Chi IlochiMarch 26, 2024

Aposoul Clothing: The Hidden Story

Chi IlochiMarch 26, 2024

“In your life, if you're lucky enough, you are born during a moment in time when the world is ready for the change you're bringing.” - Jacqueline Woodson. Raymond Percell is the Philadelphia-bred fashion artist who’s introducing everyone to a better reality through his clothing brand, Aposoul Clothing. It is easy to exist in life, but it is challenging to allow life itself to live through you. Raymond is a class act of purpose, perspective, and possibility. I was blessed with the privilege of sitting down over beautiful conversation with the mastermind, and I am proud to share it with you below.

Who are you?

My name is Raymond Percell and I’m a Fashion Designer, Multimedia Artist & Founder of clothing brand Aposoul Clothing. I consider myself an indigo child. I knew there was more to life at a young age, and I wanted to see that come to light. I am someone who uses my talents to find a better reality.

Where are you from?

I was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I moved to the neighborhood of Fishtown, at around three years of age. I was raised by my grandmother who would then pass when I was fourteen years old. When I turned seventeen I decided to leave home and do things on my own.

What made you decide to start your brand?

Since a child, I have been an artist. I made backgrounds for people on YouTube at the age of eleven. A friend of my uncle had a brand, so he decided to give me a laptop to make clothing. This laptop was unfortunately stolen, and ties were cut as a result, but through it, I was able to start my clothing brand. I grew up wearing hand-me-downs, and I didn’t have much clothing growing up. I grew up creative in a wide variety of mediums, from cooking to skating to music, but I felt inclined to put my artistic abilities and life journey into fashion.

Aposoul Clothing is a unique name for a clothing brand, what inspired this name?

I am not a religious person, however I am a spiritual person, and I resonated with the biblical term “apostle”. I define “Aposoul” as the follower of the better version of yourself. My mantra is this: If I work on my brand I get better at being myself. If I work on myself, I get better at my brand. Aposoul Clothing reflects that as it is a brand that took years to come to light. From pop-up shops to fashion shows, I see it as a correspondent of my life, my second child if you will.

The designs you’ve created are nothing short of brilliant, but who and which things were your inspiration while creating such designs?

No one is. I take logos and the science behind them to create what’s in my mind. I don’t look up people or fashion brands, I go off of what’s in my spirit. I’ve been gifted with the ability to freehand sketch, so I decided to take that gift and apply it to my clothing. One could say it’s just me who’s the inspiration, but it’s God as well.

When I came across your work I knew I found a goldmine, would you say you’re proud of your creativity and journey?

Hell Yeah! Every time I doubt myself, I’m always reminded "I’m tripping”.

Philadelphia isn’t known for fashion, how is it orchestrating Aposoul Clothing with that in mind?

I beg to differ, I believe Philadelphia has its own ties in fashion. However, I want to try to get to that level of being known as a highly sought-after Philadelphia-based fashion brand.

What according to you is your favorite part of being a fashion designer?

I would say sewing is. I started sewing in May of 2023. I find it easy, joyful, and lucrative. With sewing, there is more profit and less rigorous work.

Any up and coming designers we should be privy to?

You should keep an eye out for Saint Hygh, and “Your Friend Sabo”.

What’s next for you?

The next step is restocking angel tees in different colorways, and releasing new designs I have tucked away. I also plan on being in more abstract fashion shows, portfolio production events, and listening parties.

Thank you Raymond for your time, talent, and artistry. You are seen, celebrated, and appreciated.