KALAWAKAN: THE IDEA MANIFESTED IN ME

“I’m Chris Lupena, a 28 year old  college drop out who’s always been passionate about music, photography and travel.”

How was life growing up?

“I grew up pretty much the same as everyone else, grew up in a catholic family. Was raised being told to "Study hard, graduate college, get a good job, then settle down." and  that's it. Nothing extraordinary. but even then I knew, that following the crowd is not my thing. I grew up always having trouble with the people in authority. I don't like being told to do something that goes against my views and I'm kind of vocal when it comes to my opinion.”

When did you first witness you had creative talents?

“I was 13 when I discovered that I can easily learn to play music instruments. The first was the drums, then the guitar. I really want to learn how to draw or paint back then but I just can't so by the age of 19 I bought an entry level dslr camera and started to dive into photography.”

How did the name KALAWAKAN come about?

“On a random drinking session, out of nowhere, I just threw the idea of creating a clothing brand and name it KALAWAKAN. Of course it's a joke, but somehow the idea manifested in me. Then, the rest is history.” 

With starting a brand, there’s always adversity you face in the beginning. What difficulties have you faced so far?

“I think the first step was always the hardest, I don't have any background or formal lessons in Fashion Design and Marketing. I'm always grateful that I've met some people who shared their knowledge with me that helped me shaped my vision into reality. One of the obvious difficulties I had was selling a merch that nobody knows about. Nobody cares when you're just starting out, They don't know your brand. But still, You have to make sure that you give the people a reason to support your brand. I'm lucky enough that some people did support my brand back in 2016. The first year was really the hardest I think. But I've been optimistic ever since.”

Latest collection, what inspired the concept?

“The most recent collection was inspired by the weather itself. Summer. What we long for, what we miss and what we want. Ocean waves, beautiful sunsets and ice cream lol. In this collection, I tried to balance the laidback/playful vibe and the side where I could still send a strong message to my audience.”

To shop click here: ELEVATE THE COMMON STATE OF MIND COLLECTION

What could we be expecting from KALAWAKAN as the rest of the year rolls out?

“Fresh designs, more options, more creative visuals, possible collaborations etc. We'll try be more immersed in the local music scene too so we'll be able to meet the people who supports our brand.”

As a company, where do you see KALAWAKAN going?

“It's just a vision, but I really want to reach other parts of asia, or the world, I mean why not right? hehe. Dream big.” 

What you’ve learned over the years with KALAWAKAN?

“I've learned to never compare your progress with that of others, I've learned to celebrate small victories, to lift others up without expecting anything in return. To always be thankful and grateful that these synchronicity seem to aline in my own universe.”

When it’s all said and done how would you like to be remembered?

“I like Kalawakan to be remembered as a brand that promotes positivity, perseverance and hardwork. To also be remembered as a catalyst to defy the traditional way of thinking. That we elevate the common state of mind. and that We keep the soul of the brand a priority instead of success.”