Since its grand opening on May 3rd, Epocha has rapidly become a main hub for stylish men’s wear, art shows from local artists, and cool parties. Owner, Brandon Ayala, sees Dallas as a very young city, compared to Los Angeles and New York, and he’s taking advantage of that by introducing a boutique for people “who embrace their own individual style.” With a unique clothing selection and as great destination for the creative types, Epocha extends itself as more than just a store. Ayala promises more collaborations with musical guests, local designers, and even chefs. THRWD sat down with Ayala and asked about where his idea came from, his favorite item in store, and summer fashion tips.
What encouraged you to open up a clothing store? Did you see demand for a type of fashion you carry?
I was tired of having to travel to New York or Los Angeles to get the brands and products that I wanted. Sure there are other hip street wear boutiques throughout the city, but they all cater to a younger demographic. At the age of 33, I was born and raised in the Hip-Hop, street wear, graffiti, skating, house music ways of life. So it is a part of me to express myself through my fashion. But I’m too old to be wearing really loud graphic tees and snap backs, I’ll leave that for the younger guys. I need a more mature way of expressing myself, and that is what we are trying to create here at Epocha, street wear in a graduated level. We aim to carry integral pieces for your closet that will last the test of time…both in durability and trend. We want you to be able to wear our products 5 years from now and it still look current and makes you feel as good as the day you first wore it.
What’s one of your favorite items in the store?
One of my favorite items that we have at the store is the Filling Pieces Footwear brand from Amsterdam. We are the only Texas who stock these amazing handmade products that are raising a storm right now in Paris for their 2014 Agenda show. Heritage looks in a more modern streamlined fit is where its all about. Be ready to see things you would normally associate to your grandfather;s closet like Red Wing and Carhartt to take a big role in our Fall/Winter season of 2014.
What are some new Summer trend items you recommend?
You can never go wrong with a good fitting Jogger Pant. Fashion is headed towards a very streamline and efficient tailored cut. No more of that big bulky baggy look. We carry a wide selection of colors and weights of material of Joggers in the Publish Brand which is leading the global market in the jogger pant world.
Do you carry any local designers? If so, who?
We have many projects in the works, some of which i have to keep secret for now. But we have been working with some collaborative work with local brands like Verum, Wheron, Inell and more to come.
What’s your favorite local boutique to shop here in Dallas.
It’s not a fashion boutique, but my favorite is Timothy Oulton. I really admire how they are trying to provide their customers with more then just a retail experience. Quality product with quality material in a very homey environment.
What plans do you have to embed Epocha into the creative culture here in Dallas?
We plan to continue to provide our front gallery space we call “La Sala” to local creatives…be it art, fashion, photography, music, barbers, chefs…whatever their art my be. So that it can give them a platform to be exposed to like minded people who would appreciate it. In Epocha our goal is to be a cultural hub for creatives…with retail items that fit the lifestyle. We have a lot of interesting shows planned for the future so check out our to stay up to date.
Epocha: 2540 Elm St. Dallas / Wednesday-Friday, 10 am-8 pm /Saturday, noon-8 pm / Sunday, noon-6 pm.
