Today, we’d like to introduce you to Don Nechtman.
Hi Don, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My passion for fashion began in middle school, sparked by the rise of sneakerhead culture among youth in the early 2010s, along with a deep appreciation for rap music. In February 2013, I set my sights on becoming a fashion designer and entrepreneur by launching my brand, Super Soles. By the time I entered high school the following year, I recognized the power of social media as a tool for growth.
Back then, I went by the name “BTG” or “Yung BTG,” which stood for Beyond The Grind. I created an Instagram account with a long-term strategy in mind. Knowing I needed funding before producing quality content, I focused on building an audience first. I went around my entire school asking students to follow me. Through consistency and persistence, starting as a freshman and continuing each year, I grew my following to 14,000 by graduation.
During high school, I also resold sneakers through a Facebook group based in South Florida, called Soles and Hoes, which helped me save up for my first T-shirt drop. That first design was released to the public in November 2018.
In December 2018, I started working at a local Dunkin’ Donuts and enrolled at Miami Dade College. Eventually, I made the decision to leave school and commit full-time to building my business. Since then, I’ve expanded my social media presence and earned co-signs from Soulja Boy, Riff Raff, and NBA player Tyler Herro. As of 2024, my original brand, Super Soles, has evolved and been rebranded as Off-Stitch.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been easy. Choosing the path of entrepreneurship often means walking alone, and that can be intimidating. Most people won’t relate because many don’t see themselves as capable of making it, so they don’t understand those who try. And that’s okay.
I’ve faced moments of self-doubt too. But my faith in God has grounded me. Through that belief, I’ve come to realize that I’ve been closer than I thought to becoming the man I’ve always aspired to be.
As you know, we’re big fans of Off-Stitch. For our readers who might not be as familiar with the brand, what can you tell them about it?
Off-Stitch is a forward-thinking contemporary clothing brand dedicated to shaping the future. We specialize in affordable, premium-quality goods and are committed to creating local manufacturing opportunities in South Florida. Formerly known as Super Soles, the brand has been worn by notable names such as Soulja Boy and NBA player Tyler Herro. One of our highlights was hosting a Super Soles pop-up event at Xtreme Action Park in Fort Lauderdale during the 2020 holiday season.
One of my proudest moments with the brand was the release of our Italian-made sneaker, the Super Soles “Fashion Stars.” I used to sketch sneakers in class; less than a decade later, I launched one at just 21 years old. Receiving the prototype in the mail was surreal, but seeing others wear them on social media made it even more rewarding.
So maybe we end by discussing what matters most to you and why.
What matters most to me, in this order, is God first, family second, followed by truth and creativity. As an individual raised with steadfast values and unshakable principles, I recognize that God has blessed me with everything I have. I can never turn my back on Him. Family is my foundation and constant support. Truth guides my actions and decisions, while creativity drives my passion and innovation. These pillars define who I am and how I conduct both my life and work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.offstitch.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/donnechtman and https://instagram.com/offstitch
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/donnechtman
Image Credits
The Pixel Plug and Todd Nechtman
