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The DNA of 88th Company

The Story of 88th Company

88th Co. Founder

My name is Sonia T., I have been an artist and designer for over a decade. Since I was a little girl, I have been obsessed with history, military relics and design, aviation, automobiles, vintage clothes, and old furniture. So much so, that I wanted to become an archeologist. But with time, my artistic side took over and I started to paint famous military nose art on bags. What started as art replica, it quickly turned into making my original designs on prints, t-shirts, jackets and bags. Finally, I also wanted to move deeper into wearable historical art, by painting a full compositions on the back of jackets and fully hand paint every single accessories such as ribbon and patches. My goal, is to provide you with a one of a kind piece, that will be a conversation starter about history and a wow effect. Feeling special and looking good, makes you feel good! Especially, when everything I make, from the art piece to the packaging, is handmade!

Why 88th?

The number 8 is famous to symbolize self-confidence, professionalism and success. I’m also a great believer in energy. And the number 8 has been the symbol of infinite flow of positive energy! So why only have one 8, when I can have two? 88 emphasizes an abundance of positive energy, which is deeply important in my work and life!

The 88 number is also an homage to my Mom and my two brothers, who have 8 or 88 in their date of birth. It really comes full circle to what 88th Company means to me! It’s about positive energy and family!

Born In Philadelphia, Since 2013

Passion for history and military design

Philadelphia is the city of brotherly love and I had embraced it with all my heart! I owe to Philly my first Army surplus store, the famous and irreplaceable: Goldberg Army & Navy store. There, I found my dream, love and passion! It is also there, where I got my first bags and made my first designs that sold fast on Etsy! The Goldberg Army & Navy store is part of the birth of 88^th Company and will always be part of our history! I’m forever grateful to the store and to Philly!

Inspiration & Themes

Tuskegee Airman Edward Gleed, Amelia Earhart © CORBIS, O. Winston Photo of Trains

Tales of Courage

I love to illustrates tales of courage and valor from historical characters that inspire me! I would like to celebrate women and men of all background that have made a difference in history (from 1900 to 1970). It's important that we remember what they all did, so the future would be better! It would be an honor to paint their stories on unique pieces of art that will spread their message in the 21st century.

The Military

Unfortunate wars has pushed the military to develop the most incredible technological inventions of the 20th century! I love military aircrafts, ships, submarines, tanks and all kind of vehicles. I have been fascinated by the design, technology, engineering, colors, emblems, camouflage, nose art, patches, ribbons and any kind of art form. Furthermore, military uniforms and soldiers' customization are also a great part of my inspiration to create a one of a kind art piece. Finally, it’s also my way to tell incredible stories of bravery and courage from WWI & WWII. I think it’s very important that we don’t forget!

Vehicles

Civilian vehicles industries work closely with the military, so it inspires me too! I love classic cars, vintage motorcycles, bicycles, trucks, cars, trains, racing and anything old! Finally, the industrial force and racing, created their own designs, uniforms, fashion, styling and accessories that hold millions of interesting stories. So, they are an outstanding source of inspiration!

Fashion & Style

Fashion has always been influenced by icons, the military, the industrial revolution and vice versa. For example the M65 field jacket has become a classic jacket for men, that Ralph Lauren and many other brands has customized for their brands. On the other hand, uniforms for the military or for hard industrial work, have been influenced by fashion by getting colors and patterns that are fashionable. So, it’s only natural for me and to be inspired by the fashion and style from 1900 to 1970.

The Art of "Remake"

Remake

When I was a teenager, my mom made me discover thrifting. I was always impressed by how she used old jewelry and made them into new brooches on her dress. She taught me that with creativity anything can be transformed into what you imagine. This philosophy is the core of 88th Company! The more I can remake from vintage items, the best it is! I use military surplus, vintage clothes or any accessories (such as buttons, pins and more) to create a one of a kind art piece! Finally, I also use surplus leather, threads and fabric. This is what I call the "Remake Philosophy of 88th Company"!

Eco-Friendly

Today, we are living through the biggest environmental crisis of our time. I think, it’s our responsibility to try to help in any way we can. First, I only use vintage items (expect t-shirts) and accessories for my designs. Second, all the dyes used are 100% natural such as coffee, turmeric, dirt and oil. Third, I use brown paper and recycled boxes for the packaging. I just try my best to use all the right canvases and tools for an eco friendly art pieces.

Reinforcement

A Family Affair

88th Company won’t be running without the help of my reinforcement division. I have always closely worked with my brothers and mom to make 88th Company a better company and even more creative!

We are family!