Kilo Goods

http://www.kilogoods.com/

I had a talk with Erik, the man behind Kilo Goods, who gave me some history on the brand, the new Spring ‘07’ collection and the future of the brand. We also talk about upcoming collabos, and I can promise there is some dope stuff waiting. Its interesting to hear where the inspiration behind Kilo Goods comes from, as they present a very refreshing style, not seen on any other brand before. Other than that Erik is also involved with the FoshoFoshow trasdeshow, that takes place in Vegas around the same time as Magic.

How did you get into the clothing game? What is your background?

Drugs!!!No, not really,……I was always into drawing and clothing. I went to 21 schools, mostly shitty neighborhoods in Miami and spent a lot of time as a child in the sunshine program (Miami’s program for “delinquent” children). When I visited my older sister in NYC for the first time in 9th grade It really opened my eyes… such a vivid city with so much hustle. My sis, Marlene Marino is an amazing photographer and artist, she definitely played a big role in my development. I moved to NYC in 99 and was blessed to be around one of the most important modern art movements of the century in my opinion, The Barnstormers. Seeing artist like Ro-Starr doing their thing was very inspirational. I learned graphic design and started a tee line called Demographx with a partner in 2001. Ive put in some time with an urban “major” clothing line where I learned more about cut n sew, on their dime. That was where I met my current partner Kenshin who convinced me to quit and move to Japan to work on a big freelance job. Kenshin had already been a player in streetwear as well as an original member of Matonyc, which was ahead of it’s time. We then left Tokyo with pockets full of Yen and the formation of our current company Kilo International. With the addition of Lin Yeezy, formerly of The Fader Magazine as our secret weapon and Nasty Nate the ambassador we are ready to build out the brand.

Kilo Goods is the shit right now and so far your graphic Inspiration and colorways seem to come from the 80's and Miami Lifestyle. Do you agree? What inspires you the most when designing the clothing? How come you being based in NYC, Miami Lifestyle has such a strong influence on your collections? Does that fascinates you or what?

Thanks for the compliment. I know you got your eye on the whole industry, so that really means a lot. I would say yes, that the spring collection is inspired by the attitude of Miami lifestyle in the 80’s. It isn’t literally interpreted in the graphics but the color story and mood reflects that era of decadence and style. Art Deco, Hollywood and politics also inspire the line. As a Cuban/Colombian kid growing up in Miami, I looked up to the hustlers...all the kids on my block did. Their entire presence was luxury, the cars, the designer European clothing, the woman around them...they were the American dream. While many of my childhood friends chose to follow in their lead, I decided to paint the picture. I would say, yeah I’m pretty fascinated by Miami, even though Ive been in NYC for 8 years now, Miami is where my daydreams were sculpted.

How do you see the market now and how do you think it will develop in the near future?

I love whats going on in the market. It’s the rise of independents. It’s not really for the suits to understand, and they don’t. It’s a new game with new media, new marketing, new blood. Ill say that it’s a lot more exciting than 2003. Compitition is good..it breeds better products in the end. I do think that a lot of newer brands will fall off though in the near future just because they will see that this shit ain’t easy. Its one thing to have some tee shirts printed, it’s another to source fabrics a year in advance and construct quality garments. Plus the day to day business is a killer, but very worth it if you truly love to grind.

Tell me a about how you see the future of Kilo Goods. How do you want to build the brand?

With Kilo Goods I see the future as bright. It feels like a long time coming, our team is at the top of our game and everything is in place. We have some interesting colab projects coming out this spring/summer with Cali roots in Stockholm and 24 Kilates in Barcelona. For the NYC locals, look out for a series of summer parties. Going into Fall 07 you will see an expanded collection with a deeper range of products like jackets, pants, headwear etc. Kilo Goods is a lifestyle company, we will continue to push intricate detail, top quality and fresh design. We just do what we do man, and grow by the day. Don’t be surprised when you see kilo goods luxury vehicles with matching driving gloves…. hybrid of coarse

Thanks Erik for taking the time to talk to me. I m looking forward to meeting you again soon and make sure to keep me posted on the future development on all your ventures!

No doubt Rico, thanks for the opportunity. Stay Fresh Brooklyn is Dope, you really have a worldly appeal to your blog. We are big fans. Our crew has a lot of things cooking right now, with more marinating in the fridge. Big things, you’ll be the first to know.-eazy!