Here is a shortened, clean version of your prompt with the same meaning:
⸻
Inside Alterior, a hub of craft, creativity and community in East Vancouver, the Chreptyk brothers, Cole and Dallas, have created more than just a clothing store. This unique space houses a hairdresser, a library, an atelier filled with sewing machines, and even a small climbing wall, all indicative of the brothers’ commitment to creating an inclusive and diverse community space.
The Beginning of Alterior
Alterior began as a shared dream between the Chreptyk brothers during their high school years. Both Cole and Dallas, now aged 34 and 32 respectively, harboured ambitions of starting their own clothing brand. Their journey led them to work at Livestock, a well-known purveyor of cool sneakers in Vancouver. Their early years at Livestock exposed them to the world of product, retail culture and community. This experience laid the foundation for what would eventually become Alterior.
From Dreams to Reality
The brothers’ concept began to take shape shortly after their time at Livestock, with small-batch leather goods handmade by Cole. In 2014, Alterior launched its first product online and at Livestock: A leather belt that remains a popular item. The hands-on approach of the brothers led to collaborations with respected Los Angeles-based streetwear brands such as Mister Green and Brain Dead.
The Physical Space: A Reflection of the Brand
In 2022, the Chreptyk brothers opened their first physical space in East Vancouver. The space served as a reflection of the brand, with a focus on cut-and-sew menswear meticulously handmade in-house by Cole. As Alterior grew, the brothers divided responsibilities, with Cole focusing on production, while Dallas took charge of buying and curating.
The brothers also make a point of honouring the history of the spaces they occupy. For instance, signage from the former Ace of Suede dry cleaner still hangs on the shop’s exterior. The physical space has become a crucial part of Alterior’s identity, serving as a significant third place for local creatives, aside from home and work.
A Hub for the Creative and the Curious
Alterior is not just a store, but a hub for creatives. The space attracts skateboarders, climbers, menswear enthusiasts and curious passersby. The brothers believe in the importance of the community in shaping the space. According to Dallas, “If you come here and you feel connected to the space, you can be a part of it as much as you want to be. This space is special because of everyone involved.”
Alterior’s Impact on East Vancouver
Alterior has become an integral part of East Vancouver’s broader creative landscape. The brand’s openness and diversity are reflected in the people who share it. According to Mike DiPietro, who runs the street-style photography project Seasons of East Van, “People are influential without trying to be. There’s a diversity of clothing and people here. It’s not pretentious at all.”
Embracing Change and Staying True
Alterior continues to thrive by embracing change while remaining true to its roots. As Dallas puts it, “I think this radical openness is something you don’t see very often. It’s a combination of things you’re not going to find anywhere else.” Whether it’s the unique Lloyd tuque, a popular item at Alterior designed by Kathy Hamagami and hand-sewn by Cole, or the heart-shaped rock paperweights made by their father, Alterior remains a testament to the power of craft, creativity and community.
