Greek-American Entrepreneur

Greek-American Youth give culture a modern style

Many Americans still carry on pride in the culture from which their family originated, and that value plays a very large part in the lifestyle of many Greek Americans. Greek tradition has maintained a strong presence in America as it has been passed down through generations who have proudly grown to identify themselves as Greek-Americans. However, Greek-American youth have not only embraced Greek culture through traditional aspects but adapted it into current modern culture. A prime example of that evolution is Urban Greek Clothing, a clothing company started by Greek-American youth for Greek-American youth.

The brand emerged about three years ago and has come a long way since its humble beginnings as an idea proposed casually over coffee by current owners Theo Constantinou, 23, and Yianni Karvouunides, 21. The two Ohio natives realized their longtime aspirations for running a business together with the idea of a Greek-influenced brand, something they both identified with, and thus, Urban Greek Clothing was born.

“We wanted to create something trendy that would appeal to Greeks as a way to represent the culture every day,” Constantinou said.

After developing their initial designs, the young entrepreneurs went on to pitch the line as a combination of “the old Greek tradition with the new urban American lifestyle” and continued to work towards their goal of making Urban Greek Clothing the international brand it is today. Constantinou and Karvounides sought out distributors to support their brand and soon built relationships with many Greek establishments including Hellenic Apparel that now organizes all of their west coast sales. Their efforts also led them to become sponsors of popular Greek-American music artists of Spade Entertainment and BiggBoss Music Group including renowned Greek hip-hop talent Efiologos.
Recognizing Urban Greek Clothing's growing popularity, a New York promotions company contacted Constantinou with the idea of an official launch party. The idea not only materialized as a successful, Greek-inspired event thrown at Philadelphia's Vango Lounge, but inspired Constantinou and Karvounides to expand their brand. They created Urban Greek Entertainment, through which they now bring that same Greek-club atmosphere to Ohio.
With the passion and determination of its owners, Urban Greek Clothing and Entertainment is still going strong today despite both of its owners still being in college.

“Though it is not what I plan to do for a career, I am thankful to have it on the side and want to continue with it,” Constantinou said. “It has taught me more about business than I ever learned in a classroom, and I have met so many people I would have never known otherwise.”

Urban Greek will soon release its spring line and will sponsor a Greek night in Columbus in April. Check back for updates and visit http://www.urbangreekclothing.com/ for more information on the company and its apparel. Preview some of last season's designs below.