There is something that I really like.
It is kind of cool.
Cool, not because I like it, but because it is ‘out there.’
I am not sure what city you live in.
You may even live in the country.
(Btw, if you do, way to go.)
But whether it is the city you live in or a city you have visited, there is usually one store.
One store whose fashion, style, and design speaks that city.
The store is almost essential to that city.
It is a ‘fixture.’
Like it captures everything about that city.
Mood.
Spirit.
Culture.
History.
Future.
Style.
Man, I could go on and on.
If you wore something from that store in another city, that city would know it was from that city.
I think there is a simple reason how this style is created.
The designer is a ‘local.’
Born, raised, and still living in that city.
She/he knows how the city works.
What its citizens wear.
What its citizens are looking for.
Most importantly, the designer loves their city.
Could be, and most likely a bit of a celebrity.
New styles are rolled out as the city progresses.
New styles are rolled out to capture its past.
New styles are rolled out to capture its present.
Rolls out ahead of what its citizens think they want.
Gives it to them without them ever knowing that they even wanted it.
Angelo Basque.
His company is called AWAKE.
A true New Yorker.
Born in Queens.
All about diversity and incorporating the Five Boroughs of his native New York.
He used to be the Brand Director at Supreme.
He captures New York perfectly in his designs.
It is not hard to see.
https://awakenyclothing.com/blogs/features/tagged/lookbooks
His company is called AWAKE.
He designs incredible styles.
He has done and continues to do collaborations with the most talented designers.
Perfect matches.
Great ‘collabs.’
I will not direct you towards a specific item.
It is kind of hard.
There are just so many good ones.
I would start with ‘shirts,’ and then make your move from there.
Have fun and,
‘Rise and Shine’
Insert rising sun emoji here.
‘Wear it OUT’