I love a staple piece of clothing, especially hats. No matter the time of year or the weather, the only thing that keeps me from wearing a hat is my big hair. And even then, I will find a way, depending on the outfit. These days we all have witnessed a rise of new brands and businesses, whether it’s jewelry, clothing, food trucks, or handcrafted health products. The list goes on. I am also a sucker for a summertime pop-up shop or street festival when there is access to new businesses to shop with and support. It’s even better when my friends are vendors for those events. It’s like having the inside scoop on who to look for and the time for pre-shopping from the vendor’s list. When I attend any vending event, I like to have my wallet ready with some extra cash because I know I expect to purchase a bomb plate of food, some handcrafted soaps or body butter, and clothing of any type! Fashion is probably my first love, or maybe it’s food. Either or, I’m here for quality!
I arrived with my friend, who was participating as a vendor for the first time during Homecoming season for my Alma Mater, Shaw University. The event was intimate, entertaining, informative, and full of HBCU alums and supporters actively networking to extend their brand to new consumers. Once, I helped my friend set up her vendor’s table; I moved on to explore other vendor tables when I noticed PreyFourLove. I was intrigued by the way they approached and redefined the meaning of “Prey” and combined it with the act of praying and the concept of preying on something. When broken down by designer Karl Hill, PreyFourLove reflects on how much work is required once we pray to God for anything. Attempting to seize what you desire for yourself through your goals and ambitions, you must pray as well as put in the work. I instantly pictured Jeopardy and heard, “Sweat equity for 500 Alex”. Okay, maybe not all sweat equity, but you get it. No barriers become broken, and no accomplishments are granted without prayer, work, and dedication. I idolize this brand for its continued message and elevation from a starter company to an evolving luxury brand.
What did I purchase? Remember, I ‘m a hat girl! So, of course, I made the purchase in a hurry. If you’ve been to any vendor driven occasion, then you know the products are limited compared to being able to purchase online or in-store. As I scoped the entire room, I saw this chocolate brown hat on the shelf, along with; a crowd of people speaking with Karl about his designs. I began to get a bit anxious because mostly hats are a steal for men, women, kids and anyone could grab the few hats on hand. Luckily, I made my way in the crowd before it was too late and claimed my new hat.
June 2023
Preyers Club
Shot by Shanice King
A chocolate brown, adjustable trucker hat with a net back. In addition the cap has a rope detail across the brim with holographic lettering spelling out “Preyers Club.” A plus is that nothing is fading or peeling off the hat. There is no question I have purchased items from smaller companies, and the product is cheap. I typically go for dad hats, but because this is foam style, I am able to wear it with more hairstyles than I usually would. In addition, the durability is all around quality. After packing my things for a move, it was one of the few hats that didn’t get damaged in spite of correctly packing my closet. Did I mention it’s super comfortable! I can be either stylish or incognito. Depending on the mission, Ha!
You can find the latest from PreyFourLove on their Instagram. Earlier this year they released the 2023 collection featuring luxury zipper coats, sweat shorts, cruiser shorts and more. Establishing themselves as more than a small t-shirt and cap line PreyFourLove is now in their first store front located in Bowie, Maryland at “What Should I Call My Store.”
