Merit brings fashion with a higher purpose to S. University

There's no shame in looking good. Since former University of Michigan basketball player David Merritt launched his Merit clothing line, that sentiment has never been truer. After all, the stylish clothes and accessories he sells help high school students stay in school and reach for their collegiate dreams. Now, the caused-based retailer is brining its goods and goodness to a physical location on S. University. 

 

"I've been so blessed," says Merritt. "Now, it's important to me to create positive ways for young people to promote themselves. Knowing how many kids aren't given the same opportunities, we're trying to expose these kids to the resources that are out there."

 

Merit opened on Oct. 10 and Merritt and his partner Kuhu Saha are looking forward to a grand opening Nov. 13. The 400 square foot storefront underwent four to five weeks of renovations, including considerable work on the walls and flooring. Now, Merit is looking as good as the clothes and accessories they sell. Merritt hopes the clothes will be a good fit for the university market, as well as their personable service. 

 

"With our cause, and who we are as people, our goal is to be a personal brand," Merritt says. "We want to be able to get out in front of people. We think the campus community is going to be able to help us build a strong presence." 

 

A percentage of everything sold at Merit will fund scholarships for high school students who participate in Merritt's four mentorship and training program, FATE, at Detroit's Jalen Rose Leadership Academy.

 

Merit carries customized shirts, hats and accessories, and will soon being to introduce their cut-and-sew styles of their own design, such as pants, hoodies, shirts and more. The store currently employs a staff of two. Merritt plans to open a second location in Detroit in the next 16 to 18 months.