Designed by Rusty: A Little Bit Bold, A Little Bit Southern, 100% You

Hi, I’m Rusty — designer, dreamer, and usually the loudest shirt in the room (with one of our ball caps on, of course).

If you knew me from my days owning The Green Monkey in downtown Raleigh, with my husband, Drew,  you already know the heart behind my work: creating a space where people feel welcome, seen, and celebrated. While The Green Monkey has closed, that spirit didn’t go away — I carried it with me into this new chapter.

Designed by Rusty is my way of putting joy, pride, and a little glitter into the world — one bold product at a time. Whether you’re queer, southern, an ally, or just here for the sass, you’re welcome here.

I design merch that feels like us — not watered-down or mass-produced, but real. Southern, queer, loud when we want to be, soft when we need to be, and always unapologetically authentic.

From pop-up booths at Pride to late-night printing marathons in my living room, every piece is a labor of love — designed and made right here in Raleigh.

I believe in community over competition, coloring outside the lines, and saying “y’all” like we mean it.

Thanks for stopping by. If something here makes you smile or feel seen, say hi — I’d love to hear from you.