Our Story

Founder’s Story — Silva Espadas

Silva Espadas was born from an immigrant story — my story.

I was born in Mexico and brought to the United States when I was very young. We lived in California — LA, Pomona, Ontario — before my parents moved our family to the Chicagoland suburbs. Like many immigrant families, we did what we had to do to survive. We worked. We adapted. We kept going.

I come from a working-class household, and I learned early that nothing is handed to us. If we want something — especially our dreams — we have to work for it. Harder. Louder. With pride.

Growing up, I was always proud to be Latino. Seeing other Latinos succeed never made me feel small — it made me feel powerful. But when it came to streetwear, I didn’t see myself reflected. I saw brands talking about Latinos instead of talking to us. Our culture was often reduced to aesthetics, stereotypes, or trends — not lived experience.

That’s why Silva Espadas exists.

The name is personal. Silva is my father’s last name. Espadas is my mother’s. Together, they represent family, legacy, and strength. Espadas — swords — symbolize perseverance and the will to keep moving forward, even when the odds are stacked against you.

Every piece we create is designed in-house and rooted in real Latino culture — tattoos, music, religion, Día de los Muertos, street culture, bandana paisley motifs, and the humor we find in Mexican Spanish slang. Especially the raw, unfiltered kind. The way we actually talk. The way we actually live.

Silva Espadas is By Us, For Us — not as a slogan, but as a responsibility. We create for Latinos because we are Latinos. We understand the pride, the struggle, the confidence, and the sense of belonging that comes from knowing where you come from and refusing to hide it.

This brand didn’t start with money. It started with time, sacrifice, and a lot of self-doubt. There were moments where mounting debt, fear, and uncertainty almost made me quit. What kept me going was my family — my kids — and the belief that perseverance matters. That our dreams are worth fighting for.

Silva Espadas isn’t just clothing.
It’s a reflection of who we are.
A statement of pride.
A reminder that our culture doesn’t need permission.

My hope is that Silva Espadas becomes a beacon — proof that Latinos can build, create, and succeed without watering ourselves down. For my family. For our community. And for the next generation watching us do it.