Our Story

FROM THE DIRT.

Anno Domini Apparel was founded from a garage in Hillsboro, Oregon. Our story begins with our first launch in March, 2023 - selling simple graphic tees to friends, family, and pretty much anyone who would buy them. Needless to say, that wasn't our vision.

NAME.

The name "Anno Domini" is a Latin phrase which means "The Year of The Lord." It marks (roughly) around the time when Christ was born. We chose 'Anno Domini' as our name because we wanted to correct the common misconception that the acronym "A.D" stands for "after death." When people say "200 A.D", they often think it means 200 years after the death of Christ. Rather, it means 200 years Anno Domini - meaning 200 years after the birth of Christ. Understanding the meaning of 'A.D' means you can understand dates and periods relative to when the four gospels were written, as well as the letters to the churches.

VESSEL.

I'm Abdias Leon, founder of A.D.A.
From the start, I knew that the world didn't need another clothing brand. The world didn't need another streetwear collection - what it needed was a vessel through which it can express its greatest sentiment: utmost gratitude to The One who saved it, Jesus Christ.

It needed a vessel through which it can express the identity and belief that Christ is glorified in us becoming the best version of ourselves.

HUMAN CONDITION.

Contrary to most Christian brands, we chose to reflect the state of man, and how much God has done for him; how much God has SUFFERED for him.

When most shirts say "Jesus loves you", we say "Hospital for sinners, not a country club for saints."

When most hoodies say "Jesus is King", we say "Recovery - 1 Year Free - In service to Christ."

When most designs say "God is good", we say "Who bled for you like He did?"

The world knows Jesus loves them - but it doesn't know how much. Understanding our selfish, fallen nature - understanding the human condition leads to true appreciation of the cross.

PURPOSE.

Often times, people miss the mark on what it means to be “the best version of yourself.”
How can you train the body, but neglect training your mind and spirit? The mind and spirit need self-control, godliness, patience, kindness, faith, gratitude, and resilience.|

Similarly, how can you train your mind and spirit, but neglect God’s temple? If God blessed you with good health, is not taking care of it the perfect expression of gratitude?

Scripture talks about being crucified and buried with Christ - we hold this symbolic phrase close to heart (eg. Romans 6:6, Galatians 2:20).

Glorify your Maker by becoming the best version of yourself; spiritually, mentally, and physically.

Bury the old you.

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