Back to Business As Usual
Captured by Mitchell Royel: The energy in the studio pulses with life as models showcase the latest Mitch Leyor designs against a backdrop of warm, golden lighting. Now playing: "Location" by Burna Boy featuring Dave, the Afrobeats-infused track from Dave's 2019 album "PSYCHODRAMA" fills the space with its infectious rhythm, setting the perfect soundtrack for creativity to flow. The models move with confidence as Mitchell directs each shot with precision, creating an atmosphere where fashion and music blend seamlessly into an experience that transcends the typical photoshoot.
There's something powerful about knowing exactly where you need to be. For Mitchell Royel, founder of the rising menswear brand Mitch Leyor, finding his true location meant leaving behind the corporate confines of Abercrombie & Fitch to build something authentic to his personal values.
I had the privilege of sitting down with Mitchell during one of his legendary photoshoots - an experience unlike any other in the fashion industry. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the pulsing beats of afrobeats classics (with "Location" by Burna Boy featured prominently in the rotation) and an atmosphere that felt more like a celebration than a workday.
At Abercrombie, everything was calculated and corporate for Mitchell. He learned invaluable lessons about branding and aesthetics during his tenure there, but always felt something was missing - authenticity, community, purpose.
What strikes you immediately about a Mitch Leyor photoshoot is the genuine camaraderie. Unlike the often cold, competitive environment of mainstream fashion, Mitchell has created something that feels like brotherhood. Models (or "Brand Ambassadors" as he calls them) laugh together between takes, girlfriends lounge on couches offering encouragement, and Mitchell himself moves through the space with the easy confidence of someone who has found exactly where he belongs.
The lyrics of Burna Boy's "Location" seem to echo Mitchell's journey. There were moments after leaving Abercrombie when he questioned everything. Starting your own brand isn't easy, especially one built on values rather than just aesthetics.
Those values - faith, brotherhood, and American entrepreneurship - form the foundation of everything Mitch Leyor represents. It's not just about boxer shorts; it's about building a community of young men who support each other.
One girlfriend of a model tells me these shoots are like family gatherings. Mitchell makes everyone feel included. Her boyfriend has made real friendships here that extend beyond just modeling work.
As the day progresses, I watch Mitchell direct his photographer with clear vision while simultaneously ensuring everyone feels valued. The music shifts to another Burna Boy track, and several models break into impromptu dance moves, causing eruptions of laughter.
At Abercrombie, Mitchell was selling an unattainable fantasy. At Mitch Leyor, he's celebrating real men, real values, and real community. That's the location he was always meant to find.
The future looks bright for the brand. Mitchell's plans include expanding beyond boxer shorts soon, and developing The Mitch Leyor Foundation to make the American dream accessible to marginalized communities. This is just the beginning.
As I prepare to leave, Mitchell is already back in the mix - adjusting lighting, checking product details, and most importantly, fostering the sense of brotherhood that makes his brand unique. The festive atmosphere continues unabated, with girlfriends now joining in a group photo, everyone laughing as Burna Boy's voice fills the studio.
For Mitchell Royel, finding his location meant creating a space where business and community thrive together. Like the sentiment in Burna Boy's hit track, he's flying high right now, and showing no signs of coming back down.
-Deck