Screen Shot: Lousy NY

City Based: Long Island City, NY

What inspired the brand name?

The brand name was primarily inspired by "The Catcher in the Rye" as the main character uses the word "Lousy" an exorbitant amount of times throughout the book. We also just liked the word and felt it wasn't used as much as it should be in everyday life.

At what moment did you realize you wanted to start a brand?

In early April 2017 my partner and I were in between jobs and wanted to create something that was ours. We didn't know what we wanted to own exactly and even threw out the idea of trying to open a bar or restaurant. Thankfully we talked ourselves out of those ideas, but that's something we'd still like to do in the future. We've always been into clothing in some capacity, so we decided clothing was the way to go.

What helps you get over creative blocks?

Prior to Covid creative blocks would happen often. In order to overcome them I'd have conversations with friends that were in the creative field and we'd help each other brainstorm. However, a lot of the creativity would come randomly while watching a movie or listening to music. During the height of Covid-present creativity has not been an issue whatsoever. So much so that we've been dropping a new collection every month just to get all of the ideas out. Whether that's a good or bad thing, I don't really know, but It does feel good to get all of your ideas out. Getting the creativity seen has been the biggest issue.

What is the biggest mistake you have made?

There have been several. Spending too much money at the beginning due to lack of knowledge and resources is one of them and trying to take shortcuts. Unless you have a ton of money or the greatest contacts in the world, taking shortcuts doesn't really work here. Being rich with connections may not totally work either depending on what you're trying to accomplish.

What is the biggest success you have had?

I hate talking about this first part, but being featured on a prominent website which then lead to sales all over America and parts of Asia was a huge success. I've also met a lot of interesting people and have been in some rooms over the course of the last four years that would not have been possible if Lousy NY did not exist.

A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION PEOPLE MAY FIND WEIRD?

"The Catcher in the Rye" is pretty weird as there's a bit of a stigma attached to it. I also find inspiration in 70s soul music and that may be weird depending on who you ask.

Favorite color to use?

Navy Blue. Looks great at all times of the day and matches with every single color. It also hides your sweat if you struggle with that sort of thing.

ARE THERE ANY RETAIL SHOPS YOU WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU BRAND IN?

If Rowing Blazers ever opens up another store I'd love to see Lousy NY in a place like that. I'm sure there are other stores, but that was the first one that came to mind.

ANOTHER BRAND THAT INSPIRES YOU AND WHY?

Ralph Lauren will always be number 1 and Rugby really made an impact on my life. The Ralph Lauren brand has stood the test of time and shows no signs of slowing down. It has touched people of all backgrounds and walks of life. Aime Leon Dore is a perfect brand and they just do everything right from the styling to fabrics to the videos to collaborations. Palace, Noah, Stussy and BK Circus are also extreme inspirations. All incredible and inspirational brands.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AND THE BRAND IN 1 YEAR AND 5 YEARS?

In 1 year with the proper marketing I see Lousy NY in some boutiques on the east coast with some collaborations that make sense for both parties involved. In 5 years I'd like for Lousy NY to be a household name and a fully sustainable business with employees. A small store somewhere in New York if the world cooperates and I'd like Lousy NY to be highly profitable in 2026

IN 5 WORDS OR LESS DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?

Just come fuck with us