Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to RJ “Token” Harris. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, RJ “Token” thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Above The Norm (ATN) was created to inspire and empower those who feel they do not fit society’s norms. We hope to give our ATN family the ambition to defy the norm and open their eyes to new perspectives and opportunities. Through celebrating individuality, our message remains the same throughout our movement: Refuse To Be Normal.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am the creator of Above The Norm, which is more than just a clothing brand, but an experience and a timeless movement. Kansas City, Missouri is where it all started, however, the smaller city mindset pushed me to go out and explore what I could really do as a creative. After moving to LA in 2018, I was motivated and determined to get my message and ideas to people I previously didn’t think I could reach.

I specialize in producing unique, high-quality garments and have seen several successful collections in the past. In 2021 I landed my first exclusive deal with Zumiez, which allowed me to retail my clothing in over 30 stores around the US. After my first drop sold out, I decided to continue my relationship with Zumiez and dropped my second exclusive collection with them last month. Growing up in Kansas City, Zumiez was one of my only outlets in the skate world and culture. The brands they house, like DGK and The Hundreds, were some of the first brands that truly inspired me and why Above The Norm was such a strong fit. Furthermore, creating this partnership with the company has allowed me to flourish as one of the few Black Owned Businesses being represented within Zumiez.

Independently, I have urged myself to go beyond the norms of your average streetwear brand. Within every design, there is a meaning beyond the graphic you see. Whether that be a piece of our mascot Norm’s backstory or a message I think is important to relay through the lens of ATN. I am currently venturing into making jewelry, accessories, and home goods that will further our movement and the foundation we have built.

Can you talk to us about manufacturing? How’d you figure it all out? We’d love to hear the story.

When I was initially creating Above The Norm I began sourcing and ordering the best blank tees I could find online. I have always tried to stay local when it came to printing and was on the hunt for the best print shop in town. Finding both a private manufacturer and someone who could complete print jobs took several years and a lot of trial and error. I finally connected with a manufacturer overseas who could handle most of my basic needs and we have now created a staple tee that is unique to Above The Norm. I currently have a few manufacturers for the different garments I create from t-shirts to 1 of 1 custom pieces. When it comes to finding manufacturers it has been crucial that I am able to communicate effortlessly with those who are executing my vision. It has been a huge learning curve, but there is no better feeling than seeing my visions, concepts, and drawings come to life.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

When I created Above The Norm I had the mindset that there are no bounds on creation and I cannot be afraid of experimentation. I still hold these ideals as a part of my core values and ultimately it has contributed to how I have built my reputation within the fashion industry. Again, I am more than just a brand that produces tees and hoodies, but a creator of daring garments and accessories. I strive to feed the misfits, those who embrace not being normal. Each piece is designed to be accompanied by the feeling of being beyond the common person. What has set us apart is our unapologetic authenticity and how we are able to influence others to refuse to be normal.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.abovethenorm.us/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abovethenorm.us/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AboveTheNormATN/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/abovethenormal
• Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abovethenormatn?

Image Credits
Photos Taken By: Austin “Irrelevant” Smith – Instagram: @irrelevant.atn Edits By: Travis Baker – Instagram: @trvs_bkr