This past March, local designers Tim and Thom Navarro, together with Jim and Katy Vereide, opened “You and Me,” a clothing and jewelry store. Tim and Thom design and make the clothing, and Katy makes jewelry to go with it. The store is very welcoming and Tim and Thom instantly make you feel at home. Most recently, the Navarro brothers have been working on their fall designs. After talking with them for a few minutes it’s easy to see that they have a strong passion for what they’re doing.

The Wake: What got you interested in designing clothes?
Tim & Thom: Our grandpa was a tailor. We’re the youngest ones in the family so we always had to tailor [hand-me-down] clothes to fit us.

W: What are your fall designs like?
T&T: We’re doing more of a fall and winter idea. Using more dense materials and playing around with things. We like more practical clothing.

W: Do you have any upcoming projects?
T&T: We’re doing a lot of custom work, that eats up most of our time. We’re probably going to have a trunk show when our line is complete.

W: What styles do you personally like to wear?
T&T: When we’re working, whatever is most comfortable. We like vests and slacks. That’s most comfortable for us on a regular basis. It’s a nice look for any occasion.

W: What’s your inspiration for your designs?
T&T: Music and environment. We ride bikes a lot and we’re very active so we try to make clothes that are appropriate for people [who are] part of active things. We make normal-wear, not high fashion clothes.

W: Do you think Minneapolis has a unique style?
T&T: Minneapolis culture is relaxed and laid back. I think it’s a huge melting pot and people dress based on their personality, it’s eclectic. It hasn’t refined it’s style yet.

W: What styles do you not like for fall?
T&T: It’s hard to say. I don’t know until I see it. Fashion rules, like don’t wear white shoes after labor day, are getting debunked. People bring out winter clothes too soon. Something we really like though is scarves.

W: What makes your designs special?
T&T: The lines we create are simplified and really detailed. They’re all about cut, colors, and the finished product. We don’t use crazy patterns. What’s nice is we make clothes for more generic body types, not just for size two models.

W: How long have you been designing?
T&T: Officially since 2004. Unofficially since we were young. We would make our friends’ Halloween costumes, then we realized we could actually make money doing it.

W: Are there any designers you look up to?
T&T: Classic American Sportswear designers. I love that esthetic. We’re more inspired by local designers.

You can find their store, You and Me, at 2114B Lyndale Ave S, or on facebook at www.facebook.com/shopyouandme

Tags: cities, fashion