Screen Shot: Sovereign
Website: Sovereignexhibit.com
City Based: Houston,TX
Instagram: @Sovereignexhibit
What inspired the brand name?
The brand name came from a good friend of mine named Corey back in 2016/2017. It wasn’t until 2020 that it actually became a thing though. The word "sovereign" means power and authority, which I believe are key aspects in life. The word pops up a lot in the bible, which is where Corey got it from I believe.
At what moment did you realize you wanted to start a brand?
I wanted to start a clothing brand around 2016 just because of the love and interest I have for clothing. I know I have an eye for pieces and designs, so I wanted to share that with the world. 2020 came around and I finally felt financially stable to start a clothing brand of mine.
What helps you get over creative blocks?
Taking breaks to explore the internet and find clothes that I really like to remember why I'm doing this in the first place. Creating and styling clothes is a passion of mine but can become stressful at times. Sometimes you just need remind yourself that you love and enjoy it.
What is the biggest mistake you have made?
Not starting sooner. In 2021 Houston is flooded with clothing brands trying to come up. I support everyone in the city, but you can tell who really does this clothing stuff seriously. The scene became saturated and it's a little harder to get noticed but thats just another obstacle I'm willing to overcome. I've been taking fashion seriously since 2015 if I would've started it back then we would be taking over the world right now. It will happen soon though.
What is the biggest success you have had?
So far my biggest success has been my first drop last year. It sold out so fast I was not expecting it.
A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION PEOPLE MAY FIND WEIRD?
I get a lot of inspiration from old cigarette advertisements, news papers, and vintage thrifted shirts. I don't know why but I find things like that cool.
Favorite color to use?
Definitely red. Its a perfect contrast color and really makes any design stand out.
ARE THERE ANY RETAIL SHOPS YOU WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU BRAND IN?
I would definitely want my brand in a lot of local retail shops and boutiques in Houston because I love the people in my city. Shops like Social Status, Premium Goods, and Proper are definitely on my list in Houston. Eventually though I would love to see my clothes around the world in all the stores on Fairfax, Soho, Etc.
ANOTHER BRAND THAT INSPIRES YOU AND WHY?
Sicko by Ian Connor and Vlone by Asap Barri. The reason is not because of the brands themselves but Ian and Barri been doing this fashion thing for a while. I believe my mindset and eye for things is on the same level as them. They both started out by just having a passion for clothes and posting instagram fit pics. Now they are the face fashion and streetwear.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AND THE BRAND IN 1 YEAR AND 5 YEARS?
I see my brand taking off and having some of the biggest names in fashion and music wearing my clothes. I plan on doing many pop ups and fashion shows in the near future. If you don't know SOVEREIGN now you will very soon.
IN 5 WORDS OR LESS DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?
Authentic creation by the youth