DESIGNING NEON UNDERGROUND

Flashback time. When I was just a Junior Seaman, I created vibrant prints like Lavender Trip and Party Monsters. Those designs became legends in the NZ festival scene. But as I grew, I wanted to challenge myself. I aimed to craft collections that feel curated and wearable for everyone.

I also wanted to break free from the usual Hawaiian shirts, leggings, and bucket hats that dominated my business. People party in winter too! So, why not explore cold-weather options? I envisioned capsules of complementary garments that tell stories and simplify outfit choices. Plus, I wanted to experiment with selective printing, known as DTF, alongside all-over prints. Neon Underground is the result of this grown-up thinking.

As a child of the early rave scene, I started dancing when smiley faces were all the rage. Honestly, I don’t think they ever went out of style! Retro raving is wildly popular right now. Many of us originators are still on the scene, alongside newbies experiencing the smiley face dance for the first time. It’s a welcoming and unjudgmental community.

Crafting Unique Prints

I began by creating the primary print of the collection, named Happy Hardcore. This name nods to those early warehouse raves. Rows of ombre-colored faces with different expressions danced across a classic black and white check background. But it felt too clean. I played with grunge effects, adding splats for personality. Yet, something was still missing. So, I isolated a smiley face, blew it up, and placed it over the pattern for maximum impact. That’s when it clicked! The result? An original Captain Fantastic print that looks both backward and forward.

I took Happy Hardcore a step further by venturing into DTF streetwear. I created cutouts of the print and placed them on vintage fleece joggers and a matching oversized zipped hoodie. The collection’s secondary print is Neon Forest, a glowing mushroom dream. The fungus print market is saturated, so I avoided generic cartoon mushrooms. Instead, I went botanical with fine lines and naturalistic iconography. The magic came from a vibrant color palette of bright oranges, hot pinks, rich purples, and electric blues on an inky purple-black background. Instantly elevated and refined, these colors flow into the Liquid Signal pieces, where they swirl like colored alcohol ink over black. Thoughtful placement means Liquid Signal easily crosses over to everyday wear.

Designing with Purpose

Once the prints were finished, I focused on the garments. The onesie was non-negotiable! I wrote a list of features I wanted: thick double-sided fleece, a lined hood, proper ribbed wrist and ankle cuffs, a heavy-duty two-way zip (guys, you’ll appreciate this), generous pockets, and a relaxed unisex fit. I found a supplier who could make the Happy Hardcore Onesie to my exact specifications.

If you’ve worn one of my crushed velvet t-shirts, you know how the fabric catches the light, emphasizing colors and patterns beautifully. I wanted to bring this magic into the Happy Hardcore Velvet Harem Pants. These drop-crotch unisex pants are a little street, a little retro, and a whole lot of comfy. I’m thrilled with how they turned out! They look badass with combat boots.

Other printed pieces in the collection are made from mesh for layering or buttery soft spandex for movement. I’ve road-tested everything for quality and fit. My wardrobe is extensive, and I don’t sell anything I wouldn't wear myself. The Partner Collection pieces in Neon Underground complement the prints perfectly. There’s a neon orange cropped fur jacket and a pink fur coat with a giant hood for snuggling, both working with all three prints. The flattering v-front flares in black will become wardrobe staples. New bucket hats in shaggy faux feathers are silly fun, while the sapphire blue rabbit fur trapper hats are simply delicious.

A New Direction for Captain Fantastic

Neon Underground feels like a turning point for Captain Fantastic. It gave me permission to think beyond individual prints and start creating collections that tell a story. I’m already sketching ideas for summer, so check back into From the Studio if you’d like to see what’s coming next.

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Until next time,

Sam

Founder, Captain Fantastic

"Dressing for expression, not permission."