Introducing Hood Prep Clothing

Article written by: SoJones
Posted on: January 30, 2009

By Ebony Ellis

Born and raised in blue collar New Orleans, Louisiana, brothers Troy and Alfonzo Bolden did not have many role models or  examples of inspirational career paths. The idea of establishing their own clothing or lifestyle brand seemed more like a distant fantasy. But with hard work, dedication and the continued drive to turn a dream into reality, the Bolden brothers have now created a name for themselves that reflects their vision and position within the community from which they hail: “Hood Prep is about where you’re from – every hood, everywhere.”

Carrying out their dreams with the slogan “Don’t let the gear fool you,” Hood Prep’s t-shirts, oxfords and polos are an authentic rendering of what is considered current and genuine in the streetwear world.

The Bolden brothers want their clothing items to be trendy, but speak to the individual. This expressive art form is depicted in several of their shirts like the “Dreamer” or the “Big Easy”, which represent the pain and struggle caused by Hurricane Katrina.

The Bolden brothers themselves survived Hurricane Katrina and went through the mental and emotional ringer of starting over. They feel they can directly relate to their audience because they are the audience.

Troy and Alfonzo Bolden possess the unique quality of being aware and insightful as to what is going on in every ‘hood’ and channeling that mindset into their clothing. Their designs not only depict reality as they see it, but provide a sense of hope and confidence in the bold pictures and bright colors used.

Troy Bolden states, “I walk the clothes – the clothes don’t walk me!”

The gear is indeed representative of urban fashion, but it also has community and inspirational overtones. It would be lovely to see a Hood Prep garment depict the dream that did come true: President Barack Obama. The huge and historic collaboration that President Obama made with individuals across ‘every hood, everywhere’ exemplifies the character of Hood Prep Clothing.