Chicago mother and son found clothing brand aimed at breaking disability stigma

A mother and son duo from Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood have created a fun and funky clothing brand with a purpose.

Nate Simon launched his clothing company, 21 Pineapples, a few years ago with his mother. The 21 represents the extra chromosome people with Down Syndrome share and the pineapple is a symbol of welcomeness and sweetness.

“I started my own company because I love Hawaiian shirts,” Nate Simon said. “It’s all about love and kindness. I love it, because I love meeting new people. It is my favorite thing to do.”

“Our kids can go to school here in Illinois till they’re 22,” said Holly Simon, Nate’s mother, explained. “When they age out, there’s nothing necessarily in place for them. So, we as parents, have to come up with what’s next. He was noticed on social media for his love for fashion, his drip. So, we thought it was an easy segue.”

And their idea took off.

Holly Simon emphasized “Nate’s Nate. He’s not Down syndrome.”

“Nate Simon is a 23-year-old man who likes to drink beer,” she said. “He loves to eat, loves to make people laugh.”

Nate said they’re hoping to change the world one funky shirt at a time.