Any Means Necessary

Any Means Necessary is an independent streetwear and lifestyle brand born in Akron, Ohio, co-founded by artist Shawn Coss and entrepreneur Michael Nemitz. Launched with just $200 and a batch of shirts printed in a basement, the brand has grown into a multimillion-dollar movement that blends dark art with raw emotional storytelling. At its core, Any Means Necessary is more than apparel—it's armor for those who find strength in their struggles. Coss’s signature artwork, known for its surreal depictions of mental illness and emotional trauma, is the visual heartbeat of the brand. His illustrations, including the viral Inktober Illness series, appear across tees, hoodies, jerseys, and accessories, each piece designed to resonate with those who feel unseen or misunderstood. The brand’s motto—“Find Comfort in Darkness”—isn’t just a tagline; it’s a lived philosophy. Nemitz, who openly discusses his own experiences with anxiety, and Coss, a former ER nurse turned full-time artist, built the company on the belief that embracing your flaws is a form of power. From its gritty, emotionally charged designs to its community-driven ethos, Any Means Necessary has carved out a space in the streetwear world for those who thrive in the shadows. Available online and through select retailers like Zumiez and Blue Tomato, the brand continues to grow without compromising its message: you are not broken—you are different, and different is powerful.