How a humble DIY upbringing sparked this streetwear designer’s minimalist aesthetic
December 27, 2024 | Taylor Wilmore
Flaws are part of nature, says Clark Rooseveltte: Go forth and be creative (not normal)
Clark Rooseveltte — already known across Kansas City as the man behind the mic (and the mixtape) — is inviting others into his world of creative living through Clvr World Goods and Supply, a lifestyle brand focused on streetwear and minimalist design.
Shirts from Clvr World Goods and Supply for sale at The Porter House KC’s 811 Retail Incubator; photo by Taylor Wilmore, Startland News
Operating from within The Porter House KC’s 811 Retail Incubator, Rooseveltte offers a range of products — shirts, bags, durags, jackets, hats, and more — that embody bold self-expression and a deep commitment to community impact.
“Clvr stands for Creative Living Versus Retrospect,” Rooseveltte explained. “It means being progressive, but at the same time, understanding that nature is nature. There’s really nothing you can do about it. Just go forth and be creative.”
Rooted in resourcefulness
Rooseveltte’s journey into fashion began with a spark of inspiration from his childhood.
“Growing up, I really liked streetwear. We couldn’t afford it, so my mom was like, ‘Why don’t you just make it yourself?’” he recalled. “That sparked something in me.”
He sold his first shirt in 2013, driven by the same resourcefulness that continues to influence his aesthetic today.
“Thrifting and minimalism inspire my style,” said Rooseveltte. “Not being able to afford those things forced me to figure it out. I wanted to be stylish, but without logos. That’s what kept me so minimal.”
Community at the core
Since joining The Porter House KC’s incubator — relocating from his previous location on 3000 Troost earlier this month — Rooseveltte has embraced collaboration and growth, he said.
“It’s been a smooth transition, just figuring it out. I’m a visionary. I take something, replicate it, and make it adaptable to any space. That’s what I set out to do with Clvr World,” Rooseveltte said.
Clvr World’s community focus is evident in events like his annual toy drive, Santa Clark, which brings people together for a good cause. Other initiatives include ice skating at Vine Street Brewery, puff-and-paint events, and free movie nights — each designed to create unique and memorable experiences.
Rooseveltte’s community-driven mindset also extends to ProX internships, yoga classes, and neighborhood cleanups.
“It just feels good to give back,” he said. “I don’t have kids, so this is my way of contributing.”
A bold logo cap from Clvr World Goods and Supply; photo by Taylor Wilmore, Startland News
Creating his legacy
Rooseveltte sees endless possibilities for Clvr World for the brand’s future.
“Right now, I’m focused on expanding and collaborating,” he said. “With a team, this can start to run itself, and I can go create other things. It’s about legacy — a machine that can feed my tribe.”
While based in Kansas City, his aspirations are national.
“I didn’t want my brand to be limited to just Kansas City,” said Rooseveltte. “Every design has its own fan base. I want to translate that into other spaces and connect with people everywhere.”
Through Clvr World, Rooseveltte encourages others to embrace their individuality.
“You can be flawed. What’s normal is understanding that you’re not normal,” he said. “You’re different in every aspect, and that’s what makes you unique.”
Taylor Wilmore
Taylor Wilmore, hailing from Lee’s Summit, is a dedicated reporter and a recent graduate of the University of Missouri, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Journalism. Taylor channels her deep-seated passion for writing and storytelling to create compelling narratives that shed light on the diverse residents of Kansas City.
Prior to her role at Startland News, Taylor made valuable contributions as a reporter for the Columbia Missourian newspaper, where she covered a wide range of community news and higher education stories.
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