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SAN BERNARDINO, CA- The Inland Empire has become a Mecca for the fashion industry. Local residents shop at specialty boutiques, attend fashion shows or begin careers as fashion designers. Paul Martinez, a San Bernardino resident, plans to be a leader in this movement with the launch of his clothing brand, Fresh Clinic, early next year.
Martinez has been obsessed with fashion since his first day of college at UC Riverside. “I remember thinking that if I wanted to make myself presentable to employers in the fashion industry, then I better start taking my clothes more serious,” said Martinez.
As a new college graduate, Martinez struggled to find a job and fashion internships were competitive. Financial setbacks and the economy made Martinez a fashion entrepreneur. Fresh Clinic started as a blog for Martinez to express his love for fashion, but because of the weak job market it’s now become a business. Fresh Clinic combines urban and upscale clothing for a unique take on modern fashion.
Martinez embraces what his home, the Inland Empire, can bring to the table.
“I believe it is important to buy from local designers, hire local models and work with local professionals. The only way the Inland Empire will be competitive in this industry is if we work together and bridge the gap with professionals in Los Angeles,” said Martinez.
Martinez works with local graphic designer Luke Vicious, of Rialto, to design a collection of shirts.
“I have been following Luke for a few years as a fan of his art, but now it’s cool we are working together,” said Martinez.
Vicious has made his impression on the fashion industry for the past few years, and designs for Los Angeles brands StampdLA,
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TISA and JoyRich.
As a young veteran in the fashion industry, Vicious is confident in Martinez’s future success.
“Paul is a great client to work with, being that his ideas have meaning behind them. It motivates me to do my best, and I see his graphics as works of art that tell a story. These original concepts will always stand out because they can’t be bought on a site or duplicated. This makes Fresh Clinic a rare, valuable brand because it keeps fashion traditions alive,” said Vicious.
Martinez also works with Amanda Pelaez, a graphic designer and graduate of Cal State San Bernardino.
“I like Amanda’s work because she is able to design the ideas I give her without needing much direction. She is definitely a self starter who does not waste time,” said Martinez.
Pelaez is excited about her work with Fresh Clinic. “Working with Paul has always been gratifying. He knows what he wants, and he tells you clearly & concisely. I look forward to the future of Fresh Clinic,” said Pelaez.
Martinez is hopeful for the future. He now has a job and is managing his own business.
“I learned to create opportunities for myself, instead of waiting for them to come my way. I encourage everyone, especially the youth in our communities, to do the same.”
Fresh Clinic’s goal for the community is to provide free fashion shows, fashion events and scholarships to Inland Empire residents.
“I want to give our people something to look forward to, to bring hope back into their lives. We all have a long road ahead, but the most important message is to never give up. I’m happy to say my team has no room for quitters.”
You may contact Fresh Clinic by email at FreshClinic@live.com. Visit the Fresh Clinic website at www.FreshClinicLife.com for updates on the brand and follow Fresh Clinic’s Creative Director on Instagram @freshclinicpaul.
