May The Force Be With You

The Yoda of Streetwear, NIGO, has wielded his Jedi fashion skills to somehow conjure up a mind-blowing collaboration with none other than the brand that inspired him: Nike.

As many of you may know, the acclaimed Japanese designer is the founder of A BATHING APE, renowned for its iconic Bapesta, which bears a striking resemblance to Nike’s Air force 1. Due to the notoriety of this shoe, the major American Sportswear company eventually sued BAPE. Fortunately, by the time Nike took legal action in 2023 NIGO had already sold his brainchild brand to I.T, a Hong Kong-based fashion conglomerate. Fast forward to now, and we see the supposed “villain” evolving into a worthy accomplice for Nike as they relaunch the Air Force 3 Low.

Entitled “Escape Force,” NIGO and Nike’s inaugural Air force 3 collection consists of two sneaker colorways ($160 each) and a variety of apparel including crewnecks ($160), T-shirts ($70) and varsity jackets ($650).

Check out the trailer for the revamped Air Force 3 collection below:

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The NIGO x Nike Air Force 3 and apparel collection will be available starting September 28th on the Human Made website, at Otsumo Plaza in Tokyo, and at the “I KNOW NIGO TOO” pop-up in NYC. The global release is scheduled for October 4th on SNKRSand at select retailers.

I may be present at the spot in SoHo, who knows?

Birds Don't Sing

“The birds don’t sing, the birds don’t sing, they screech in paaaiiin,” Aww man, I know I’m not the only one who can’t stop listening to the unreleased Clipse scorcher featuring John Legend.

Premiered during Pharrell Williams’ Spring/Summer 2025 Men’s runway show for Louis Vuitton, the beautiful yet somber track finds Pusha T and his beloved brother Malice intricately rap about their parents death. Its official title, “Birds Don’t Sing,” derives from Maya Angelou’s book, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings. The orchestra-filled single is a far cry from the group’s drug-infused lyrics and I’m truly here for it. 

“We went through all the ‘cocaine rap’ complaints, the stigma of, ‘All they talk about is coke,'” said Malice in a recent interview. “You get tired of it. Then you realize the people who only look at it that way aren’t even listening to the music correctly.”

Huge love to Push and Malice, man.  They are undeniably two of the nicest individuals I’ve ever come across during my years at NIGO’s former NYC workshop.

“Birds Don’t Sing,” is said to be off the brothers’ upcoming album. Shii, I just hope they drop the complete project sooner than later. For now, enjoy the Skateboard P-produced banger below:

BAPE Invades China

Damn, it honestly feels like I’m working at BAPE again; this is the second article I’ve written about the iconic streetwear brand in less than two weeks *Laughs*.

Admittedly, I’m a bit disappointed that NIGO officially left his brainchild back in 2013. The consensus seems to be that BAPE has lost some of its luster (Get it? Since the shoes are patent leather?...nevermind) since the former Ape General’s departure. However, BAPE’s new owner, Hong Kong fashion conglomerate I.T Group, have been making some commendable moves, proving that their acquired label still has global appeal.

Earlier this month, A BATHING APE debuted its first runway showcase in China, gracing Shanghai with a striking introduction of the 2024 Fall/Winter collection. Highlighting its respective sub-brands: AAPE, BAPE BLACK, BAPY, APEE, and MR. BATHING APE. This marks the brand’s third show. It would have been dope if they had one while I was there—just imagine your boy shutting down the fashion show with an exclusive shark hoodie on though!

Peep the full runway show below:

Gold Grillz & Cowboy Hats

As we all patiently await for Pharrell Williams’ fashion show of his forthcoming Louis Vuitton collection, renowned French documentary filmmaker and Fashion journalist Loic Prigent took it upon himself to release his exclusive backstage footage of Skateboard P’s LV Autumn/Winter 2024-2025 spectacle.

In it, Loic candidly chops it up with the Louis Vuitton team as they explain the collection’s cowboy aesthetic.  He even highlights the models who graced the blazing catwalk (shoutout to the boy, Cam Hicks).  Shiii, I was so inspired by the show I had my own Yeehaw! moment:

Check out Loic’s captivating BTS clip below (oh, and make sure you turn the captions on):

A Match Made In Heaven

It’s a Jacquemus summer at the Four Seasons! Simon Porte Jacquemus’ eponymous label has joined forces with the colossal resorts and hotels company to deliver its first store in North America.

