Give us your elevator pitch.
ROUGH—DRAFT®: The Perfect Blend of City Style and Outdoor Exploration
The Five Ws
Who is ROUGH—DRAFT® for?
ROUGH—DRAFT® is for anyone who is influenced by the outdoors. And when we say “outdoors,” we don’t just mean hiking or camping. It’s for those who find joy in taking a walk in their neighborhood, taking the scenic route on their daily commute, or simply stepping outside. It’s for anyone who resonates with being outdoors in their own way.
What is ROUGH—DRAFT®’s main message?
At ROUGH—DRAFT®, we believe in embracing the natural world in whatever way feels right for you. We want people to feel confident wearing our garments in their everyday lives, whether that’s in the city, on a casual weekend trip, or anywhere in between. Each piece is influenced by elements of nature or outdoor gear we’ve come across over the years, but reinterpreted through a broader lens for everyday wear.
When was ROUGH—DRAFT® launched?
Officially, September 2022. But it’s been a blur since then.
Why was ROUGH—DRAFT® created?
The founder, Nate Sturley, spent time living in Yosemite National Park, which was his first real experience in the mountains. It was eye-opening, especially coming from Detroit. He wanted to share that experience and the only way he knew how was through creating a brand. His hope was that others who felt the same pull towards exploration would connect with it, especially those who look like him.
Where are people wearing ROUGH—DRAFT® gear?
Right now, our biggest market is NYC. But we’re looking to establish a stronger presence on the West Coast for FW25, especially in the Pacific Northwest. That region was a major influence for the brand’s origin.
About the Brand
Where did the inspiration for the brand come from, and how was the name chosen?
The inspiration for ROUGH—DRAFT® came from Nate’s time in Yosemite. It changed his perspective, and he wanted to channel that into something tangible. The name itself comes from the creative process – everything starts as an idea or an iteration. It felt fitting for a brand rooted in exploration and constant refinement.
How does the brand’s name inform the creation of its goods and its way of thinking?
While most brands focus on the finished product, at ROUGH—DRAFT®, we believe that the process – trial, error, and revision – is just as important. Exploration, whether in design, nature, or city life, requires constant iteration. We embrace that mindset in how we create well-crafted, intentional clothing, making each piece a reflection of the journey.
Part of ROUGH—DRAFT®’s mission statement is that the brand is dedicated to “serving the space between.” What does that mean?
Our logo includes a dash, which represents the journey – the failures, successes, and time that lead to the “final” product. It also symbolizes the balance between city life and the outdoors, bridging those two worlds. At ROUGH—DRAFT®, we are dedicated to serving that space between, where exploration and refinement meet.
