LONG ISLAND CITY — Brooklyn and Manhattan may get most of the hype, but Queens has plenty of hometown pride to go around.
More businesses and crafts people are capitalizing on the borough's name, producing clothing, jewelry, art and other accessories inspired by Queens and its neighborhoods. There's even an entire store in Long Island City devoted to locally-made goods.
For one, there's the Astoria-based Unified Queens, a newly launched t-shirt company whose designs incorporate local landmarks like the Unisphere or the old diving pool in Astoria Park.
"I was just kind of inspired by the history of the borough, [and] unique things that don’t get much attention," said co-founder Robert Duffy, who will be peddling the shirts at a craft fair at Q.E.D. next week. "Brooklyn definitely has enough t-shirts designed after it."
Here's a list of five Queens-branded goodies for those looking to wear their home on their sleeves.
► This World's Fair "I Rode the Monorail" T-Shirt
Price: $30
Even if you weren't alive for the World's Fair in 1964, you can pretend you were with this t-shirt from Unified Queens.
► These Queens Pencils
Lockwood, on 33rd Street and Broadway in Astoria, offers plenty of Queens swag — even down to school supplies.
► Snarky Astoria Mug
Price: $16
Is there a better way to drink your coffee in the morning? This mug (from Inside Astoria, 28-07 Ditmars Blvd.) says it all.
► An "I Represent Queens" Shirt For Your Kid (Or Your Dog)
Price: $25
Astoria boutique The Brass Owl, at 36-19 Ditmars Blvd., carries plenty of Queens-inspired gear — including these T-shirts, available for men, women, toddlers (or pooches) as well as baby onesies.
► Queens' Finest Hats
Price: $25
This barber shop at 77-20 Queens Blvd. in Elmhurst also sells borough-based apparel, like these hats.
