We Speak Fashion
Freedom Through Fashion – Inside Out Clothing Project.
“Second chances are not given to make things right, but to prove that we can do better even after we fall.”
The moment you stand up against adversity, you become a winner. It requires courage, mental willpower, and strength to be the change you wish to see. Meaningful relationships also help foster our trajectory, dreams, and aspirations. The community’s unwavering support makes initiatives like the Inside Out Clothing Project a reality. Greg McKenzie founded this project as the UK’s first clothing brand, created and designed by young ex-offenders. It provides a space for those leaving the criminal justice system to harness their creative skills, build relationships, and generate job prospects following their struggles.
“The idea for the Inside Out Clothing Project emerged ten years ago, inspired by my experiences in and out of children’s homes. At 20 years old, I became the youngest black senior broadcast journalist at the BBC. I wanted to create a platform that offers hope and aspiration, which led me to establish the Inside Out Clothing Project three years ago. Since then, I have helped 30 young people. Dream big—having the right mindset is essential to instigate change,” says Greg McKenzie.
The grand opening of the Inside Out Clothing Project occurred on Saturday, November 23rd, at Westfield Stratford. Four talented designers showcased creations that represent unyielding hope transformed into triumph.
Designed by Martallus Alfred, “Life Reloaded” represents a new beginning. “I always wanted to be a music producer, which was my backup plan. While in prison, I achieved a Level 2 in Maths and English, although I didn’t particularly enjoy reading and education. There was a college on-site, and I learned new skills in a print shop that produced clothing for prisoners. After leaving prison, I connected with a hub in Croydon that helps former prisoners enrol in courses, where I learned about Inside Out. I’ve always been business-minded and didn’t want to work for anyone else, so I eventually started my clothing brand. Inside Out is fantastic for anyone leaving prison because ex-offenders rarely get a second chance. It prevents you from drowning in uncertainty,” says Martallus Alfred.
“Locked In,” founded by Chanel Pinnick, reflects a journey from being locked in to being locked on. “My logo design represents focus and self-discovery. I appreciate street art, which inspired my hand-crafted design. I chose a stencil design for the lettering; the target symbolizes focus. Joining the Inside Out Clothing Project was a tremendous opportunity. I became involved in February of this year, and as a result, they made everything seem possible. Don’t lose hope if you’re leaving the criminal justice system—be open to new possibilities,” says Chanel Pinnick.
“Rethink,” designed by Joe Wanzala, epitomizes the yin-yang quality of life. “There are two sides to everything and a grey area in life. I chose to change my life, and my design represents that we all face choices we must consider,” says Joe Wanzala.
“Cold Heart,” designed by Taschan Peart, is about survival. “It reflects my trauma. I grew up in care and was often thrust into new situations without forming connections. I experienced a lot of pain amid family unrest, but I found happiness when my family found peace. The only way I could protect myself was to feel nothing. Being numb means sacrificing good feelings for the bad, but being cold-hearted has made me a survivor. Inside Out bridges the gap between two worlds – the world no one speaks about or wants to help and the world everyone knows and speaks about, i.e. everyday life.” says Taschan Peart.
Listening to the stories of these talented designers was genuinely inspiring. They reminded me of my struggles, moments of self-doubt, and times when I felt like giving up, believing that no one cared or was paying attention. A common theme in all our experiences is the importance of mindset and the need to listen to ourselves, even during uncertain times.
The Inside Out Clothing Project equips participants with business, creative, employment, and personal development skills, helping them to “find freedom through fashion.”
All sales proceeds are returned to the community interest company, allowing the Inside Out project to continue its vital work.
Written by Natalie Robinson
We Speak Fashion
Jaylen Brown Launches Luxury Athleisure Line Under 741 Brand – A Hybrid of High Fashion and Innovation
This Launch Comes on the Heels of Brown Announcing Turning Away Over $50 Million in Sneaker Endorsement Deals to Launch 741
Boston, MA. 12 December 2024 – NBA Finals MVP Jaylen Brown is proud to unveil the athleisure segment of his 741 brand, a bold new luxury alternative performance collection. The line, which
includes menswear and womenswear, blends the best of high-quality materials, cutting-edge design, and chic, high-fashion aesthetics to create a new standard in modern athletic and casual wear.
