A La Porte County Life in the Spotlight: Will Burkhart
- By: Claire Kenney
- Last Updated: March 25, 2026
When 19-year old Will Burkhart started BURK, a handmade clothing line, he found a lot of inspiration for the brand in his family ties and lineage.
“The brand name BURK originated from my last name Burkhart and also is the nickname of my grandpa,” said Burkhart. “My grandpa, along with the last name, has always been known for many qualities that I try to emulate in a brand that is respected for its quality.”
However, the family inspiration doesn’t just stop at the name of the business.
“My cousin Maverick – Mav – helps me with the business, so it’s all the more fitting that we incorporate a family member into the business,” Burkhart said.
Mav and Burdkhardt are just a couple of years apart and grew up together.
“We were always close as kids,” said Burkhart. “It’s been great to have his help with BURK.”
Burkhart is currently enrolled at the School of the Art Institute Chicago (SAIC), studying fashion and design as part of a certificate program. Originally from the Region, both being in Chicago and his home roots have helped to further his career.
“About a month ago, I had an opportunity to meet with one of Vera Wang’s assistant in Chicago,” Burkhart said. “We discussed paths I could take as a designer and the various options in the industry. It was really helpful to get her perspective and hear about how things work from someone experienced; it gave me and better understanding of what to focus on and explore moving forward with BURK.“
In a way, entrepreneurship runs in Burkhart’s blood. His mom runs her own local business that’s based in the beauty industry. While somewhat indirect, this is yet another family-related tie to Burkhart’s overall business strategy and inspiration.
“I’ve learned a lot watching my mom over the years grow her business. She is one of my biggest role models,” said Burkhart.
Each of Burkhart’s pieces are unique. There is no article of clothing under his brand that is not independently made and designed. Nothing is replicated. Appropriately, Burkhart’s company tagline is “Artistic one-of-one creations.”
“Whenever we make something, we try to put a unique design to it,” said Burkhart. “Mav and I think carefully about how each garment is constructed and the overall feel and quality, so every piece feels special.”
BURK is an e-commerce retailer. As a whole, Burkhart leans on a design vision that’s based in big city fashion but caters to that small town bespoke feel.
“I love many fashion eras, so that’s always going to impact my creativity when designing,” he said. “The customization of each piece is, in a way, inspired by the neighborhood feel of the Region. So much can be easily individualized in that type of an environment.”
In addition to fashion and design, Burkhart likes to fish, play soccer, and enjoy the local nature in and surrounding the Region.
“I love going on hikes in the Dunes and going to the beach,” Burkhart said.
Burkhart will continue to grow his company and design one-of-a-kind clothes as he works on completing his certificate from SAIC. You can follow BURK on Instagram at burk.us or on TikTok @2burk. He is currently working on creating a company Facebook page.