Durham-born Gabe Eng-Goetz founded the apparel and lifestyle brand, Runaway, to promote the idea of “running from convention”. Gabe received his MFA from Syracuse University, and channels his fine art background into designing apparel that embodies the innovative, “New Carolina” identity. What started as a one-man operation, designing t-shirts out of his garage for friends, developed into an online store in 2011. Gabe’s original designs are now printed on t-shirts, shorts, jackets, beer cozies, and more. In 2014, Justin Laidlaw, another Durham native, unexpectedly assumed the role of communications and media director after receiving a call to model for Runaway. The two have since launched a flagship store in downtown Durham, fostering the growth of the city’s creative community through events and collaborations with local artists. I met Gabe and Justin at their store on West Main street to discuss inspiration, community, authenticity, and what it takes to run a small, creative enterprise.
Interview by me for FORM FW17
Photos by Joseph Kim
Full Interview:
https://issuu.com/dukefashion/docs/fw2017_finalfinal/110