Talkin' Fresh: Nat of Capsule XXX
Written by Greg Harris
In our recent fashion interview series, "Talkin' Fresh" we have showcased one of the brightest minds in the fashion industry, Evan Wilkerman. The owner of Infect Co., who's making a painting a polarinzg picturevwith his imagery in his threads and an abstract perspective he provides for his foundation. As we find more respective creatives who are emerging into the spotlight, we seen another brand who's breaking borders as well.
Formerly known as Royal Konnection, a local Houston brand who made it's splash into the city's scene with its successful collections in the past, has rebranded into Capsule XXX, a company that shines a spotlight on various topics of our reality. This change came at a great time, coming off the heels of summer here we roll into the budding fashion of this upcoming fall.
We recently to the owner, Nat about the brand's origins, being a Texas based brand, what's her goals for Capsule XXX, and more.
Read below
How’s Your Modern Life?
Calm, surprisingly, I thought once I started back production of this line that I would be more consumed with activities. With graduation out of the way, I’ve been planning uninterrupted for awhile now on what I wanted the first Capsule to be and how I could upgrade myself from Royal Konnection, so everything flew smoothly. I also don’t take for granted that unlike most I work from home. I was blessed enough to get a job right out of college in my field that still allows me time to design and research. And some may say they would be further than me with their apparel if that perk was available to them, but I move with no rush now. Everything is planned and executed precisely.
What are three things you have to do when you first wake up?
- Check Social Media
- Cartoons
- Smoke
For those who aren’t familiar, how can you explain the vibes of Houston?
Houston initially has a positive vibe but if you get lost in the hype or focus too much on what’s around you those vibes can turn quickly. I keep myself away from goofies, I’ve seen some things go bad for others soI try to learn from their lessons.
There was a moment where I was over Houston because I felt like I was seeing the same thing but I realized I was on the wrong wave.
How much pride do you take with being from Houston?
Well, I’m actually not from Houston but Dallas. I came to Houston for college and while here I started my original clothing line Royal Konnection. Once I started to see success, I decided to give the city more of my time after graduation.
My love for the city solidified after Hurricane Harvey. You can still see the damage all throughout Houston and other counties that were affected but watching people like DJ Mr.Rogers and Trae really put some things in perspective. Those are highly respected men at their crafts yet them, along with others, are still working on the city and that’s a true testimony to Houston’s character. Watching you all come together like that was inspiring.
Even though I’m not from Houston I’ve grown to love it just as much as Dallas, there’s a different vibe but just as equally beneficial to me as a person and designer.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a clothing line based in Houston?
Ha, well one Houston is very saturated with fashion designers,clothing lines, etc but I enjoy seeing the different styles and what we are able to come up with. It’s nice to see positive young adults coming together to boost each other from music to fashion. There’s more love than hate being spread and I enjoy being apart of that.
Where did the concept of Capsule XXX come from?
I didn’t want to be trapped creatively, like I felt with Royal Konnection, so I came up with Capsule XXX to allow me to expand on different topics in society, my personal life, and other influences around me through streetwear. When I think of the word capsule, I think small but dynamic.
XXX is merely a numbering system for each capsule released. 001 for instance refers to RECOVERY, the first collection of Capsule XXX.
With changing the direction of the brand from Royal Konnection to Capsule XXX, what were some things you felt like you needed to fine tune with it?
I wanted to pay way more attention to detail and NOT RUSH. Rushing was a big thing for me with Royal Konnection, comparing my design and thought process for Capsule XXX compared to RK, I have slowed down tremendously. I also wanted to include limited cut & sew pieces that ran parallel to the current capsules theme.
What are some plans with Capsule XXX for 2017 and 2018?
Every capsule I drop has a concept video, and so far I was blessed enough to work with a great team and we created a suspenseful short clip.
Moving forward I would like to keep delivery a variety of visuals from standard videos to animation clips. I feel like that’s what sets me apart from others so far. Also I do not want Capsule XXX to be seen as a local brand, I want to touch any and everywhere. As I said before, every capsule has a meaning and I aim to be relatable to all if not most.
With Royal Konnection, I was able to see success with putting some of my cut and sew pieces on celebrities but I want to shift my focus towards local premium store installments for Capsule XXX.
What are three things you want to accomplish for Capsule XXX before the year is over with?
- Reach a variety of media outlets
- Expand brand awareness
- Increase personal connection between designer and brand
In three words, how can you describe Capsule XXX?
Complete Creative Control
When it’s all said and done, how do you want to be remembered?
As a socially conscious designer.
Follow Capsule XXX brand here