denver Art Institute to propel himself further and faster into his dreams.
