Erie Apparel Takes Pride in Capturing All Things Erie: Giving You the Business

If you grew up in Erie, or have lived in the area for a while, you know there's certain sayings, like: "A horse a piece," that are commonplace.

The staff at an Erie clothing company takes pride in capturing all of it. Erie News Now will share how they've kept adding to the collection.

If you love Erie, and like to show it, there's a that can help you show it in a mighty fine way.

Dozens of "Erie-area" slogans and places are represented here at Erie Apparel. Thought up "in part" by co-owner Greg Straub.

A discussion with his brother-in-law, at a family picnic, led the pair – who are both in advertising and Erie County natives – into a side venture 10 years ago.

"I would come up with the designs, he would learn how to sell them," said Greg.

Greg says they first opened the business in a basement. It was slow in the beginning, however: 

"The real change for us was when we had a 40-day pop-up in the Millcreek Mall for the holiday season," said Greg. "The public response was excellent." 

The next year, in 2017, this store along W. 12th St. in Millcreek opened.

"My son said you gotta [sic] go over and check out this store, and I did, and I can't stop coming back," said Robert Wallace, customer. 

Erie native Robert Wallace brings in new ideas and customers, too. Like his friend, visiting from Canada. Online orders are also a big part of the business.

Warrick, the store manager, prints them off and gets the gear in the back warehouse, ready for pickup or shipping.

The owner, Greg, workers with two other designers. The big thing the team is working on right now, is Solar Eclipse products. 

Several different versions are available, as the store capitalizes on Erie being in the path of totality for the 2024 phenomenon.

Hometown pride is also shown on glasses, mugs, and stickers.

"I love the nostalgia and past history, what I grew up noticing references from the area, and Erie landmarks," said Don Lazan, Girard Native. 

Don isn't alone in liking the Presque Isle products. But the most popular item? Anything 814, or with the collage of all things Erie.

They can also be found in the downtown Erie store at 5th and State Streets called City Supply. The supply for your local flavor.

While Erie Apparel does work with local businesses, they don't do orders for smaller events. But the staff does take suggestions from customers.

As for solar eclipse gear, glasses to view the event are also available for sale.