Located at Oceans Club Bahamas resort, the Jacquemus boutique will open as a pop-up which will carry “Only At Four Seasons” towels to commemorate the momentous occasion. The Oceans Club’s “Carlo” shop even transformed its aesthetic to provide a one-of-a kind French Riviera shopping experience. 

Featuring collections from the luxurious fashion line’s Spring/Summer Ready-To-Wear collection for men and women, the partnership with Four Seasons sees the experience extend to The Ocean Club Resort’s iconic Versailles and Ocean Pools. Jacquemus has designed specific fabrics for the loungers, accent pillows, sunshades and pool toys, all of which are printed with a hand-painted stripe pattern that sees combinations of black/white, blue/white, yellow/white, and red/white.

Want to take part in the Four Seasons x Jacquemus extravaganza at the Four Seasons Bahamas resort? You can book online between June 7 and July 31 here.

BAPE Lands In Chi-Town

It’s been almost 10 years since I left NIGO’s former SoHo workshop, yet everywhere I go, I’m still recognized as “Mr. BAPE.” I’m not going to hold you, the love feels amazing because it proves that my time at the shop wasn’t in vain. The fact that I can touch so many people’s lives (pause) by simply being myself is truly a gift from the Creator.  Speaking of gifts, the iconic Japanese streetwear brand has blessed staunch BAPE heads all over Chicago with their very own flagship store!

Located at 113 E Oak Street, BAPE’s first Chicago store welcomes shoppers from Mondays to Saturdays between 10am - 7pm and Sundays between Noon - 5pm. Just like BAPE in New York, the Chicago shop will have its own camo.  The brand recruited none other than Chi-City’s don himself, Don C, as the current star of the Chicago camo campaign. Products from the line include signature pieces like hoodies, tees and trinkets in the blue and red colors of the Chicago flag and features the BAPE theater sign graphic as an ode to the theater’s infamous theater signage. 

As part of the BAPE Chicago store opening, the brand will also collaborate with local creatives to celebrate their contributions to the community. Check out some flashy flicks from the new shop below:

While you’re at it, click the pic below to purchase items from my OMO merch collection:

Yeah, That's My Dawg

Before his death in 1786, the late military leader Frederick The Great stated, “the only, absolute and best friend a man has, in this selfish world, the only one that will not betray or deny him, is his dog.” Those incredibly earnest words have echoed throughout history and still remain relevant til this day in an even simpler form: “a dog is a man’s best friend.”  Well, Pharrell Williams’ Spring/Summer 2025 Men’s Pre-collection with Louis Vuitton is offering doggy lovers worldwide a new and stylish method of strengthening the bond with their four-legged pals.

The DOG LVRS collection lookbook showcases “dandy dog walkers” (that’s what the luxury French fashion house call them) in swaggy LV garbs with their fresh pooches (R.I.P to Cudi’s dog, Freshie). So many incredible threads are featured including tailored shorts, fluffy kicks patterned with Dalmatian dots, Canadian tuxedos, dog crest shirting, loafers with bone-charm collar detailing, a double-dog portrait silk souvenir jacket, dog portrait bandanas, LV-branded leather jackets, relaxed tracksuits, hoodies and wool trench coats. What made this spectacle even more special are the dogs accessories—most noticeably a Louis Vuitton monogram-covered dog house with gold trims!

Check out some of my favorite looks below:

Get ready to break the piggy bank for these treats. But then again, our furry little friends are worth every dollar. The DOG LVRS collection is scheduled to drop in-store later this year.

Best of Both Worlds

“Best of both worlds, ohhhh” My fault, I got a little carried away there with my singing. As I was trying to conjure up a title for this Vans x Proenza Schouler piece, Jay Z and R Kelly’s 2002 banger “Best of Both Worlds,” came to mind simply because their latest footwear offering—like the song—is a fire blend of two distinctive genres.

The New York City-based luxury womenswear brand and Vans took it upon themselves to create a sleek and elevated iteration of the iconic ‘70s classic Slip-On.  Featuring exaggerated proportions in buttery leather, the Puffy Slip-On (no diddy…sorry, I had to) come in three conservative colorways which include Black, Ecru and Resin.

In addition to its premium calfskin leather uppers, the Vans x Proenza Schouler Puffy Slip-On has a custom Proenza Schouler footbed, oversized heel scab, and polished glossed sidewalls. Furthermore, Vans’ infamous skateboarding symbol is etched into the signature rear blocks.

