By Breanne Pittman 

Local boutique owner Mallory Patterson used tragedy as inspiration to create a stylish way to give back to the Ruston community.

After the loss of her best friend unexpectedly in December 2020, Patterson knew she wanted to use her brand, Mallory Patterson Designs, to honor her friend. 

“I wanted to do something to honor him and I knew it had to be Tech-related,” Patterson said. “After lots of brainstorming and praying, the sweaters came to life.”

To give back to the Ruston community, a portion of all sales from these sweaters go towards the Gantt Graham Endowment Scholarship at Louisiana Tech University. 

“A portion of all sales go directly to his scholarship/memorial that is set up through the University Foundation,” Patterson said. 

Since these sweaters were released, many locals, current students and alumni have supported Patterson. These sweaters have been worn to football games, baseball games, and even in senior portraits.

The sweaters were designed in Louisiana Tech colors with various Tech designs.

“My inspiration comes from the things I love: my family, Ruston and the people here,” Patterson said. 

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