Originally envisioned in the 1980s, America’s Happy States is a brand dedicated to spreading joy through cheerful, state-themed designs. Each design celebrates the simple idea that happiness is worth sharing.
Developed by renowned artist and late VCUarts Dean Joe Seipel, the brand has been recently revived by his daughter, Chloe Callahan, as a tribute to his creative spirit and legacy and to bring his vision to life for a new generation.
The initial launch features clothing designs for Virginia, Pennsylvania, and California, with additional states rolling out in the coming months. Each design reflects the brand’s signature message: “Smile and say, I’m in a happy state.”
Beyond spreading joy, America’s Happy States is committed to giving back. A portion of proceeds from Virginia sales will benefit VCUarts, supporting the institution where Joe Seipel spent 42 years shaping the future of art education. Sales from all other states will contribute to pancreatic cancer research, a cause close to the family’s heart.
Joe Seipel’s legacy is one of creativity, optimism, and generosity—a legacy Callahan hopes to continue through this project.
“This brand is my way of honoring my dad’s incredible legacy and bringing his creative spirit forward,” says Callahan. “He believed happiness was something worth sharing, and through Happy States, I hope to spread that same joy and optimism to others—just as he always did.”
Shop the collection and learn more at www.happystates.com. Follow along on Instagram at @happy_states_of_america.
