Antonio Rojas: The Talent Driving Capelle Miami

Antonio Rojas is the visionary behind Capelle Miami, a swimwear brand that refuses to stay in its lane. His designs take you from the pool to the gym but also to Sunday brunch or anywhere in between. Effortless style and comfort. Capelle was born from Antonio’s deep love of fashion, his desire to solve real-life wardrobe challenges, and his passion for creating wearable works of art.

Wearing Capelle is a statement created to disrupt the swimwear industry. 

We sat down with Antonio to find out about his life, dreams, and aspirations. 

 Let's get to it.

We hear 12 is your lucky number. Why?

Twelve has always had a special meaning for me. It represents balance, structure and intention. There are 12 foundational pillars that I believe have shaped my business journey, and I constantly make an effort to develop each one. My first collection launched with 12 shorts that were designed in three groups of four, each reflecting a specific style, personality, or setting. I’m drawn to numbers, symmetry, and strategy, probably because of my background in Finance. But I also love the unexpected (the bold, the different) and 12 gives me the perfect framework to explore both structure and creativity in design.

Why did you start Capelle?

Since I was 17, I knew I wanted to build my own business. By my third year of college, I was already thinking about how I could create something that felt fresh, solved a problem, and added real value. Fashion has always been a form of self-expression for me since I wasn’t the most confident kid growing up, and clothing helped me tell the world who I wanted to be. When I was doing my Master’s in Finance at the University of Miami, I noticed something interesting: my friends were cutting out the uncomfortable inner mesh netting from their $300-400 swim trunks and layering gym compression shorts underneath. It was functional, but not fashionable. That’s when I realized there was a gap in the market. Capelle Miami was born to solve that problem. We created hybrid shorts with built-in compression liners that eliminate chafing, feel incredible, and look elevated. Shorts you can wear to the beach, to the gym, or just out and about. It’s luxury with purpose.

 What do you like doing on the weekends?

Weekends are my time to reset. I love quiet moments by the pool, catching up with friends, and spending time with my sister and nieces. Sundays are sacred for me, and I usually sleep in and fully recharge before the week kicks off again.

 What piece of advice would you give to young entrepreneurs?

Don’t wait until everything is perfect to begin. Start where you are. You’ll learn more by doing than by planning endlessly. My first collection wasn’t perfect, but it taught me everything I needed to know to grow. Most importantly, listen to your customers… they’ll show you the way forward.

 You’re from Venezuela and educated in Miami. How has Venezuela inspired Capelle?

Venezuela taught me resilience. Growing up there wasn’t always easy, but it shaped my work ethic, my perspective and my ability to push through challenges. That spirit of perseverance is deeply embedded in Capelle. Mistakes are part of the journey, but the key is to keep going.

Where is your favorite place to wear Capelle in the world?

Everywhere, to be honest. That’s the beauty of Capelle. I wear it to meetings, events, workouts, beach days… it fits my lifestyle because it was made for it.

 Define style.

Style is self-expression through clothing. It’s how you tell the world who you are, what you love, and how you feel. Fashion is one of the few art forms you live in every day. It has the power to transform your mood, boost your confidence, and connect you with others.

Who was Capelle made for?

Everyone. Capelle is rooted in inclusivity, across sizes, inseam lengths and design styles. Whether you’re bold, classic, athletic, or eclectic, there’s something for you.

Describe growing up in Venezuela in three words.

Tough. Beautiful. Happy.

 What is your favorite Capelle design of all time?

Blue Jungle. That piece will always hold a special place in my heart. It was a creative breakthrough for me.

 If Capelle had a soundtrack, what would the song be?

Adam Port’s remix of “Your Voice” by Caiiro and AWEN. It captures the energy and emotion behind the brand.

Listen on Spotify

What’s your go-to fashion accessory?

Sunglasses. Always. They’re both a style statement and my everyday essential.

 Who is your muse?

Andy Warhol. He was a cultural icon who used his art to make people think and feel. He blurred the lines between creativity and commerce, which I deeply relate to. One of my favorite Warhol quotes is:

“Being good in business is the most fascinating kind of art.”

 On a Sunday we can find you doing what?

Either sleeping in or sipping a Tinto de Verano by the pool. No stress, just stillness.

Words of wisdom for entrepreneurs feeling discouraged? 

Keep going, and don’t hide your work. Share it with the world, even when it’s not perfect.

What’s your biggest weakness?

I can be impulsive and take on too many things at once, which sometimes makes me lose focus on what really matters.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

Be kinder to yourself. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Growth takes time.

Where do you see Capelle in 10 years?

As a globally recognized lifestyle brand that’s leading innovation in fashion while leaving a meaningful cultural impact through our storytelling and designs.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about being a designer?

It’s not as glamorous as it looks. There’s a lot of logistics, late nights, and problem-solving behind the scenes.

If you weren’t a fashion designer, what would you be?

Most likely in investment banking. I’ve always loved numbers and strategy.

Intrigued by Antonio and Capelle Miami? 

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