We had the good fortune of connecting with Darrell Alston and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Darrell, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I was in a situation where I had to create my own busines in order to survive. That’s the best way I can put it. Because I had a criminal background, I couldn’t get hired at a big sneaker company. So I had to create my own.

What should our readers know about your business?
Launching Bungee in 2017 with a variety of colorful, carefully crafted sneakers, Alston built a loyal following in the Philadelphia area. A self-taught designer who learned about sewing, embossing and detailing by watching YouTube, Alston soon fine-tuned his manufacturing and upgraded his materials.

In 2020, Alston secured financing from private investors and expanded his brand to include new lines of footwear and apparel. In 2021, Bungee’s sneakers launched at Foot Locker in the King of Prussia Mall, making Alston the first Philadelphia designer to be carried by the footwear retailer.

Bungee’s name is a nod to Alston’s past, which has more ups and downs than a bungee jump. Alston grew up in the Philadelphia suburbs and became a star of his high school’s football team. Turning down college scholarships, Alston landed a record deal and toured with some of the biggest names in hip hop.

But the rapper lifestyle was expensive to maintain. To keep up appearances, Alston made money by selling drugs. That landed Alston in prison – several times. Alston spent most of adult life in prison or on parole.

While he takes responsibility for his actions, Alston wishes he’d had different role models and avenues of advancement. Those themes – finding opportunities, independence of thought and hard work – are messages that Alston hammers home every time he speaks to groups of young people.

While incarcerated, Alston sketched designs for what would become Bungee Oblečení’s line of footwear.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite spots in Philadelphia have to do with the art and history of the city. I love the art galleries in Old City and the history there, too. Of course we have a lot of great restaurants.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d have to thank Ernest Judd. He saw samples of my first sneaker designs in the window of the barbershop where I worked. He liked the designs and gave me a chance to pitch him on my business plan. Shortly thereafter, he became my first investor. And of course, I have to thank my mom … for everything. But especially because, when I was in prison, she sent me books about writing a business plan.

Website: bungeebrand.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bungeebrand/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bungeebrand/

Image Credits
Photos by Bungee Oblečení.

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