Take, for example, the founder of beloved Brooklyn-based brand The Brooklyn Circus, Ouigi Theodore, who just released a vintage-inspired FIFA collection with GAP—including jerseys for team Brazil, France, Spain, and more. “The collection is inspired by my love of football and my love of sportswear,” Theodore, who opened the first Brooklyn Circus store in 2006, tells ESSENCE via video call. 

Additionally, as someone born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, naturally, Theodore drew major inspiration from Haiti’s 1974 football team—the first Haitian team to ever qualify for the World Cup—for what he’s calling the OuiGap sector of the collection. “Oddly enough, as time and God would serve, the day before we were to do the big unveiling of the samples to the whole team, we had everything ready the day before the current Haiti team qualified again,” he shares.

“So we walked into the meeting with this idea that not only did we pull inspiration from ‘74, but also that the collection was relevant to the current team. Everything that we do is push and pull—past meets future,” he shares. Theodore adds that OuiGap—which includes everything from stylish tracksuits to striped jerseys and mesh polo tops—is perfect for folks attending watch parties and games this season. Or, perhaps for someone looking for a versatile and stylish gift to give this Father’s Day.

Not only that, Theodore wants you to know the pieces can be multifaceted, and worn beyond the stadium, as well. “You can put on a pair of boots or a pair of shoes and show up to a rooftop party for a vibe, and not necessarily look like you’re pulling up to a game,” he shares.

In true fast-pace New Yorker fashion, “you can show up at the barbershop, then show up at the game, and even a cool casual date and still feel dressed appropriately.” For example, “I drew inspiration from the goalie’s net—but the shirt has a collar, and the V-neck overlap. So it feels sportswear-inspired, but it’s not necessarily only for you to sweat in it.” 

Furthermore, Theodore adds that, just because it’s summer, you shouldn’t be afraid of layering, either. “Women have always been great at this, but I think that the key is layering,” he says. “It’s always difficult to layer in the summer, but if you’re doing the lighter layers, like a light windbreaker, you can go from an air conditioned terminal or office to the subway and out into the streets, and then take it off and put it around you,” he says.

“Layers are also important because they add depth to the outfit. And, when done correctly, you’re not sweating up a storm trying to be the cool guy with too many clothes on and you’re burning up.” And, for those reasons, he and the team emphasized using breathable fabrics throughout the collection.  

And, in the midst of it being Men’s Health Month, Theodore is naturally reflecting on the importance of having a solid self-care routine, especially as a busy founder. “Working out, running, and cycling,” he says of the things keeping him grounded.

“I also love to be at home. I love to take my Sabbath and just chill and do absolutely nothing. Chill time and family time for me are quite important because I work hard,” he adds. “But running is really my thing. I’ve run all the major marathons as well. I try to stay active and eat well,” he adds. “I also love music. I was a DJ for many, many years,” before he retired in his late 20s and pivoted into the fashion industry. 

And these rituals of rest, relaxation, and stopping to smell the roses are even more important now that this new collection marks Theodore’s 23rd year in the fashion industry, and a 20-year milestone for The Brooklyn Circus.

“It actually really feels like yesterday that I started, but I’m still just as excited, believe it or not,” he says. “I can see why people don’t retire—or if they do retire, they’re somewhere looming around because, with the work that we do, I get to meet the most amazing people and I also get to see the most amazing people grow,” he shares. “It’s unbelievable the things that we’ve seen over the years. So it’s exciting.” And here’s to 20 more.