Today in the nation's capital, streetwear brand DURKL is releasing a small collection of T-shirts, socks, and a snapback with the O.G. heads at Madness, another DC-based brand that saw its heyday in the mid-80s. The story behind Universal Madness is that it was the first majority black-owned clothing line based in Washington, DC.
Starting out of the trunk of their car, founders Eddie Van and Tyrone Johnson opened their flagship on the iconic Georgia Ave in 1985, eventually being stocked in chains like Foot Locker and JC Penney. Their designs perfectly reflected the zeitgest of Chocolate City at its peak, and the brand was even featured in Spike Lee's School Daze.
They're kicking off with a special event today, November 19, from 2-5 p.m. with performances by Just-i, Uptown XO, and Phil Da Phuture. If you're in the area, check the stuff out at 443 I St. NW.
