Our Story
artists. makers. family.
Rooted in the traditional techniques of fiber dye with eyes toward a modern world, brightlytwisted offers a vibrant collection of aesthetic self- expression. From contemporary clothing to accessories to homewares, our dyed-by-hand creations are innovative & luxurious while functional & down-to-earth.
The brightlytwisted journey began as the earnestly unassuming creative pursuit
of a Montessori teacher with an innate talent for color and composition. Self- taught in the art of hand-dyeing, founder Greg Stemas spent nine years operating brightlytwisted out of his own home before teaming up with fellow educator and artist, Tammy Bourque, in 2006.
brightlytwisted gained momentum throughout the art fair circuit in the
early 2000’s as higher quality, trend- conscious garments with more varied color combinations were introduced. The colorfully enchanting tie-dye tent and the enthusiasm of the artists at work enticed those who visited each summer as the young business rapidly grew in popularity across metro Detroit, and beyond. Their unique approach to melding art and industry, function and form, creativity and practical application, continues to be a novel concept in a world of “fast fashion”: one-of-a-kind, wearable works of art made by hand with purpose and passion.
With the induction of the now signature brightyltwisted pashmina, the business grew beyond the seasonal art fair circuit and added a wholesale line. With accounts across the country including past collaborations with Nordstrom, Intermix, Free People, and many others, brightlytwisted is a nationally recognized name in fashion and retail.
Today, brightlytwisted operates out of
a fully functioning production center and storefront in Detroit’s historic Corktown neighborhood. Employing local artists and makers at livable wages, brightlytwisted is committed to growing and evolving in their business practices as well as their creative process. With Tammy and Greg’s daughter Alex joining the leadership team, the brand balances itself between intimate family business and an endlessly evolving community collaboration. Their ties and connection to the city in which they work is deeply rooted in their lifestyle and engagement with the surrounding businesses, organizations and cultural institutions.