The sumptuous skate slip-ons are available to shop now via the Proenza Schouler online store and OTW by Vans for $200. Good luck!

Reese Channels His Inner Cam'ron

If for whatever reason legendary rapper Cam’ron stumbled upon this article, he’d probably think its title was somewhat pause-worthy. I can imagine him now saying in his potent Uptown accent : “wow—inner is wild.” Hopefully the header would intrigue him enough to fully dive into the write-up and eventually realize the caption was perfect for the situation at hand (...that was kinda crazy, ngl).

Earlier this month, ATL Rapper/Producer Reese LaFlare released a single commemorating the Harlem Diplomat entitled, “Pink Range Rover.” Featuring Foggie Raw and PM FRVR, the joint is inspired by Cam’s 2002 Billboard hit, “Hey Ma.” Its music video depicts Reese and his comrades talking their sh*t while remaining fresher than ever.

LaFlare’s Rated R Superstar LP is coming soon. For now, check out the visual for his Slade Da Monsta-produced tune below:

Tyshawn Jones Is A Certified Stepper

Skateboarding sensation Tyshawn Jones is getting ready to release his second signature shoe with Adidas, aptly titled The Tyshawn II.

The two time Thrasher Skater of the Year winner released his first kicks with the global sportswear brand back in June 2019. And just two years later, a low-top iteration (Tyshawn Lows) came out. Now, Jones is taking his tre flips to new heights with the forthcoming collaboration.

Combining Ty’s unique style and Adidas iconic branding, the Tyshawn II features a low-cut leather upper, including dual-layered panels and perforations at the forefoot for durability and breathability. The campaign flicks of the shoe display a white-based colorway with black accents as well as an all-black version.

If you weren’t aware, Tyshawn is signed to Steven Victor’s sports management company. Victor’s (a fellow Haitian, I might add) other notable client is current WBA lightweight champion of the world, Gervonta “Tank” Davis.  Jones’ incredible skating prowess was on full display last year in a viral video which showcased him doing an ollie over Steven Victor’s $5 million Ferrari Monza SP2 supercar (talk about great marketing, right?).

The Adidas Tyshawn II ($100) will be released on June 1.

A Boogie Caught A "Body"

The Bronx’s lyrical bomber A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie recently linked up with fellow boogie down artist Cash Cobain to deliver a wavy new tune in the form of “Body.”

Its accompanying music video, directed by Phil Meyer, mirrors the song’s chill-yet-tantalizing vibes showcasing the two artists on a poppin’ night in NYC, which ultimately leads up to them longing for a sensual one-on-one sesh with a special shorty. 

“Body” is found on A Boogie’s latest album Better Off Alone. Released earlier this month, the star-studded project features Mariah The Scientist, Fridayy, Future, Lil Durk, and Young Thug, in addition to the aforementioned collab, across 21 tracks.

Shout out to my guy Dave and his partner-in-crime Vince of 4G for styling A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie with the Chrome Hearts drip which is seen throughout the visual. If you haven’t done so, check out my interview with him HERE.

Twin, Where Have You Been?

Aimé Leon Dore has released the latest installment of its fashion film entitled “Doublemint.” Directed by Aristidis and Antonia Apostolopoulous, the three-part visual series features an array of ALD’s Spring/Summer 2024 threads and outstanding collaborative pieces.

The final cinematic adventure, starring the homies Khorey & Torey Mcdonald, highlights Aimé Leon Dore’s luxurious luggage line with none other than Rimowa. The LVMH-owned German baggage brand is known for its rich history of blockbuster partnerships and this one is no different!

Teddy Santis’ brainchild and Rimowa’s two-piece collection consists of the RIMOWA x AIMÉ LEON DORE Chest and the RIMOWA x AIMÉ LEON DORE Cabin. For those not in the know of airline lingo, Cabin bags are considered carry-ons and Chest bags are the bigger ones you check in with me at the counter of  *coughs* your favorite airline *coughs*. The handcrafted, Germany-made pieces take on Aimé Leon Dore’s signature green shade. Furthermore, other details include TSA-approved locks, flex dividers, brown leather-made handles, and gold-plated hardware. In the gut of the trunks you’ll find a print showcasing an assortment of ancient Greek stamps originated by ALD that is applied to a nylon-lined interior.