Self-funded and fully designed by Brown himself, the 741 athleisure collection is a testament to his visionary approach to the future of fashion. This line features hybrid items such as puffer coats, hoodies, sweat suits, leggings, crop tops, t-shirts, gloves, hats, backpacks and more. The collection also includes their signature ‘FCHWPO’ mantra within the lining of key items, knits, nylon sets and bags. Each piece is crafted using premium fabrics that offer superior comfort, flexibility, and durability. The collection is designed for style and the demands of an active, fast-paced lifestyle, ensuring that wearers feel both confident and comfortable, whether on the court, in the gym, or out on the streets.
“This collection represents the intersection of luxury and performance,” says Jaylen Brown. “It’s not just about looking good—feeling great and performing at your best. 741 is a reflection of who I am, both as an athlete and as someone passionate about pushing boundaries, and I’m set to do this in sports and fashion.”
The athleisure line features sleek, minimalist designs that combine sophistication and utility effortlessly. The collection’s standout piece is the signature iridescent emblem, symbolising the 741 brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. Every piece’s subtle yet powerful branding makes a bold yet refined statement of luxury and performance.
Key Features of the 741 Athleisure Collection:
1. Luxury High-Quality Materials: High-quality fabrics engineered for both style and function, offering comfort and durability.
2. Chic, High-Fashion Aesthetic: Sleek, minimalist designs that merge luxury and sport, suitable for any occasion.
3. Unisex Designs: A versatile line offering both menswear and womenswear, catering to all body types and styles.
4. Signature Iridescent Oval: The 741 emblems featured on each item create a unique, upscale look.
5. Self-Funded & Designed: Each piece of the collection is a reflection of Jaylen Brown’s vision and dedication to excellence.
The 741 athleisure line is available and set to redefine hybrid luxury athleticwear in modern fashion. The collection will also be available through pop-up events and exclusive retail partnerships in the coming months. With a focus on craftsmanship, innovation, and inclusivity, 741 continues to grow as a trailblazer in the luxury athleisure market.
For more information or to shop the 741 athleisure collection, visit www.741performance.com
About 741
741 is a next-generation performance brand with a clear mission: to empower athletes and provide consumers with quality, stylish designs that elevate performance on and off the field. Our tagline, “Future of Perf0rmance,” reflects our commitment to innovation, pushing boundaries in both design and functionality to meet the needs of modern athletes and style-conscious individuals alike. The name 741 holds deep personal significance, inspired by founder Jaylen Brown’s connection to numbers and frequencies. In Numerology, 7 represents spiritual awakening, wisdom, and understanding, while 4 symbolizes hard work, stability, and practicality. The number 1 stands for new beginnings, creativity, and independence. Together, these numbers tell a story of intuition, resilience, and boldness, embodying the spirit behind Jaylen’s decision to forge his path and create 741—a brand that champions authenticity and empowerment for all.
About Jaylen Brown
Jaylen Brown is a dynamic force both on and off the basketball court. In 2024, he led the Boston Celtics to an NBA Finals victory, earning Finals MVP honours and the Eastern Conference MVP. A top recruit from Atlanta, Brown excelled academically at the University of California, Berkeley, earning Freshman of the Year and first-team All-Pac-12 honours.
In 2023, Brown signed a record-breaking $304 million supermax contract extension with the Celtics. A first-round pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, he has become a two-time All-Star. He serves as Vice President of the NBPA, where he spearheaded the creation of THINK450, an initiative empowering players’ control over their name and likeness.
Off the court, Brown is a passionate advocate for social justice, particularly in education. He founded the Bridge Program through his 7uice Foundation, partnering with the MIT Media Lab and NASA to support underrepresented youth in STEM. Jaylen Brown launched the Boston XChange (BXC) and Oakland XChange (OXC) to empower underrepresented creators and entrepreneurs by providing essential resources and opportunities. Focused on closing the racial wealth gap, BXC aims to generate $5 billion in net wealth creation through economic empowerment, innovation, and cultural diversity.
Brown recently launched 741, a self-funded sneaker and luxury hybrid athleisure brand focused on empowering athletes with creative control and better business opportunities. He also is the Chief Innovation Officer and board member of Hapbee. This wellness technology company creates devices designed to help users improve their mental and physical well-being through controlled electromagnetic signals.
Known for his leadership, philanthropy, and commitment to social change, Jaylen Brown is one of the most impactful athletes of his generation.
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