Survival is an urban fashion brand created by Miami-based entrepreneurs Manny Garcia and Gregory Morales in 2016. The two aim to create a community and be positive leaders and role models by using fashion as a voice to motivate the youth and inspire others. 90's Hip-Hop, sneakers, and a love for fashion inspired them to create the brand. Growing up, they were always the best dressed in school and stood out with their sneakers and outfits. Their love for fashion developed into hustle and hunger and ultimately into the Survival brand.
Manny and Gregory partnered to start a business, Survival Clothing & Footwear, which directly led to the establishment of their brand. Determined to achieve their vision, and without a single hand-out, they ventured into the competitive industry. They brought a unique style to urban wear that rapidly propelled Survival to the forefront of Streetwear's Elite, fueling a new dynamic in retail and design that did not exist in the South Florida menswear/streetwear market.
Survival Clothing is the epitome of a culture-forward brand that pays massive attention to detail. When asked what they think Survival Clothing’s strongest edge is, one of the founders responded, "We are also unique for the brands/products we carry at Survival. We carry many underground brands; we produce all of our in-house brands ourselves and are exclusive to Survival. We also carry a lot of Heritage Brands such as New Balance, Karhu, Saucony, Diadora, and Asics that set us apart from the average footwear boutiques/stores.” They do not use middlemen since they create their designs, develop, manufacture, and create content for the brand. The innovative businessmen also market their products, making Survival a one-stop brand for fashion.
For over six years, Survival Clothing has continued to push boundaries in fashion. Although many businesses failed during the pandemic, Survival managed to grow and thrive during this period. The ardent entrepreneurs launched four retail stores in South Florida, and an e-commerce platform, and have several in-house brands, such as Paradise Lost, THRT Denim, and Yesterday is Dead, among others. "We also secured space at one of the top three malls in America: Aventura. We have created job opportunities for over 50 people while positively impacting many people's lives and expanding to new avenues such as jewelry, wholesale, and footwear," says Gregory.
Manny added, "Amazingly, we also found a way not only to break trends and bring awareness to the community but lead our industry in product development and now offer wholesale for our in-house brands to over 500 international boutiques. We are humbled that our self-made brand is now creating generational wealth. We also look to inspire and educate the youth and be positive examples to pave the way for more successful minorities in the community. The key is not only to survive but to strive and prosper."
Survival brand’s rise to success did not happen overnight. They faced many obstacles along the way but overcame them. Just like the definition of the word, “survival”, Manny and Gregory adapted to challenges and prospered. According to them, anyone looking forward to establishing a business should do it now. Don't wait for a perfect time or when you think you are ready, as that time may never come. The dynamic team plans to expand their supplies worldwide and launch more in-house brands in the coming years.
