From the Danger Shack to Joshua Tree: The Inspiring Journey of Totally Blown

The story of Totally Blown clothing begins in an unexpected place: a remote off-grid cabin in Iowa known as the Danger Shack. What started as a simple winter survival challenge turned into a creative breakthrough that would shape a unique brand. This is the tale of how a mouse, a shotgun, and a rugged landscape inspired a clothing line that blends authentic Americana style with a powerful message.

The Cold Winter That Sparked Creativity

Living off-grid through a harsh Iowa winter is no easy feat. The founder of Totally Blown was isolated in the Danger Shack, relying on minimal resources and facing the challenges of nature head-on. During this time, a mouse found its way into his clothes and started making a nest. One of his favorite t-shirts ended up with random holes chewed through the fabric.

Instead of frustration, this discovery sparked curiosity. The founder, Cody, was fascinated by the organic pattern of the holes and the texture they created. This accidental design element felt raw and authentic, unlike anything he had seen in mainstream fashion. It was the beginning of an idea that would soon take shape.

Experimenting with Techniques and Finding the Perfect Look

Cody began experimenting with different ways to replicate the unique look of the mouse-chewed shirt. He tried various dying methods and fabric treatments but nothing captured the right feel. The process was slow and filled with trial and error.

Then one day, inspiration struck in a surprising way. Cody took his brother’s old single-shot 12-gauge shotgun out behind the Danger Shack and started blasting holes into his clothes. The result was exactly what he had been searching for: an authentic, distressed look that felt alive and full of character.

This hands-on approach to creating clothing was unlike anything else on the market. It combined the ruggedness of the outdoors with a rebellious spirit. The name Totally Blown came naturally, reflecting both the physical process of blasting holes and the emotional impact of the brand’s message.

Building a Brand with a Purpose

Totally Blown was more than just a clothing line. Cody envisioned it as a platform to raise awareness and funds to end gun violence. The brand’s identity was deeply tied to the shotgun-distressed aesthetic, but also carried a message of change and hope.

The combination of authentic craftsmanship and social purpose gave Totally Blown a unique place in the fashion world. It wasn’t about mass production or trends; it was about telling a story through every ripped and blasted piece of clothing.

The Joshua Tree Connection

Later that year, Cody traveled to California to visit friends. During his trip, he visited Joshua Tree for the first time. The stark beauty of the desert landscape and the creative energy of the area resonated with him deeply. He knew he had found the perfect home for Totally Blown.

Joshua Tree became the brand’s base, a place where the spirit of Americana and the ruggedness of the outdoors come together. Over the next ten years, Totally Blown continued to grow, staying true to its roots while expanding its reach.

What Makes Totally Blown Clothing Stand Out

• Authentic Distressing

Each piece is uniquely blasted with a shotgun, creating patterns that no machine can replicate.

• Handcrafted Quality

The clothing is made with care, emphasizing durability and comfort alongside style.

• Strong Message

The brand supports efforts to end gun violence, making every purchase meaningful.

• Connection to Nature

Inspired by the wilderness of Iowa and the desert of Joshua Tree, the designs reflect a deep respect for the environment.

• Timeless Americana Style

The look is rugged, vintage-inspired, and perfect for those who appreciate genuine craftsmanship.

The Journey from a Small Cabin to a Recognized Brand

The path from the Danger Shack to Joshua Tree was not straightforward. It involved patience, creativity, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. Cody’s story shows how inspiration can come from the smallest moments—a mouse chewing a shirt, a cold winter night, a shotgun blast in the snow.

Totally Blown’s success is a reminder that authenticity resonates. People connect with stories that feel real and products that carry meaning beyond their surface. The brand’s commitment to quality and purpose has helped it build a loyal following over the years.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Totally Blown

As Totally Blown moves forward, it continues to focus on what made it special from the start. The brand plans to:

• Expand its product line while maintaining handcrafted techniques

• Increase support for gun violence prevention initiatives

• Collaborate with artists and makers who share its values

• Keep the spirit of the Danger Shack alive in every new design

  
  

For fans of Americana style and meaningful fashion, Totally Blown offers something rare: clothing that tells a story and stands for something as real as life itself.