Screen Shot: Asprovski
Website: Asprovski.com
City Based: Vancouver, Canada
Instagram: @Asprovski.co
What inspired the brand name?
The brand name is simply my surname. Our pieces are a culmination of my experiences, and fulfill needs I see within the market. By using my surname, it helps keep me accountable as I can't be putting my families name on products that aren't perfect.
At what moment did you realize you wanted to start a brand?
I pondered the idea for years as I had realized that the product quality, collection imagery, and overall brand aesthetic I was looking for wasn't offered within the market. Throughout my years of collecting high end pieces and working at a high end retailer I felt that I had really honed in on exactly what I was looking for. I was unhappy with the quality and the lack of attention to detail being offered, and decided that I could offer my own unique take on things.
What helps you get over creative blocks?
I draw inspiration from everywhere, therefore I'm usually able to overcome creative blocks by simply leaving something alone for a little bit and revisiting it once I feel ready. I hate rushing my creative process as I find that the end product never satisfies me, which requires me to start the process all over again. Counter-intuitive, isn't it?
What is the biggest mistake you have made?
I won't go into details, but having tunnel vision when designing. Luckily it's long gone.
What is the biggest success you have had?
The brand's first (and only) pop-up at CNTRBND Vancouver in February 2020 was extremely successful. It also happened right before the COVID-19 pandemic, so the timing couldn't have been better. It helped get the product into the hands of potential clients, and allowed us to showcase the direction the Asprovski brand was going in.
A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION PEOPLE MAY FIND WEIRD?
Oddly, I find myself often getting inspired by the "corporate world." While this realm might lack creativity and soul, I find the ultra-professional aesthetic with it's clean, inoffensive, and minimalist branding often gives me ideas and new concepts to explore.
Favorite color to use?
While some may claim that it's a shade, not a color, black is my Favorite color to use. Black is so universal, allowing it to be paired with anything and everything. With Asprovski I'm creating luxury essentials that individuals can wear for years to come so I'm trying to create pieces that can be adopted to a variety of wardrobes. Nonetheless, I'm starting to incorporate colors and present my audience with new washes and color palettes.
ARE THERE ANY RETAIL SHOPS YOU WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU BRAND IN?
Currently we're stocked at CNTRBND Vancouver, and I'd love to see the brand expand to CNTRBND Toronto, CNTRBND Montreal, and SSENSE within the next little while. A Canadian takeover of sorts.
ANOTHER BRAND THAT INSPIRES YOU AND WHY?
There's easily 10-15 brands that inspire me and push me to do more for my clientele. If I had to chose two, I'd have to give a nod to Rick Owens and Haider Ackermann, as I believe both brands embody similar values.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AND THE BRAND IN 1 YEAR AND 5 YEARS?
Within the next year I can see the brand continuing to push the envelope and developing a clear, identifiable, "core" product line which will be complimented by special projects and potentially collaborations. Within the next five years I'd love to see the brand expand and start exploring footwear, and possibly even furniture. At this point I'd like to continue researching, developing, and perfecting this craft in order to allow the brand to continually impress its clientele each season. I'm excited to see the brand solidify the concepts and ideas we've begun exploring, and subsequently develop a distinct identity within the market.
IN 5 WORDS OR LESS DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?
High quality luxury essentials.