Screen Shot: Natural Super
Website: benaturalsuper.com
City Based: Burlington, VT
What inspired the brand name?
Conversation with a friend when they looked at early design:
Their comment: “That’s super dope man”
My reply: “Naturally”
…the rest was history.
At what moment did you realize you wanted to start a brand?
The first time a silkscreened a t-shirt. It was of this Shaolin monk. I got complemented nonstop when I wore it out. I had done a lot of graphic design work prior but being able to translate the artwork into this canvas that could be worn out in public was a transformative moment and ultimately the start of the brand.
What helps you get over creative blocks?
Follow lots of very talented artists and designers on Tumblr, Instagram, Ello, and Behance. Build a great feed based on who you are following and you will always end up seeing something that helps inspire a new creative idea or concept as you scroll through.
What is the biggest mistake you have made?
Investing in too much inventory and not being to work on new designs until flipping what’s on hand.
What is the biggest success you have had?
A capsule collaboration with European designer, Ella Gallen, was featured in Vogue España.
A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION PEOPLE MAY FIND WEIRD?
Old films. In particular Scene Nykvist’s work with Ingmar Bergman.
Favorite color to use?
Negative space i.e. the color of the canvas (shirt) as an active part of the design.
ARE THERE ANY RETAIL SHOPS YOU WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU BRAND IN?
ANOTHER BRAND THAT INSPIRES YOU AND WHY?
Parra. The simplicity of the designs coupled with bold vibrant color design… so good.
Where do you see yourself and the brand in 1 year and 5 years?
1 year: expanded body of collaborations working in primarily the same medium as of current i.e. shirts.
5 years: significant forays into other apparel and accessory categories though in-house and co-branded collaborative releases.
In 5 words or less describe your brand?
Clean, Cool, Bold, Elevated, Simple
