Broken Dreams: Birmingham Trio Launches Inclusive Clothing Brand for All Genders and Ages

Driven by a passion for creativity and self-expression, the founders of the Broken Dreams clothing brand always knew they were destined to collaborate for a greater cause. After much consideration, Jonathan Blanks, Carlton Gamble, and Anthony Sears, friends since their teenage years, decided to join forces and launch their first collection in 2014.

The brand is designed for all genders and ages, characterized by its colorful yet simplistic style. However, there's a deeper message behind the apparel. "The entire concept of the brand is to keep pushing, maintain your faith, and always believe in yourself," explained 32-year-old Gamble, also known as "Tae."

"As you keep pushing, things will start to manifest, and you’ll be able to see things come together for you," he added. "Keep pushing and keep your faith, regardless of what might happen."

Foundation of Brotherhood

Brotherhood is a fundamental pillar for the Broken Dreams team. Blanks, 32, and Sears, 33, first met in middle school and later attended Minor High School in Adamsville, Alabama. They were introduced to Gamble through a mutual friend, forming a trio that has been inseparable ever since. Their friendship evolved into a business relationship when they reconnected at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).

“We all had a passion for it and an interest in it,” Blanks said, noting that the group came up with a plan, concept, and name quite naturally. Although fashion was always a shared interest, they lacked business knowledge. One night at Blanks' apartment, the idea of starting a clothing line surfaced, and they unanimously agreed it was achievable. The name "Broken Dreams" was conceived that same night.

“The name resonated with us because it has multiple layers,” Blanks recalled. “It represents overcoming any obstacles or setbacks that may come in life. Never stop working toward your dreams and goals.”

Inspiration and Collaboration

Inspiration for their clothing designs comes from various sources, such as music, travels, and anything positive. Each member brings unique ideas to the table, contributing to the brand's diverse image. “We all have unique styles, but they’re kind of the same,” Gamble noted.

The design process starts with a concept, often a small piece like a jacket, which is then expanded upon. Gamble typically designs the mock-ups, which are reviewed and refined by the team. They discuss fabrics, cuts, colors, samples, marketing strategies, and more until the final product is ready. The manufacturing process takes approximately two weeks for samples to return.

Broken Dreams offers clothing for men, women, and children, priced between $12 and $185. “We put a lot of thought into the pieces and the quality of the product,” Sears emphasized.

Blanks added, “We’re not just here to make a quick dollar. We spend more on high quality and cut our profit to give the people a better product.”

The Strength of Brotherhood

Blanks, Gamble, and Sears have faced personal challenges, but their brotherhood has always been a source of strength. “If one of us is lacking or going through something, we know our brother will have our back,” Blanks said. “I’ve been through a lot, and there were times when I couldn’t be part of certain things, but it wasn’t an issue for the brand because they had my back and vice versa.”

Sears agreed, “I look at them like brothers. If they ever need something, I’ll give it. Loving each other prevents conflicts.”

Gamble highlighted the absence of egos in their partnership: “We’re brothers, and we know how to separate business from brotherhood. We don’t have fallouts. It’s a brotherhood with no egos, and we’ve been going strong for over 10 years.”

Honoring Their Mothers

The founders share the trauma of losing their mothers, which has strengthened their bond. Sears lost his mother in 2005, Gamble in 2011, and Blanks in 2019. They've supported each other through these difficult times.

“I had to depend on my brothers to help me through that, as well as help with the brand,” Blanks said. “These guys inspire me, and my mom inspires me to keep going and make her proud.”

Although there isn’t a specific collection dedicated to their mothers yet, the team believes each collection honors them in some way. “Ever since [my mother’s death], it’s been about making it happen and not falling off because she wouldn’t want that,” Gamble said.

Future Aspirations

The Broken Dreams team aims to leave a lasting legacy of resilience and perseverance. “Never quitting regardless of the circumstances is part of life,” Sears said. “Everyone will face challenges that either inspire them to go further or quit. I want to keep going and do it with love.”

Looking ahead, Gamble envisions the clothing line becoming a Birmingham staple, comparable to the statue of Vulcan or the Birmingham Museum of Art. “We want to be one of the biggest fashion brands or just brands period, as we plan to expand beyond fashion,” he said.

Blanks added, “We want to be the biggest brand possible. We’re trying to be worldwide. It’s not easy to get people to buy your product, especially in Birmingham. Accomplishing that was a significant milestone for us.”