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.”

[adinserter block="4"]

2024 Startups to Watch

    stats here

    Related Posts on Startland News

    White House selects KC for digital inclusion pilot

    By Tommy Felts | July 16, 2015

    Kansas City was selected as part of a national pilot program to connect more children and families to the Internet. President Obama on Wednesday introduced the ConnectHome initiative, which will connect more low-income families to high-speed broadband. To achieve that, the program will unite Internet service providers, non-profits and the private sector to offer broadband access,…

    Fast-growing Wardy connects fashion, film industries

    By Tommy Felts | July 16, 2015

    Sometimes, niche is best. At least that rationale is working well for Wardy, a Kansas City-area firm whose tech is connecting the film and fashion industries and finding traction around the country. Wardy president Chris Palmer said that his Lee’s Summit-based company’s mobile- and web-based app is designed to save time for costume designers, a…

    U.S. Secretary of Commerce praises KC entrepreneurship

    By Tommy Felts | July 14, 2015

    A member of President Obama’s cabinet met with local entrepreneurs Tuesday to discuss how federal funds have helped accelerate their businesses, and in turn grow Kansas City. In a stop to Kansas City during the National Council of La Raza, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker met with companies that have participated in business incubator…

    KC tech firm’s video app records $600K

    By Tommy Felts | July 14, 2015

    A local tech firm is planning to accelerate development of its mobile video application thanks to some new funding. Kansas City-based Digital Legacy landed $600,000 in May to fund the creation of its “VideoFizz” app, which allows a group of users to collaborate on a personalized video message for birthdays, anniversaries and other special events. Missouri…