Downey Memes tries to capitalize on popularity with apparel line

Deborah Debussy poses in a Downey Memes hoodie. Photo by Eric Pierce

DOWNEY — Downey Memes, the Instagram-based parody site that pokes fun at Downey’s fondness of taking itself too seriously, has announced a new line of merch.

The clothing line includes hoodies, t-shirts and tank tops, according to an announcement posted online.

One graphic tee features a photo of The Gay Dog, the long-closed hot dog restaurant popular in Downey during the 1960s.

Another design pays homage to Sambi, the Japanese restaurant that was arguably Downey’s fanciest destination before it closed in 2010.

Downey Memes has collected more than 20,000 followers on Instagram over the past year, posting memes specifically targeting the Downey community. Trader Joe’s is a frequent target of its jokes for its reluctance to open a Downey location.