At Proper, we’re always on the lookout for fresh and upcoming brands, it’s probably us subconsciously trying to remain cool. So we were really pleased when new streetwear start-up, Kapwa, shot us an email. Having just launched their first-ever collection titled ‘Forest’ we were keen to find out more. We chatted to founders Adam, Margret, and Amaia about the brand’s inspiration, approach to sustainable production and lessons that they’ve learnt from the process so far.
Hi Kapwa crew, would you be able to tell me where the name comes from?
Kapwa is a Tagalog word, from the Philippines which describes the Filipino concept of shared identity—recognising the connection between individuals and the environment. It’s about putting community before self and celebrating our unity with nature.
Where is the brand based?
Belfast, Northern Ireland. We started it in our apartment, and as we grow we will look at other options but for now our living room is more of a warehouse than anything else!
Your first collection is called The Forest Collection, so it’s pretty safe to assume that you’ve taken inspiration from forests for this. But we want to know, with the brand being born out of Belfast, has this had any influence on designs?
Our brand’s inspiration is deeply personal, one of our founders’ mothers was an Irish abstract artist from Belfast whose work draws from the beauty of Irish nature and Celtic patterns. At the same time, the concept of Kapwa—the Filipino belief in the interconnectedness of all things—speaks to us. Where in the Philippines, forests are seen as places of magic and enkanto (enchantment), making them the perfect inspiration for our first collection.
On your website, you mention that a desire for more sustainable clothes is a large driving force behind Kapwa, in what ways are you aiming to achieve this?
Sustainability has been at the heart of our brand from day one, and it’s something we’re always working to improve. So far, we’re proud to say that all of our products are made using 100% cotton, avoiding unsustainable synthetic materials. Our commitment to sustainability extends to our packaging, which is made from paper and is completely recyclable, including inkless printing on our paper shipping labels. We carefully choose suppliers who share our dedication to sustainable and ethical production practices. To further reduce our carbon footprint, we’re working with several European suppliers to find optimal locations to bring our manufacturing closer to our customer base.
It seems like everyone and their dad is trying their hand at starting a brand at the moment, what do you think sets Kapwa apart from the rest?
You’re right—there are so many brands out there today. What we believe sets Kapwa apart is our mission to bring people together and our commitment to sustainability throughout our entire supply chain. We’re also proud of our unique abstract styles that not only make a statement but also blend effortlessly with other pieces in your wardrobe, allowing versatility and individuality. At the same time, we love seeing more people starting their own brands—it’s exciting to see so many new ideas and creativity coming to life.
Are there any brands that you take visual inspiration from?
There are so many brands that we love. We often visit local clothes markets and thrift shops for inspiration. When it comes to ideological inspiration, it’s brands like Stussy, known for their distinct identity and dedicated customer base, that have influenced our approach. We love how they are able to cultivate a strong sense of community through their work.
So, with the first collection taking inspiration from forests, what can we expect the next collection to look like from Kapwa?
Expect more colour, more unique styles and as always aspects of nature throughout. We are designing this next drop as we speak and we can’t wait for you to see it!
Have you learnt any lessons from starting a clothing brand? Any information to pass on to others that may be doing the same?
Find what sets you apart and be authentic to who you are. Bringing it all together can be overwhelming. Make sure you have support, and don’t be afraid to ask people for help. Most people are kind, supportive, and want to watch you succeed.
Outside of the next collection, what does the future hold for Kapwa?
We want to build a community through Kapwa and host events that bring people together, which is something we want to see more of in Belfast and beyond. Of course, there’s also new collections and styles on the horizon… hopefully that answers the question without giving too much away!
Nice chatting with you all, best of luck for the future.
To shop Kapwa’s latest collection do so here.
