Rich Rocket: The Next Gen of Style Setters Taking Over the District

D.C.’s got style. With everything from cute streetwear to tailored suits, plenty of people turn heads just walking down city streets. But who’s making their clothing, helping them decide what looks good and dreaming up the latest in fashion? It’s the designers of the city, the tailors, the entrepreneurs. Here is one of the 14 must-know figures in fashion from the DMV. Check out our October Issue for the full coverage.

Creative director + design lead at Vintage Thrivals

District Fray: What are some of your favorite looks to wear in front of an audience?
Rich Rocket: I love to wear things that are loud enough to be felt by the back row. Comfort is important as well and silhouette makes all the difference, but I have to make sure whatever I am wearing informs the audience of what they are about to get into — and that it is a time they won’t soon forget.

How do you curate the selection at Vintage Thrivals?

First, I am always looking for pieces with unique shapes. Silhouettes and frames that may have thrived during a certain time or stand out always catch my eye and work best with my brush. Second, vibrance, a great color or unique wash of denim will always be priority. Lastly, potential. I usually can eyeball an article of clothing and see what it can be and where it should go.

Vintage Thrivals combines the ’80s, ’90s and today. What elements of each time period do you include in your outfits?

From the ’80s, I draw the audacity. People were unafraid to try new shapes, celebrate androgyny and use colors. From the ’90s, I find the edge to be definitive with my look, lean into a concept and go all the way. And from present times I always consider how my look can absorb trends without losing sight of what keeps me original.

How do podcasts, graphic design, fashion and on-stage hosting allow you to be creative in different ways?

They all play into creating the “team of me.” All factors tie into keeping the show on the road, and each skill set sharpens the others to keep me well-rounded in what I create, what I present and who I am.

iamrichrocket.co/vintage-thrivals // @vintagethrivals; @iamrichrocket // @richrocketmedia

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Aviva Bechky