Revolver: A Rare Glimpse at a Secretive Brand

“I don’t really believe in titles,” said Stephen Vigil, whose Los Angeles–based contemporary line, Revolver, places a priority on anonymity for both the designer and the brand. “I feel the line speaks for itself and the word ’designer’ is a bit pretentious. The line is created through a collaboration of myself and the people that work for me.”

Vigil’s deep appreciation for music, particularly the 1966 Beatles album “Revolver,” provided the inspiration for the brand name. “Like the album, Revolver is versatile and displays much vitality and spontaneity,” Vigil explained. “The Revolver woman is confident, strong-willed and coyly sexy. hellip; Similar to a psychedelic rock record, it is only explicable to and by those who live it, and is always open to interpretation. Music doesn’t need an explanation, and Revolver is just fine with that.”

Admittedly influenced by “everything under the sun,” Vigil said the current collection is inspired by film, art, vintage clothing and music ranging from classic rock to indie rock, including favorites The White Stripes, Roxy Music, Donovan and Muse. Launched in the spring of 2003, Revolver’s wholesale business developed organically with Vigil choosing to let people discover it on their own, “like the old days,” he said. Upon learning about the line, buyers will find a stylish assortment of tops and dresses in comfortable Modal jersey fabrications. “When I first started the line, it was much more body-conscious and much more difficult to wear,” said Vigil. “I think, while still remaining sexy and flattering, it is much more forgiving for different body types. I want whoever puts my clothes on to feel good about themselves.”

The upcoming Spring 2008 collection is “very heavily influenced by [everything from] mod culture and music to ’Valley of the Dolls,’” said Vigil. As for signature pieces that remain in the line season after season, Vigil said he keeps the best bodies in the line season after season. “One of our best-selling items was one of the first dresses, ’Nadia.’ Regarding ’Nadia,’ our fits are always evolving. We gave a little more coverage in the bust, but the overall look is the same.”

Currently, 100 percent of the line is produced in Los Angeles, but Vigil is working on some new groups that will be done in Bali. “The group in Bali is just starting, so it is still in the conceptual stage. I chose Bali for their prints and lightweight woven fabrics. This group will have a bit more classic-rock influence: The Doors, Rolling Stones, etc.,” Vigil explained.

The line has fans on both coasts, with Planet Blue and Sugar L.A. on the West Coast as well as Big Drop and Atrium in New York among the top retailers. Revolver will be exhibiting at the Project Global Trade Show in Las Vegas Aug. 27–29 and at Fashion Coterie in New York Sept. 18–20. Wholesale prices range from $30 to $72.

For more information, call (213) 688-9733 or visit www.revolver-losangeles.com. —Dena Smolek