Have you ever wanted a vibrant, expressive hoodie that grabs attention and catches eyes? What if that striking hoodie had its own eyes, or even its own face? If you’ve ever walked on campus and noticed a face glaring back at you, then that person was probably wearing a BEAT hoodie.
Hoodies are a closet staple — they provide ultra comfort and versatility. You can wear them to class on a cool Miami day or use them as pajamas. Their reliable coziness and coverage can also help you avoid wardrobe malfunctions.
Moreover, hoodies are cool. That’s what the latest fashion trends seem to imply, at least. As the ultimate essential in streetwear style, today’s hoodies are equipped with hoods, drawstrings and pockets. For some people, they give a sense of belonging and can be a reflection of personality. This concept was harnessed by an artistic UM architecture student who said he’s been illustrating graphics on hoodies for years.
Inspired by streetwear icons like Kanye West and Ronnie Fieg, sophomore Elliot Saeidy pushes streetwear as an art movement. Saeidy’s BEAT hoodie designs feature gritty, rebellious and cross-eyed faces charged with emotion and vulnerability. But for him, BEAT (short for Heartbeat) is more than just a hoodie line. It represents a community of bold students and inspired friends making their mark on campus culture.
Although Saeidy is constantly at the drawing board for BEAT, he can be found on campus building models in the architecture studio. His conceptualization for the BEAT hoodies depend on how he thinks an audience will interpret his art. He probes people in the community about their responses to his clothing, focusing on how the designs make them feel. Saeidy said he especially values having his friends involved in the creative process.
“I have a team of people behind me. When I want to know how it looks, I usually ask certain people. When I want to know how it feels, I will ask my team,” said Saeidy.
Saeidy said art has served as a catalyst in his life — he surrounds himself with creatives who enjoy connecting through art and encourage him to brighten an empty canvas.
“From a young age, art became a part of my identity,” Saeidy said.
Saeidy said his life changed dramatically when he began to direct energy into his artwork.
According to him, it all began when his elementary school art teacher recognized his talent and encouraged him to sign up for art lessons. For the next 12 years, he trained privately in oil painting and drawing. As his brush skills flourished, he instilled a love for art and creating.
“When people ask to buy my art, they buy my hoodies. I don’t want them to have my painting, I want them to wear it,” said Saeidy.
After his first painting sold at age 15, he realized the potential in combining art and fashion, and that original concept remains sound today.
Saeidy’s goal for the future is to grow the BEAT community. He said his vision is to continue creating art and making connections, surrounding himself with people who encourage him to create and wear his art.
“Total strangers have become my friends because they have bought BEAT clothes and become part of the movement,” said Saeidy.
To get your hands on a BEAT hoodie, reach out at heartbeatusaorders@gmail.com or direct message @elliotsaeidy on Instagram.
words & photo_sydney burnett