Vaquera’s Future Vision

Decade-old fashion label Vaquera is known for toying with the fringe — thematically, aesthetically, expressively. Yet the clothes are imbued with enough relatable thinking to be downright compelling. As the designers put it: “Vaquera makes fashion fan fiction while aiming to subvert luxury and tell stories.” These days, the brand is helmed by two of its four original designers: Patric DiCaprio and Bryn Taubensee. Although based in New York, Paris has been their show city for the past year — and it certainly feels like a natural fit.

 

How would you describe your evolution — to this point in 2023, including the new collection you’re showing at Paris Fashion Week — as a brand?

We are always evolving. We started this brand from nothing and have managed to build a business around what was originally just artistic expression. 

 

What moment, design or collection marked a turning point for you?

There have been so many over the years. The most recent turning point was our move to showing in Paris. We feel so supported here and inspired by the city. 

 

What would you like us to know about this collection?

This collection also feels like a turning point. We are embracing new ideas, but also looking to our older collections for inspiration. 

 

Where are you noticing the most significant changes in fashion today? 

There aren't many! We feel like the industry is very stagnant and getting more confused every day. We hope for more intentional decision making by those in positions of power who support designers with a strong vision and new ideas.

 

How well do you think fashion is embracing various societal shifts: gender, inclusion, diversity, environmental engagement?

These serious topics deserve everyone's attention. But often, brands are focused on these issues to appeal to consumers not because they care or have any relationship to these shifts. It is scary when serious ideas becomes a tool for capitalism.

 

The fashion audience is ever-evolving. How important is it for you to connect with Generation Z, and how are you doing this?

Vaquera is about the future and many of our customers are quite young. It is super important to understand people who are younger than you and those who are older! It's boring to just appeal to people of a certain age. Our connection to Gen Z comes from using TikTok.

 

Evolution is gradual. Revolution is radical. Is fashion still capable of revolution?

Aesthetic revolution, absolutely. But it is hard to make lasting changes in people's lives just with clothing, especially when you are a young brand with limited funding. Larger, older and more established brands have the power and influence to make real change. It is disappointing that so few seem to prioritise this type of thing. 

 

This interview has been lightly edited for clarity.