Local fashion brand MELI is working to change the way Hoosiers think about streetwear.
Created by founder and creative director Monty Matuka, MELI stands for “More Equality, Less Ignorance.” Matuka launched the sophisticated streetwear brand in 2020 with the goal of designing and using clothing to elevate the community by articulating themes of confidence and mindfulness and in turn, inspiring those who wear MELI clothing.
MELI hosts community-centered events, workshops and First Friday pop-ups and is active with Circle City Storytellers to help provide a platform for others to share their stories. The luxury clothing brand also “seeks to promote equality and cross-cultural awareness” — which is what inspired MELI’s partnership with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the 2023 Indy 500.
The collaboration — called MELI Motorsports — was inspired by the history of auto racing and aimed to pay homage to minority trailblazers in the sport. The line, which is still available on MELI’s website, includes clothing items with motorsport-themed graphics and designs that include a more urban take on classic racing jackets and vintage racing t-shirts.
For more information about MELI, visit meli-intl.com or visit the MELI Showroom in Fountain Square, located at 43 Virginia Ave.
This minority business highlight was composed by CHLOE McGOWAN at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at 317-762-7848 or via email at chloegm@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!
