By Polina Smith
People who change the world are those who are crazy about their dreams and display great passions for what they believe in, just like Angela Tsay. Passion for her culture is what makes her business success so inspiring. Today, Oaklandish has one of the greatest local brand stories in America that has not only succeeded in spreading local love, but also in pioneering civic pride in the city of Oakland.
Angela Tsay’s passion for fashion is inspired by pure love and genuine interest in priding Oakland. Oaklandish started as a public art project with the vision to showcase the history and cultural values of Oakland in the year 2000. The brand continued to gain popularity and started branding Oakland wares for street festivals in 2005. Today, Oaklandish is recognized as one of the fastest inner city businesses in America with over $3.26 million in revenue as of 2015.
In 2006, Angela experienced career-changing exposure at her first Saturday at the Grand Lake Farmers’ Market with a booth. She was eye-opened to people’s commitment to Oakland pride, inspired by their investment in her message. Oaklandish connects the people to the Oakland culture and fuels their spirit to represent and support the city.
Oaklandish is led with love at its helm, rather than economic profit, which allows people to feel directly connected to Oakland through this brand. Community is at the center of Oaklandish’s business and this force has motivated them to always prioritize the needs of their community and customer service first.
As an investor in Bay Area nonprofits specifically set out to support local women, men, and children, Oaklandish gives more to the community than it takes back. This brand creates space in its mission for partnerships with other companies and organizations that share the great desire to spread local love. They continue to partner with brands such as Adidas and Town Park to produce sportswear, skateboards, and more.
CEO Angela Tsay ignited the burning fire of local love and has done her part in unifying Oakland by allowing people to express their unity with their clothing. Oaklandish will keep growing by connecting the people of Oakland to what they love: beauty, arts, and culture.
Oaklandish Product Gallery
Oaklandish has fashionable and comfy wear, including great accessories that genuinely connect with the roots of Oakland.
Hiero Crop Hoody
$58
Get your cute on with this crop pullover hoody
Root SC Mosaic Tee Pack
$130
The Oakland Roots Sports Club seeks to harness the magic of Oakland and the beautiful game of soccer as a force for social good. This is a nod to the role that sports continues to play in building passion and pride in the City. One color for every day of the week.
Retro Classic Socks
$15
These retro classic socks are perfect for hard training sessions. They make you feel comfortable by absorbing sweat and odor.
Hiero Logo Cuff Beanie
$32
The accessory of the season, available in 5 colors.
Oaklandish Classic snapback
$34
This snapback is made with 100% cotton for a warm and comfortable fit. You can wear your pride, styled with your favorite dress.
Women’s Ancient Roots Tee
$30
Oakland’s roots story that declares its feminine power and our part in shaping the City.