Pumps & Pleats: Dyed in the wool Brooklyn threads

Story and photos by Michèle De Meglio

Graphic T-shirts are a sure bet for hot summer months. But who really wants “Old Navy” plastered across their chest?

Instead, how about a tee with a cool print designed by Brooklynites? Sounds good!

Take a trip to Brooklyn Industries in Carroll Gardens for a colorful array of shirts — many with borough-themed prints.

A top seller is a heather gray tee with “Brooklyn” written in block letters. The o’s are replaced with an image of the Brooklyn Bridge.

There’s also a black shirt featuring cherry red letters in the classic “I heart NY” style. But in this case, Brooklyn stands in for New York City and the heart is replaced with a water tower.

You can always go for a message tee advertising “Made in Brooklyn.” Talk about borough pride!

Politically minded shoppers may get a kick out of a white tee depicting Sarah Palin placing a crown on the head of Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who is wearing a “Mrs. America” sash. They’re getting along! On cotton, anyway.

Brooklyn Industries isn’t all about T-shirts. The brand also offers casual apparel for men and women and industrial-style bags and accessories.

During this reporter’s Sunday visit, the Carroll Gardens shop was in the midst of a fab sale.

A table loaded with beanies, tights and cosmetic cases promised wallets for $10 or less in shades of eggplant, pitch black, chocolate and even a multicolored retro print. Good deal if you’re in the mood for a cute and trendy piece and can’t swing for pricey “investment” leather goods.

There’s also a metal bin overflowing with red, white and blue Havaianas flip-flops decked out with crazy peacock motifs and images of elephants over paisley prints.

At the store’s entrance is a wall lined from floor to ceiling with handbags in funky prints, baby blue messengers and orange backpacks.

My favorite was the royal blue tote with bright white trim for $58. Dubbed the Lancer Bag, it has a nautical vibe perfect for a speedboat adventure or just an easy weekend strolling on the Coney Island boardwalk. Come fall, wear this baby to the office or school for a colorful pick-me-up on drab rainy days.

Now that’s versatile!

Brooklyn Industries is located at 100 Smith Street. For hours, call 718.596.3986 or visit www.brooklynindustries.com.

Michèle De Meglio is a native Brooklynite addicted to all things chic. Check out Pumps & Pleats each week for more adventures as she scours the borough for fab duds and accessories.