Ocoee High alumni make fashion statement

Capitalizing on their shared love for fashion and thrifting, two Ocoee High School alumni have partnered to bring a new concept to their beloved city.

Alex Gonzalez and Zale Lugo are the minds behind Off The Rack Market, a clothing and accessories haven created especially for high-schoolers and college-age students.

The monthly market features more than 40 vendors selling everything from jewelry, vintage clothes, streetwear and shoes.

The market launched in July 2024.

“It wasn’t really anything to do with money or anything like that,” Gonzalez said. “It was really just about the community.”

Since then, the market has blossomed and now attracts young entrepreneurs from throughout Central Florida.

“Now, we get 60, 70 vendor applications every time,” Gonzalez said. “It’s grown so much over time.” 

But running a business for the first time also comes with challenges. Gonzalez said the biggest one is learning to adapt on the fly. 

“Last market, we actually had a food truck cancel last-minute, and then I used some of my connections, called up a couple (of food trucks) I knew, and we replaced them right away,” he said. 

Gonzalez said their market is affordable — with $50 vendor fees. Moreover, Off The Rack differentiates itself from others by being unique. 

“It’s an indoor market,” he said. “That’s not something you come upon a lot in the fashion market.” 

Rain or shine, Off The Rack Market is able to operate. 

“Most vendors usually have $5 bins, $10 racks, two-for-$10 racks,” Gonzalez said. “You don’t have to come in with a lot of money to come to our market. Sometimes, even if you don’t buy anything, it’s just a cool experience.”

Off The Rack Market has no expiration date. In fact, the duo hopes to expand to nearby cities in the future and host different events, including fashion shows. 

“We definitely want to expand,” Gonzalez said. “(But) we always want to keep the market here in Ocoee, so that way there’s always a platform for all the high-schoolers or all the college kids in the area or anybody that loves vintage, fashion or just wants to be around a cool vibe, always keeps us here for them.”

Outside of their market, Gonzalez and Lugo work for the city of Ocoee as recreation aides. 

Gonzalez said he enjoys running the business and loves the process from beginning to end — from promoting the market to consistently being active on social media and setting up the day of and seeing everyone show up. 

“Seeing everyone turn to your market and show up, it’s just a really good feeling,” he said.