Steel City's Founders: Brandon and Carly

A Labor of Love

We’re Brandon and Carly, and our journey began in the most humble of places—a garage, with a modest sum of money and a screen printing kit we found on eBay. It wasn’t a glamorous start, but it was ours. We were fueled by a passion for creativity and a desire to build something meaningful, something that would resonate with people on a deeper level. Our days were filled with learning the ins and outs of screen printing, mastering the craft one mistake at a time, and our nights were dedicated to dreaming about what Steel City could become.

The road wasn’t easy. We didn’t have a blueprint for success, and the resources we had were limited. But what we lacked in experience and funds, we made up for in determination and hard work. We poured everything we had into this brand—our time, our energy, and most importantly, our love. Steel City was born out of this labor of love, a testament to the power of persistence and the belief that we could build something that would inspire and connect people.

Built with Blood, Sweat, and Steel

In the early years, our days were spent hustling at every indie craft fair and maker market we could find. We set up shop on bridges and in parking lots, anywhere we could showcase our designs and share our story. It was a grind, but it was also an education. Each market taught us something new, whether it was about the business side of things or about our customers and what they were looking for. We didn’t just sell t-shirts. We sold the story behind them, and that story started to resonate with people.

The challenges were many, from long hours to financial uncertainty, but we embraced them all because we knew this was what it took to build something real. As we grew, so did our following. The people who bought our shirts weren’t just customers — they became part of the Steel City family. They connected with the values we stood for: hard work, perseverance, and the pride of being from a place that’s known for its toughness and grit.

With each passing year, we expanded, slowly but surely. Our first retail store was a milestone that felt like a dream come true, but it was just the beginning. We wanted each person who walked into our stores to feel like they were part of something special — like they were stepping into a space that was as much about community as it was about clothing. 

Our stores became an extension of our brand, a place where people could tangibly experience Steel City beyond just the products we sold.

Always Forward

Steel City is more than just a brand; it’s a reflection of the American Dream. It represents the idea that with enough hard work and dedication, you can build something that you’re proud of, and something that stands the test of time. We all have stories to tell — stories about our families, our hometowns, and the things that matter most to us. At Steel City, it’s our mission to tell those stories through our clothing.

When you wear a Steel City tee, you’re not just wearing a piece of fabric. You’re wearing a story, a connection to something bigger than yourself. Our designs are inspired by the things that bind us together: our shared love for our hometown, our pride in where we come from, and our respect for the hard work that defines us. 

Whether it’s a shirt that celebrates Pittsburgh’s rich history or one that pays homage to a beloved local sports team, every piece of clothing we create is meant to be a reminder of what it means to be part of a community.

Moving forward, our goal is to continue growing and evolving, while staying true to the values that got us here. We’re constantly looking for new ways to connect with our customers and to tell the stories that matter to them. Whether it’s through new designs, collaborations, or events, we’re committed to keeping Steel City fresh and relevant, while never losing sight of where we started.

Building a Legacy

Our journey from a small garage operation to a recognized brand is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief in a dream. Steel City was built to create something that would last, something that could be passed down through generations. We want to be more than just a t-shirt company; we want to leave a legacy that inspires others to chase their dreams, no matter how big or small.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s important — but at Steel City, we’re committed to staying grounded in the values that have always guided us. We believe in hard work, in the power of community, and in the importance of staying true to who you are. These are the principles that have shaped our brand, and they’re the ones that will continue to drive us forward.

The Steel City Family

One of the most rewarding aspects of our journey has been the community we’ve built along the way. 

The people who support Steel City aren’t just customers — they’re family. They’ve been with us through the ups and downs, and their loyalty and passion for what we do is what keeps us going. Whether it’s someone who’s been with us since the beginning or a new fan who’s just discovered our brand, each person who wears our clothing becomes a part of the Steel City story.

We’ve always said that Steel City is more than just a location on the map, and that’s because it’s true. It’s a mindset, a way of life that’s defined by a love for family, hometown pride, and a commitment to hard work. 

It’s about embracing the challenges that come your way and turning them into opportunities. And it’s about knowing that no matter where you go, you’ll always have a piece of home with you.

Looking to the Future

As we look to the future, we’re excited about what’s to come. We have big plans for Steel City, from expanding our product line to reaching new audiences — but no matter how much we grow, we’ll always stay true to the values that have been with us since day one. Steel City was born out of a labor of love, and that love is what will continue to fuel our journey.

We’re grateful for every person who’s been a part of our story so far, and we can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or you’re just discovering Steel City for the first time, we’re honored to have you along for the ride. Here’s to the future and to the stories we’ll continue to tell together.