The NYC Urban Collection

Welcome to the neighborhood. Our Brooklyn Collection is a love letter to the places we call home. Whether you’re looking for a Carroll Gardens Crewneck or a Red Hook Sweatshirt, we’ve created the ultimate uniform for those who know exactly which stop to get off the F train. This isn't your average tourist gear; it’s an inside joke for the people who actually live here.

As Featured In

City life is a beautiful mess of expensive rent, subway delays, and the best pizza you’ve ever had. We believe your wardrobe should reflect that local expertise. Our collection features premium, garment-dyed pieces like the Boerum Hill Crewneck and the Park Slope Sweatshirt, alongside our Public School collection that celebrates the institutions that make the city run.

Beyond the zip codes, we celebrate the true icons of New York: the street life. Our Pin Button Set by Linus features the real celebrities—the pigeon, the subway rat, and the yellow cab. Whether you’re carrying a Public School Tote Bag to the greenmarket or wearing our NYC Embroidered Tee on a humid July afternoon, you’re wearing a piece of the city’s soul.

  • The Hyper-Local Urbanite

    This is for the parent pushing a stroller through Park Slope, the artist grabbing a coffee in Red Hook, and the public school teacher who needs a Public School Mug for their second cup of caffeine. It’s for people who identify more with their neighborhood than their zip code. If you’ve ever had a strong opinion about a bodega or a specific subway line, this gear was made for you.

  • Street Cred Meets Comfort

    Our customers love this collection because it feels personal. Wearing a Brooklyn NY Embroidered Tee or a Pretzel Embroidered Tee shows you’re part of the inner circle. It’s a way to show neighborhood pride without looking like you’re wearing a souvenir. Plus, our vibrant colors, like the hot pink text on our Carroll Gardens Sweatshirts, ensure your local pride stands out in a sea of New York black.

  • Authenticity as Seen in the Post

    We don't just put names on shirts; we build community. As seen in the New York Post, our designs, especially the By Linus Collection, capture the specific, witty vibe of New York City life. We use high-quality embroidery and soft, durable fabrics that can handle the wear and tear of a daily commute. When you choose Inside Joke, you're supporting a brand that gets the "if you know, you know" nature of city living.

FAQ

Do you have designs for neighborhoods outside of Brooklyn?

We are constantly expanding! While we started with favorites like Boerum Hill and Carroll Gardens, subscribe to keep an eye for more city-inspired drops.

Are the sweatshirts "unisex" or fitted?

Our crewnecks, like the Park Slope Crewneck, are a relaxed, standard fit. They generally fit small, so order up a size.

Tell me more about the "By Linus" items?

These feature hand-drawn illustrations by Linus, capturing the quirky side of NYC. The Hot Dog Embroidered Tee and Rat Pin are fan favorites from this specific artist collaboration.

Can I customize a "Public School" item with a specific school number?

Currently, our Public School Sweatshirt and Public School Hat are sold as shown to celebrate the system as a whole. Send us a note if you'd like to customize with school numbers! hello@insidejokeapparel.com

Is the "Public School" mug dishwasher safe?

Yes! The Public School Mug is built to handle the heavy use of a teacher's lounge or a busy home office.

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