Landing on (saw what I did there?) on May 31st, the Rimowa x Aimé Leon Dore Cabin will retail for $2,670, and the Rimowa x Aimé Leon Dore Chest for $3,880. 

Bon voyage!

OMO III: Safe Haven

It is my absolute honor to present the third and final installment from my On My Own merch series. This exclusive piece takes shape in the form of an organic french terry pullover hoodie, which features my freshly dressed animated character and the infamous BAPE couch that was on my “second floor office” at Nigo’s former SoHo workshop. 

Since a picture is worth a thousand words, the hoodie’s artwork is self-explanatory to the thousands of patrons who have visited me during my time at the iconic BAPE store on Green Street. A ‘Safe Haven’ is defined as a place where someone goes to be safe from danger or attack.  It would be extreme of me to say the individuals that specifically came upstairs to see me were looking for refuge.  However, I must admit they always felt much more at ease after our intimate conversations. 

There’s truly nothing better in the world than inspiring someone to be their highest, happiest self. I feel blessed to have played a small role in the lives of individuals who have felt touched by my words or simple acts of kindness. I love y’all.

Shop HERE.

The Big Red Boot

Who needs red bottoms when one can have the whole…damn…thang dipped in it?  Thanks to MSCHF [pronounced Mischief] shoe enthusiasts all over the globe can come together in hopes of copping a pair of kicks that’ll make them feel like BIG STEPPERS (no Kendrick) in their respective hoods.

Simply coined, “Big Red Boot,” the Brooklyn-based art collective’s latest cheeky product looks like something your favorite fictional cartoon character would rock. In fact, they’re the real life version of Astro Boy’s shoe of choice and Dora The Explorer’s sidekick, Boots, well…red boots.

The embellished footwear, retailed for $350 USD, features a TPU rubber shell and EVA sole unit. They will be made available on February 16th at 11am Eastern Time via MSCHF.com and the MSCHF app.  

Damn, too bad these joints aren’t dropping on Valentine’s Day. I bet y’all had some sentimental bars like: “this year, I finally got you some shoes that are as huge as your heart,” in the tuck.

Air Biggie

“It was all a dream, I used to read Word Up! Magazine/ Now I’m dunking on n*ggaz in my Air Jordan Thirteens!”. Alright, alright those are not the actual lyrics from Biggie Smalls’ legendary single “Juicy,” but if the late rapper was alive today, he damn sure would have a remix with similar bars as a nod to Jordan Brand’s latest endeavor.

I ain’t stutter! The Beaverton, Oregon label has collaborated with Sotheby’s to curate a one-of-a-kind auction for 23 exclusive pairs (I see what they did there) of Christopher Wallace aka Notorious B.I.G x Air Jordan 13s. Originally conceptualized in 2017 as a tribute to Biggie’s 45th birthday, the kicks have returned to celebrate Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary and the notion of Self-Belief.

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Notable designs of the kicks include both tongues that feature an outline of B.I.G’s iconic face, while the inside of them reads his infamous lines “It was all a dream” and “if you don’t know now you know” (I know what you said in your mind after that).  Furthermore, the insoles are embossed with black and red plaid patterns, and are branded with “Notorious B.” on the heels. Last but certainly not least, Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation hang tags are found, and the haglets are rightfully adorned with the words “dream” in red font.

Bidding for the 23 pairs of Notorious B.I.G x Air Jordan 13s begin at a whopping $1 USD at Sotheby’s website here through February 3rd. 100% of the proceeds will go towards the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation whose main course of action is empowering inner city-youth through mentorship programs, grants, scholarship and educational tools.

Bode's Bold Move

Don’t front, the very first time you saw the fashion label Bode (BOH-dee), you mistakenly pronounced it: “Boa-uhd” or even “Ba-deeh” {why did I suddenly think of Amaarae’s viral TikTok song}. No? I guess it’s just me then.  In any case, the booming brand—known for its intricate garments inspired by vintage pieces and antiques—is finally delving into the womenswear matrix.

Founded in 2016 by world-renowned designer Emily Adams Bode Aujla, Bode will showcase its inaugural women’s collection at its Paris menswear show on January 21. The American luxury line’s striking men silhouettes are mostly made from domestic textiles crafted by women already, so the transition will be smoother than Tony Hawk’s first 900 landing on a vert ramp.  

