How Obey Clothing Was Created | Steve Mellgren's Journey from Screen Printing to Streetwear Icon

05/02/2025 55 min
How Obey Clothing Was Created | Steve Mellgren's Journey from Screen Printing to Streetwear Icon

Listen "How Obey Clothing Was Created | Steve Mellgren's Journey from Screen Printing to Streetwear Icon"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode of Tidemark Talks, we sit down with Steve Mellgren, the founder of Obey Clothing and Dimensions screen printing. Steve shares his incredible journey from welding in Torrance to building one of the most iconic streetwear brands in the world alongside artist Shepard Fairey. Learn how unexpected opportunities, strategic partnerships, and creative thinking helped shape Obey into a global phenomenon. Whether you're an entrepreneur or a streetwear fan, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on business growth, resilience, and the power of staying under the radar.Our website: https://tidemarkrealestate.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tidemarkrealestate/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tidemarkrealestateLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18063320/admin/dashboard/Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Meet Steve Mellgren, founder of Obey Clothing01:59 – The beginnings of Dimensions screen printing and Obey Clothing03:09 – How a random FedEx box from Shepard Fairey started it all06:59 – Growing up in Torrance: From welding to buying his first house as a teen13:27 – Transitioning from welding to sales, and starting Dimensions24:09 – Strategic leasing and real estate investments for business growth32:06 – Steve's success in diversifying through smart investments38:02 – Obey Clothing's growth: Building a dream team and retailer relationships43:12 – Partnering with Shepard Fairey and supporting artists46:23 – The keys to success: Timing, luck, and treating people right52:06 – Steve’s passion for music and his guitar collection

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