A few years ago as Deon Gibson was strolling through Macy's, he noticed something:

"Everything had a skull and the snakes, like the Ed Hardy and Affliction things," said Gibson, 33, of Tampa. "I wanted to do something that was a bit different."

So in May 2007, Gibson founded Obscurity to Greatness, a line of trendy clothing with a message. The name references the Old Testament's David, who started out as a shepherd boy and became the king of Israel.

"Christians are my target market, but I call myself an inspirational clothing line," said Gibson, who attends Tampa's Without Walls International Church. "Stores don't have a Christian section of clothes." The line's motto is "Inspirational fashions for inspired people."

The clothing is available online and at Tampa Christian Supply at 2908 W Hillsborough Ave. It currently features women's T-shirts, tank tops, jewelry and sunglasses. On Tuesday, men's T-shirts and hats will be added. Coats and denim will debut next year.

Gibson said the most popular item is the ladies' black and gold Beautiful... Child of the King tee ($18.50) shown above. He estimates they've sold 300 or 400 of them over the past few months. Furthermore, the Gospel Diva tee ($18.50), at left, would add a splash of color to any wardrobe. Likewise for the Ultimate Sacrifice tank ($19.50), at right.

Gibson, who designs most of the clothes, once worked for a similar clothing company that targeted older adults. With his line, he aims to reach a younger, more mainstream clientele.

Said Gibson: "Our goal is to interject messages into the urban fashion industry."

Amen to that!

Deal Diva Dalia

Photos: Courtesy of Obscurity to Greatness