The forthcoming collection, titled “The Crane Estate,” takes cues from Emily’s mother's hometown of Massachusetts (1970s Massachusetts, to be exact). It will feature skirts, dresses, lingerie and silk tops.

Golf Wang in NYC

Tyler, The Creator has officially announced that his precious brainchild of a clothing brand Golf Wang will be opening its second brick-and-mortar store in none other than the Big Apple.

Located at 35 Howard Street (damn, RIP to Opening Ceremony that was on the same strip), the new shop will contain the line’s Fall/Winter 2022 collection which includes the Golf Wang x Jeff Hamilton vegan leather jacket, honoring the NYC store’s November 12th grand opening. 

Golf Wang’s first storefront is located on Fairfax in Los Angeles, just a few steps away from the Supreme store. If you aren’t familiar, T’s brand focuses on tailored Americana staples, dope embroideries and eccentric prints. The most recent collection feature takes on wools, flannels, mohair and fur. 

It feels like yesterday when a bright-eyed Tyler walked into BAPE for the first time alongside Plain Pat and a few other music execs. The now Grammy winning multi-hyphenate was so astounded by a pair of Crapestas, he just started swearing profusely out of nowhere. I wonder what his younger self would think about him now having his very own store just a few blocks away. Minblowed, to say the least. 

Like most shops in the surrounding SoHo area, Golf Wang’s operating hours will be Monday - Saturday: 11am - 7pm and Sunday: 12pm - 6pm. I’ll definitely have to check it out—see you there!

Up Up and Away

“All good things must come to an end.” This old adage directly applies to Pharrell Williams and his whimsical jewelry. Yup, you heard me! The celebrated musician/philanthropist has decided to part ways with the OG trinkets that helped catapult his ascension into Style-God status by creating an intricate auction house coined, JOOPITER.

The selling platform’s moniker is inspired by the planet Jupiter, due to its astronomical connotation of luck, success and generosity.

“Spiritually it’s a very rich experience, an enlightening experience, to let… stories go,” says Pharrell when discussing the significance of detachment to FT.com.

JOOPITER’s first capsule—rightfully titled ‘Son of A Pharaoh’—includes 52 of Skateboard P’s outlandish pieces such as his 18k gold blackberry, legendary Jacob & Co N.E.R.D Brain pendant chain, Casio G-Shock x BAPE gold and diamond DW6900 watch, a Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk in “Black/Multicolor” monogram, and many more.

Pharrell’s inaugural ‘Son of a Pharaoh’ auction closed on November 1st and it has reported a whopping total of $5.25 million USD in sales. The items sold from $2.184 million USD all the way down to $150,000 USD (I mean, that’s not low but you get what I’m saying). Talk about someone’s “trash” being another person’s treasure, right?

Proceeds from JOOPITER’s initial offering will go towards advancing Black Ambition’s work to benefit Black and Latinx entrepreneurs.

OMO II: The Hero's Journey

I am extremely happy to present the second installment of my #OMOFrendy T-shirt series titled, On My Own II: The Hero’s Journey.

The meaning behind the top’s name signifies the return to the source of all things: one’s self. It is said that the longest journey a person will ever take is the one 18 inches from their head to their heart.  The T-shirt serves as a reminder that nothing worthwhile can be achieved in life if we keep looking outside of ourselves for validation.

“If all is in my heart and mind, then I can do it on my own” - Frendy Lemorin

The T-shirt is scheduled to drop on Saturday June 4th, 2022. Click here to shop!

Star Trak x Hidden NY

N.E.R.D’s “In search of…” album has had a profound impact on many of today’s thriving millennial artists. This year it turns 20, and to celebrate, the triumphant trio alongside Star Trak Entertainment has teamed up with Hidden NY.

“What could they have possibly conjured up?” you might ask.  Well, wait till you get a load of this.  The legendary funk rock band and record label collided with Hidden NY to create a nostalgic capsule consisting of co-branded hoodies, shirts, hats, totes and mesh shorts just in time for the summer.  Furthermore, the popular archival streetwear brand account reimagined N.E.R.D’s historic debut album cover art featuring none other than Shae Haley. In this iteration, Shae is wearing standout threads from the collaborative collection. Shout out to photographer Sam Hayes!

The pieces were initially available to subscribers of Hidden’s newsletter on June 15th, with general release on June 16th via its website. Hopefully you were able to cop something!