Jan 12
18
Commentator shapes clothing line for conservative views
Commentator shapes clothing line for conservative views
The media mogul is releasing his own upscale casual clothing line with patriotic undertones that lets you protest Washington tyranny — in style.The clothing line, called 1791, is Beck’s newest undertaking since leaving Fox News in June, and aims to “revisit that original blueprint of our Founding Fathers” by recalling 1791, the year the Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution.The idea had been brewing for several years — Beck wanted to symbolize how hard it has become for businesses to be efficient in America. “But only last January did Beck decide to create a clothing line around it,” said his online magazine, The Blaze.
The collection — 11 pieces strong — is inspired by the eccentric talk jock himself, and includes “Death to Tyranny zip-up fleeces” with skull and crossbones graphics and “Death to Tyranny polo shirts” ($85 and $65, respectively). It’s L.L. Bean-meets-tax rally, and because it’s for Beck’s charity, Mercury One, even designers are giving Beck high marks.
“It’s very basic,” said Cibeline Sariano, a local fashion designer and owner of Cibeline Boston Boutique on Charles Street. “But the selling point is the concept. He wants to create local jobs and promote clothing manufactured in the U.S. I would buy a basic zip-up hoodie just to help the cause.”
The clothing line is manufactured by American Mojo, a Lowell-based company that produces “socially responsible” clothing by employing local, single moms to get them out of poverty. The fabric for the clothing is local, too, with the material being created in Lawrence.
Cara Aley, American Mojo president and COO, said Beck sought them out to be 1791’s manufacturer.“He said he didn’t care about our political views,” Aley said. “He just wanted to improve jobs, and that’s what’s important to us.”The line, featured only on 1791.com, includes coffee mugs, vintage T-shirts and hoodies. Aley said Beck insisted on using his own designs.Expect to see several new products on 1791’s website in the next few weeks, as there are already plans to expand the collection.
The project is part of a larger movement to improve small towns across the country, helping neighbors help neighbors, Beck said in a statement. He called his fans to action, insisting their support is vital to making the movement successful.“We — you and me — must save America by saving ourselves. And we will,” he said.
