The Campus

"We manufacture and sell the largest selection of Harlem-themed t-shirts in the world," according to the website www.HarlemUnderground.com. Harlem Underground, located at 20 East 125th Street between Fifth and Madison, is a small boutique that lives up to its reputation.

"But it's true and cool," says a current employee. Founded in 1998, the main objective of this boutique is to represent Harlem in the fashion world while also using natural fabrics for the clothes. Not hailing from Harlem, but attending CCNY, I can instantly respect the mission of the boutique.

As I walk on 125th, crossing over Fifth Avenue, to a burger place on the corner, I notice a green sign that reads HARLEM UNDERGROUND with the boutique's logo on the side. It may be small, but don't judge it by its size. On the window is a Muhammad Ali short sleeve shirt in a golden picture frame, and in the other window is a white short sleeve shirt with President Obama's face in red and the words, "Yes we can," emblazoned across.

I open the door and a sales associate greets me, "Welcome to Harlem Underground where we represent Harlem fashion. Can I help you?" I want to see their Harlem-themed t-shirts. The sales associate guides me to what seem to be endless shelves of tees. The shirt that catches my eye is a black shirt with Angela Davis holding up her fist, saluting "Black Power". Along with the Harlem Underground brand they sell different designers' shirts in the store such as Marc Ecko, LTB, and Exodus Label.

Other than endless t-shirts to my right, next to the cashier is a sewing machine. This is really exciting and usual to see. The shirts and jeans from LTB look fantastic. They sell men's five-pocket, fitted, dark-blue denim jeans with rips on the thigh. There isn't a lot to choose from if you are a female, but you could check out their website for a more expansive selection.

With the graphic tee and skinny jeans look, in style for the past couple of years, a lot of students here at CCNY will want to head down Harlem Underground. Shirts are priced from $16 to $40, hooded sweatshirts are $25 to $45, and jeans range from $40 to $60. Too pricey for your budget? Well from the store interior design and great customer service, I'm quite sure you will come out of Harlem Underground with something.

The sewing machine inside is an ingenious addition to the store. They don't get a completely stellar review because even though the customer service is great, the selection of women's apparel is weak. I recommend Harlem Underground to everyone because the urban/street wear is definitely haute and will be around for a while. Even though a lot of us are from different backgrounds and cultures, we go to CCNY and this glorious neighborhood and culture is a part of us! Harlem Underground takes great pride in the Harlem culture and is representing it to the fullest.

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