Gold Coast, located at 501 N Clark Street in Chicago, was a trailblazing leather bar that opened on March 15, 1960 and served its community until it closed on February 10, 1988 . As one of the nation’s earliest leather bars, it became legendary for its strict dress code—boots, denim, leather—and its infamous basement, “The Pit.” Founded by Chuck Renslow and Dom Orejudos, the bar didn’t just sell drinks—it fostered a thriving leather district and spun off the Mr. Gold Coast contest, which evolved into the International Mr. Leather pageant.
Gold Coast wasn’t just a bar—it was a catalyst for community, art, and sexual liberation. From erotic murals by “Etienne” to late-night camaraderie in its back rooms, it stood as a bold declaration of queer visibility in a time of repression.
I use Bella + Canvas 3001 Unisex tees for all of my designs. They are a soft and light cotton. If you love another brand, please let me know and I can see if I can source it. I can also do my designs on tanks, long sleeve tees, sweatshirts, hoodies and posters. Just reach out with any custom requests and I'll gladly help you out. I do like large prints, but if you want the design scaled down, please contact me before placing an order and I can send you some mock ups.
Bella + Canvas 3001 UNISEX JERSEY SHORT SLEEVE TEE
Sizes:
Small: 18" chest/28" body length
Medium: 20" chest/29" body length
Large: 22" chest/30" body length
XL: 24" chest/31" body length
2XL: 26" chest/32" body length
3XL: 28" chest/33" body length.
Standard colors: 100% Airlume combed and ringspun cotton Fabric blends: Ash and Heather Prism colors - 99% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, 1% polyester;
