We started Dirty Coast in 2004 to up the ante on what was passing for local apparel. After the storm, our work took on new gravity as the city rallied around shared symbols and a renewed sense of pride. Now—more than 15 years later—we’ve evolved along with our city, becoming both a tourist destination and a local favorite. Our shirts are secret handshakes, game day standards, and Mardi Gras uniforms. They venerate our icons, promote our causes, and celebrate our way of life.

400+ of shirt designs later, we’ve honed a distinct voice and fostered real trust with our community. We’ve developed a reputation for knowing where to find the perfect poboy, which dive bars have the best jukeboxes, and which festivals you can’t skip.

Everything we make is a proclamation of love. When you truly love something, you share it with as many people as you can. And so, whether you’re a Charity Baby, a transplant, or simply passing through, Dirty Coast helps you be a New Orleanian wherever you are.

We take our connection to the Crescent City seriously. We invest in local creators, partner with those around us making a difference, and lend a hand whenever we can.

Our designs aspire to a higher standard than mere recognition or kitsch. At their best, our shirts stoke nostalgia, spark conversation, and make people laugh. They elicit knowing nods at your neighborhood bar and hearty “who dats” in foreign airports.

We make t-shirts because they’re democratic, both in appeal and in execution: everyone wears them, and anyone can make them.

At Dirty Coast, we believe they can be civic-minded too. We are always looking for local partners we can support with a t-shirt. Fundraising tool and conversation starter, a well made shirt is a walking billboard and the wearer the spokesperson.