The best thing about independent businesses is the love and attention they give to each product. For instance, while larger corporations push the trend of fast fashion, smaller businesses are able to offer unique, handmade items. Patch & Denim, based in North Jersey, is one such small business. They transform denim jackets into wearable pieces of art.
Specifically, Patch & Denim Owner Nicole Moss adds custom quilted stars to the back of denim jackets. Her mission is to breath new life into old jean jackets, and also inspire others to wear them for the first time. While the Star Denim Jacket is the signature piece of Patch & Denim, Moss also sells market bags and pillows. These other items are also adorned with the same colorful, quilted stars as the jackets.
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Designing the Perfect Star
Customers looking to support Nicole can either shop her collection online or contact her for a custom order. These custom designs are a highly collaborative process. Nicole works with each client to create a star that incorporates any preferred color palate or pattern.
In fact, one of Nicole’s most memorable custom items was an all white star for her best friend’s wedding. “I had 18 of her friends pick a piece of fabric to contribute to the star, making it super special and something she’ll have for the rest of her life. A piece she will have to remind her of her wedding day every time she wears it.”
“My products are handmade and one-of-a-kind,” Nicole adds. “They’re unique and definitely a conversation starter!”
About Patch & Denim
Nicole is a recent Garden State transplant. She moved to New Jersey with her husband (a native New Jerseyan) and son in 2022. “We’ve really enjoyed living here and seeing all that it has to offer!” she says.
After having her first child in 2021, Moss was searching for a creative outlet. She stumbled upon an Instagram page teaching quilting. Though she is an artist with experience in photography, cross-stitch, painting, and jewelry making, quilting is something new. After designing her first few quilts, she had the idea to put a quilted star on a jacket. Shortly after, Patch & Denim was born.
“I love owning my own business,” Nicole says. “It’s a way to connect with my community and fellow art lovers.”
In addition to her online store, Nicole showcases her designs at local markets and fairs in the Bergen County area.
As for the future of Patch & Denim, Nicole has big dreams. “I hope one day Patch & Denim will catch on like wildfire. That people will need a star denim jacket- they can’t live without one!”
Patch & Denim is based in North Jersey and ships orders via their website. Look for them online to learn more.
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All Photos: © Nicole Moss / Patch & Denim
