ABOUT US
WHO WE ARE
Founded in Washington, D.C., Status Apparel DC is a 100% Black-owned lifestyle brand that combines premium quality, style, and meaningful design. Relaunched in 2015, Status Apparel DC has grown beyond the nation’s capital to reach supporters worldwide. Status is more than a brand—it’s a way of life, reflecting values of resilience, positivity, and community.
Our journey began on August 10, 2012, under the original name and predecessor “Got Status?” clothing. What started as a personal project to create unique designs evolved into a brand with a powerful message, aiming to inspire and uplift. Today, Status Apparel DC continues to provide premium goods that offer both style and comfort for every day and every season, with each piece embodying our commitment to quality and purpose.​
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HAVE STATUS?
To have status is to be a trendsetter, you lead the way, you set what's cool, you determine what the people live by. Someone that has status is someone who is a positive individual that's motivated, driven, innovative and loyal to friends and family. It's a way of life and if someone embodies these traits they have "status".
The use of 'Status' in this way began among friends at Benjamin Banneker High School in 2010. Originally, the word was used to describe anything good (e.g., 'That’s the status'). Over the years, its meaning and use have expanded. Status has evolved from simple slang shared among friends to something much larger, yet the original essence that redefined it still remains.​​​​
WHO/WHAT IS STATUS GANG?
Status Gang is a community of innovators and friends—a collective of people who embody the traits that define what Status is. If you have Status, you’re part of this group. You’re part of the Status Gang.
WHAT IS PERFECT SEASON?
Perfect Season represents perfecting your craft, never settling, striving for greatness, and elevating everything you do.
For Status Apparel DC, this means delivering new, innovative designs and enhanced quality with every release. Our collections aim to embody what Perfect Season is all about.
MEET THE OWNER, GABRIEL MASSALLEY
Gabriel Massalley is the founder of Status Apparel DC, a DC-based Black-owned brand celebrated for its premium quality and culturally resonant designs that emphasize positivity and community. A native Washingtonian, Gabriel has been an artist and designer from a young age, crafting cartoons and graphics that reflect his lifelong creativity and commitment to uplifting messaging. He studied architecture at Temple University, where he began creating the initial designs for Status Apparel DC. Originally designing for himself and friends, Gabriel quickly realized there was a demand for his work and began selling under the name “Got Status? Clothing.”
After graduating in 2015 and returning to DC, he reimagined the brand as Status Apparel DC, establishing it as a community-centered apparel line that combines high-quality craftsmanship with empowering, positive messages. Gabriel’s background as an architectural designer continues to influence his work, blending precision with the creativity of streetwear. Today, Status Apparel DC stands as a symbol of culture, positivity, and community, connecting people through unique story-driven apparel that inspires and uplifts.
“When I first started making shirts, I focused on creating designs and testing ideas that I genuinely liked to wear. As I wore them around campus and shared photos on social media, I noticed that people wanted to support and represent what we had going on. It became a way for me to be creative outside of my everyday course load. That original purpose—creating high-quality designs I love—has stayed with me in everything I’ve made since. My goal is to create comfortable, durable, quality clothing that spans ages and embodies good design. I’m incredibly grateful that these concepts continue to resonate with people.
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Present day, I see Status as Influence. Positive influence. I want to affect change positively in the city that I grew up in and in the world. With so many obstacles and negatives in the world our brand aims to provide daily motivation and positivity.”
THE STATUS EXPERIENCE
FAST
DELIVERY
After placing an order with Status Apparel DC, you can rest assured that your item will be delivered promptly. Most orders from our website are shipped next day.
DISCOUNTS
& MORE
Status Apparel DC is all about the people. Be sure to check our website for the latest releases and discounts, you won't want to miss out on any chances to add one of our pieces to your wardrobe.
Get started earning discounts by joining our Status Appreciation Rewards Program, sign up here.
STYLE
ALWAYS
The perfect combination of comfort and style for your everyday routines. Bringing a touch of flair to your wardrobe is easy with our custom-made cut and sew pieces. Shop our classics and new releases today!
In Loving Memory of Ajibril Blake
Long Live Ajibril Blake! A beloved Brand Ambassador and core part of Status Apparel DC. Your spirit continues to inspire us, and you will always be part of our legacy. We love you forever, Family. Rest in Power.