Walking around LMU you may have seen the logo “XK” or “Xtra Kredit” and wondered what it means; well it’s the name of Jarrett “Jaykred” Ellis’ California cool streetwear brand. A So-Cal native, it is clear that Jaykred has an eye for fashion and a talent for design. With designs for both men and women, their pieces can amp up anyones wardrobe. Keep reading to find out how the brand started, where he finds his inspiration, and most importantly, where you can buy his clothes!Â
Name: Jarrett “Jaykred” Ellis
Year: Sophomore
Hometown: Riverside, CA
Major: Business-Marketing
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What are you involved in on campus?
I have a radio show called The Kwe and Jay Show.
What was your first experience in fashion?
My first experience with fashion started when I was little and my mom would always dress me from head to toe in name brand clothing. She made sure my outfits were always perfect.
How would you describe your style?
My style is pretty basic as long as I have my nudie jeans, an XK shirt, and some dope/comfortable shoes I’m good. Occasionally I try to channel my inner Kanye and wear something crazy.
How and when did you start your clothing line, Xtra Kredit?
I started XK in the fall of 2009 when I was a freshman in high school. I started by making designs on my computer, then getting them printed and then selling them to my friends and family.
What inspired you to start a clothing line?
The “Jesus Is My Homeboy” shirts inspired me to start my own brand. I wanted to create products that gave people the same feeling they felt when they put that shirt on.
Who do you design your clothes for?
I design my clothes for anyone who appreciates good music, sports, and likes to live a chill/California lifestyle.
Who are your style icons?
Pharrell, Kanye and Ralph Lauren.
How has your brand grown since you first started?
We have grown from only a few people rocking it at my high school to people wearing XK in countries around the world and athletes in the NBA, NFL and MLB. Â
We noticed on the XK Instagram account (@xtrakredit) that you guys are involved in a lot of charity work. Is that tied into the clothing line? Tell us about it.
Two Thanksgivings ago we were having a meeting to discuss are strategy for Black Friday when we got the idea to go to Costco and buy food to cook as many meals as we could in one night. So we made 200 meals the first year and drove around San Bernardino and gave them away. We did that the following year except we gave away 500 meals. For Christmas we buy toys, wrap them, and give them to kids in the same community. This past year we gave a little over 300 toys to kids in the neighborhood.
Are you pursuing anything else besides your clothing line?
I’m working on few other projects, possibly another clothing brand. Â My roommate Kwe and I are also starting a production company.
Where can people buy XK?