How a humble DIY upbringing sparked this streetwear designer’s minimalist aesthetic

December 27, 2024  |  Taylor Wilmore

Clark Rooseveltte, Clvr World Goods and Supply; photo by Taylor Wilmore, Startland News

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.”

startland-tip-jar

TIP JAR

Did you enjoy this post? Show your support by becoming a member or buying us a coffee.

2024 Startups to Watch

    stats here

    Related Posts on Startland News

    Failure, fail

    Listen: How does Kansas City regard failure?

    By Tommy Felts | October 23, 2015

    In the entrepreneurial world, the word “failure” takes many definitions. For some entrepreneurs, failure is a badge of honor, while for others it’s taboo. Regardless, failure is a part of reality amongst startups and it’s a topic that’s been examined at length in Kansas City’s entrepreneurial community. KCUR’s Up To Date recently hosted Startland editor-in-chief Bobby Burch, Pipeline Inc.…

    Events Preview: Compute Midwest, Shark Tank

    By Tommy Felts | October 22, 2015

    There are a boatload of entrepreneurial events hosted in Kansas City on a weekly basis. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, supporter or curious Kansas Citian, we’d recommend these upcoming events for you. WEEKLY EVENT PREVIEW Compute Midwest When: October 22 – 23 Where: Municipal Arena Over a thousand remarkable people from around the globe will converge in…

    Lager: Why I quit my cushy job for a broke startup

    By Tommy Felts | October 22, 2015

    It’s 4:03 a.m. My bedroom is still dark and the late August heat leaves me little need for a blanket. I lay here wide-awake, arms crossed behind my head on a pillow that’s too thin, while the rest of the world sleeps in deep peacefulness. I hear nothing, save for the wind occasionally singing outside…

    90 on the Clock with Mighty Handle

    By Tommy Felts | October 21, 2015

    90 on the Clock with Mighty Handle  By John McGrath, KCPT, and Bobby Burch, Startland News Ed’s Note: Flatland and Startland News have partnered to highlight Kansas City’s innovators and entrepreneurs, all in 90 seconds. This is the fifth and final episode in the series. Think of Mighty Handle as your digital defender. No, Mighty Handle is not anti-virus…