Surf Shacks 082

Paul Takahashi
Santa Monica, CA

Matt Titone

Paul Takahashi (aka Paul T) is just a stylish guy, plain and simple. Whether he’s at a house party, an art opening, show, or just out in the lineup when the waves are on, Paul is always there with a smile on his face. An Angeleno born and raised, and streetwear legend, he’s got a knack for what’s cool—and what’s real. For such an eclectic and stylish dude, his apartment in Santa Monica is very humble and minimal. The closets are bursting with hoarded-clothing and a massive sneaker collection, there are turntables in the kitchen, a ton of vinyl, a computer, and that’s pretty much it.

Matt Titone
Matt Titone
Matt Titone

Where are you from?

I’ve lived in Los Angeles all my life. The first half in Hollywood, the second half in Santa Monica.

What do you do for a living?

I’ve been in men’s apparel for a long time. I guess I’m a brand consultant and design director.

Describe your career path—how did you start Sarcastic Clothing and also end up working for such iconic brands like Stüssy and Undefeated?

I was just around when the 1990s street fashion thing was developing. I really got into clothes and how they were constructed, so I eventually wanted to make my own label. I started to create a name for myself, so I searched for an investor, and then it happened. During the first wave of the market flood I had to put my brand on pause. I needed work, so friends gave me jobs. I’m so grateful for their support.

You seem to dabble in a lot of different creative endeavors. Tell me about your path with music and as a DJ.

I have been DJing on and off since I was very young. It’s just something that was always there and has ties with whatever I do.

Matt Titone
Matt Titone
Matt Titone

When and how did you first get into surfing?

I’ve always had a fascination with surfing, especially growing up in the 1970s in LA. My oldest brother did
it, but my parents would never buy something that expensive for us. Also, the fact that we lived so far from the beach was an issue. When I finally could afford it and had wheels, I tried, but it was still too far. I was at a stage in my life where I wanted change. I thought, “Why not try living at the beach and really give surfing a go?” That was like 20 years ago and I haven’t stopped.

Where are your go-to places to surf and why?

I like to stay as close as possible and try to make the best call—depending on the conditions—anywhere between Manhattan Beach and Malibu.

How did Attacca Surfboards and Fahrenheit Celsius Wetsuits come about?

Well kinda like how I got into clothing. I just wanted to design my own stuff—with my partner of course.

What are your favorite parts about LA and the area where you live?

I love everything about LA, but for me it’s really the pace. It’s pretty mellow and there are endless things to do here. I’m in Santa Monica and love to be by the ocean, but I do miss the variety of food in Hollywood.

Matt Titone

Discover more creative surfers’ homes in our books; Surf Shacks® Vol. 1, and Vol. 2 out now!

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Matt Titone

A goofy-footed graphic designer who hails from the first state, Delaware. After attending Flagler College in St. Augustine, FL then graduating from SCAD in Savannah, GA with a BFA in Graphic Design and Illustration, Matt moved to NYC and found work as a freelance designer and art director. In 2006 he moved west to Venice, CA where he co-founded ITAL/C Studio and now resides a bit further north in Oxnard.

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