BGSU Fashion Student’s Brand Turns Heads as Machine Gun Kelly and Teddy Swims Rock His Designs

A Bowling Green State University (BGSU) student is making waves in the fashion world, as Machine Gun Kelly and Teddy Swims were recently spotted wearing pieces from his rising brand.
Nate Hughes, a fashion merchandising student at BGSU, has been quietly building his own label, MBIA (My Brand Is Ass), designing everything from belts and sweatshirts to statement hats. What started as a college passion project has now caught the attention of some of the biggest names in music.

Machine Gun Kelly, known for his trendsetting style and red carpet appearances, was photographed wearing one of Hughes’s belts while accepting the Fashion Media Awards Style Icon Award, instantly giving the brand national exposure. Shortly after, Teddy Swims was also seen sporting pieces from MBIA, adding to the momentum and buzz around Hughes’s designs.
“I never imagined my designs would reach artists I grew up listening to,” Hughes said. “Seeing them wear my work motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and expanding the brand.”
This moment marks a significant milestone for Hughes, who has already showcased his designs in local runway events and pop-up shows. With celebrity endorsements coming in early, MBIA is poised to become a noteworthy name in contemporary fashion.
Industry insiders note that early celebrity support can be a game-changer for emerging brands, helping designers like Hughes gain recognition, attract collaborations, and reach a broader audience far beyond college campuses.
As Nate Hughes continues to grow his brand, fashion enthusiasts and music fans alike are keeping a close eye on what’s next and it’s clear that this BGSU student is just getting started.

