Smells Like Crime, Co.

Smells Like Crime, Co. is a Pennsylvania LLC, established in 2020 by co-owners Kinley and Skye Lingenfelter. Our mission is to sustainably create unique and unorthodox clothing for adults of shapes, sizes, identities, and backgrounds. The idea that "adult" or "professional" clothing should be plain and understated limits self-expression and resists the very idea of diversity. This idea is not based on any quantifiable research, but instead on traditions and habits that extend from a time when women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ communities did not have the ability to freely express or assert themselves socially or professionally, particularly in relationships, the workplace, or government. In the last century equality has been codified into law, but even the law cannot overcome generations of white, straight, male-centric workplace traditions and preferences. We believe the idea that individuals should not dress boldly or expressively if they want to be considered "professional" simply caters to and reinforces the idea that any sex, identity, or ethnic deviation from the "traditional" workplace makes one less competent, valuable, or successful. Why shouldn't someone be able to represent who they are at work? Who exactly does it threaten? The tradition surrounding workplace attire is antiquated and it does not reflect modern ideas or the preferences of up-and-coming Millennial and Gen Z adult professional consumers. To remedy the lack of unique adult clothing available on the market, Smells Like Crime designs stand-out garments appropriate for wear in a variety of settings, including traditionally professional settings like interviews, the office, or other business meetings and occasions, or more social settings like outings, dates, or other formal events. We believe that adults should have the option to dress boldly and expressively without sacrificing their status as a professional, and that's why we're here.