There is nothing like having a fresh outfit on. From the shoes, belt, shirt and even jeans, when you look good you tend to do better as well. Not to mention, if you just purchase gear that no one else in your circle is wearing, you may experience a sense of euphoria. Recently I had the opportunity to sit down with Mike and T of LVRG by Capitalist and it was a match made in heaven. From the clothes and most essentially the kicks, I was in a sneaker lovers wildest fantasy. PUMA, Diadora, and New Balance are just a few brands to name that I always supported and this stylish boutique carries the most exclusive shoes that are sure to make anyone envy your athletic collection.
JT: How did you come up with the name LVRG and Capitalist?
T: We wanted to cater to the urban streets and some boutiques are not super trendy. We wanted to created a venue where clothes and shoes are worn by the younger crowd. Creating an atmosphere for the “hip” young man was the goal. Once people start rocking shoes out of LVRG they are addicted and its no rules at all! Capitalist was developed to fill a void in the market place. You can walk into a Footlocker or other shoe places in the mall and expect someone is buying the same item as you. Our focus was having versatility in the wardrobe. Our product group separate us from other stores. Everywhere our customers go, people ask about where they are getting their shoes.
JT: Growing up, did you see yourself owning a shoe boutique?
T: Yes, I always been around fashion ever since I was a young boy. Not to mention, I had the chance to witness the birth of street urban clothing. Meeting Russell Simmons at the age of 7 was definitely a great experience. Being from the south and enjoying my summer vacation in NYC, the experience of fashion was all around me. I wanted to embrace the culture and spirit and bring it back to the south. My sister is a model and I was exposed to the fashion industry very early. Knowing many heavy-hitters in the business to this day has definitely shaped me into who I am as a person. NYC was always advance when it came to fashion and shoes. Being up there only helped me strengthen my love for clothes.
JT: How does clothing make you feel?
T: Clothing makes you feel really good! I had the chance to intern at a record label in NYC and my duties included giving out promotional gear whether it was stickers, music or even clothes. I was fresh everyday and did not have to wear the same thing in High school. It has the potential to make you feel like a new person every time you get dressed.
JT: Did you attend college or any other school for your background experience ?
T: Yes, I attended Alabama A&M University for Fashion and I realized that the program was getting too intense for my liking! I did stay and continue my studies in Business. Because I run a business, I was glad to focus my studies on things that could help me in the long run.
JT: What is something you had to learn in this business?
T: Your face card is very important in this industry! One thing that I love is that my company represent products in a cool way. We enjoy playing a role where clothes and shoes can be expressed in a different way. We are not making the same numbers as a store such as Foot Action or a regular shoe store. Setting trends and working close to our customers set us apart from the rest.
JT: What does True Urban Culture means to you?
T: Its really the culture of the streets and lifestyle as a whole. When I say urban, it means the streets in general and it has nothing to do with demographics. Whether its a wallet, shirt or hat, we try to dress or customers from head to toe and stay in tune with the streets.
Whatever and however you decide to rock your fresh gear, make sure you incorporate some major factors. Confidence, style and most essentially, comfort! Check out LVRG By Capitalist if you are ever in the Snellville area. Trust me, it is worth the trip and you will definitely be satisfied with your purchase!
