New streetwear takes inspiration from New York City, Charleston

There's a new streetwear collection that just popped up on my radar.

Actually, it'd be more accurate to say it turned up in my inbox. When your editor suggests you write a column about something, you can't really say no.

But after reading the press release, I have to admit, it does sound pretty cool.

DIPT NYC is a streetwear design company that recently unveiled its first collection of T-shirts, calling it 'Summer X.' What makes the company relevant to this column is that the operators divide their time between New York and Charleston, drawing inspiration from both.

This capsule collection consists of three graphic T-shirts that reference both the Big Apple and the Holy City. The press release mentions a focus on branding and distinctive logo work that will be 'noticed for years to come.' All three designs were hand drawn and display attention to detail.

DIPT NYC is a streetwear label that the company says is socially conscious with inspiration coming from individuality, originality and, interestingly, ice cream. It is not to be 'defined by a certain demographic or race, on the contrary we bring forth cultures and races together to form an undeniable revolution in the streets.'

The ice-cream factor was kind of puzzling to me, but the press release mentioned how ice cream somehow makes visits to the dentist or doctor bearable for little kids. According to the company, 'That's what it feels like to be DIPT in our garments. It's a feel good type of thing.' And this statement, which I love: 'If you dig it, cop it and rock it with respect.'

What's especially admirable about the company is its dedication to being socially conscious. It acknowledges that it's tough out there in the world today, but, 'if we put aside our racial, ethnic and political differences we can become a very powerful force for the greater good.'

Of the three T-shirts, the one I like best is the DIPT Southern. It's a white tee with the words, 'Sweeping the streets since 1980,' under the logo and a cute ice-cream cone on the front. I'd definitely wear that.

There's also the classic tee. A twist on the Newport cigarettes 'Pleasure' logo from the 1980s, the white tee has orange lettering with the words, 'For all to enjoy.'

Finally, the DIPT CR3W tee is a nod to New York. There's an apple graphic with 'NY' in the middle and the slogan, 'Everyone wants a bite.' The vibrant colors are blue and orange.

The T-shirts are available in men's and women's sizes and retail for $24. They are available at www.diptnyc.com.