Hidden Hems

Introduction

Asspizza (Creator: Austin Babbitt) grew up and came from the streets of Queens New York, making streetwear into his own brand and taking brands' clothes and putting his own name on it, giving him his own special category of clothing. A true New York artist shared his designs and drawings online and ended up making it one of the biggest DIY streetwear companies to date taking your favorite t-shirt and making it his own.

Making his Mark in Streetwear

Asspizza was created by Austin Babbitt and Austin takes clothes from other brands such as Supreme, music merch, and Timberland putting his special twist on the brand's items and changing it from the social norm with his dark designs all the way to using the Carl's Jr. star logo for his items. With artists wearing his brand it really helped spark this into the fashion community’s eyes, from people like Kodak Black, to Yung Lean, and even A$AP Rocky. Before music artists were wearing it, fashion icons at the start of the brand such Ian Connor and Luka Sabbat, two big fashion models in 2015 to current day, were spotted wearing the brand on social media sites such as Tumblr and Instagram, making the brand a worldwide brand that it is now. 

Asspizza Meet-Ups NYC

Once Asspizza was in the public eyes, a lot of teenagers gravitated towards the brand for its custom one of one pieces and hand made pieces from the artist, being able to mix it into the culture of skateboarding, music, and fashion all into one. The brand did one of their earlier campaigns with Off-White in 2016, in doing this it got attention from the more luxury fashion consumers and people wanting the brand for its exclusivity and creativeness. Asspizza did a meetup in NYC for the first time on Christmas night and got 1,000+ people to flood the streets and wait in line for his brand while he was selling out of the back of a car at the time. With all the attention the brand was gaining they also scored an Adidas collab making clothes and a shoe for the small New York brand. 

Making Old Clothes Into New 

One huge campaign for the brand was taking vintage shirts and old shirts that the brand hadn't used or sold and made full face masks and tote bags making each piece a one of one giving it the exclusivity aspect to it. While doing this campaign he bought 100s of feet of white denim and had people paint whatever they want on it and then he took the product and made hundreds of pants with the denim and gave each person a one of one pair of jeans that one of the fans possibly created. This makes the consumer have an immersive experience with the brand’s product and having people help make the brand’s clothing as well feeling a part of something. 

Conclusion

This brand has a strong following due to the simple fact of Austin being so involved with his fans and sharing his whole experience with everyone from start to current. Asspizza will keep making handmade pieces and keep repurposing clothing to make his brand move forward.

by Chi Lai

Introduction

The Harrison Wong brand, which emerged from Hong Kong's bustling streets, represents a modern minimalist aesthetic with an urban twist. The label creates designs that are crisp, well-structured, and boldly confident, drawing inspiration from the city's modern architecture and fast-paced way of life. A reflection of Hong Kong's own blend of tradition and innovation, Harrison Wong offers a novel take on menswear and unisex fashion by striking a balance between simplicity and crisp, modern tailoring.

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Minimalism with an Urban Edge

A masterwork of minimalism, Harrison Wong's collections are characterized by precise tailoring, subdued color schemes, and clean silhouettes. The brand offers classic pieces that combine modern edge with elegant simplicity rather than following trends. Harrison Wong's designs feel particularly relevant in a city like Hong Kong, where East and West collide and tradition and modernity clash. They are bold enough to stand out in a crowd while still being sleek enough for the urban professional. Sharp, elegant, and ever-changing, the city skyline is reflected in the label's emphasis on structured cuts and delicate details.

Instagram: Harrison Wong

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A Global Appeal: Minimalism Beyond Borders

Harrison Wong's simple approach appeals to a worldwide clientele and fits in well with both domestic and international fashion sectors as it expands. Professionals who value fine, subtle pieces that go well with any outfit are drawn to the brand's simple, adaptable designs. Its global reach has grown, drawing in fashionistas from all over the world who are looking for classic yet modern pieces that stand out without being overt. Harrison Wong has established a niche for people who appreciate style with a purpose, whether it is in Hong Kong's streets or in global fashion hubs.

Instagram: Sunk7s

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"Modern Monastic": A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Harrison Wong's "Modern Monastic" collection is evidence of his ability to combine modern design features with traditional influences. Wong creates timeless and avant-garde works by reimagining monastic robes through a contemporary viewpoint, drawing inspiration from their austere simplicity. ​

Website: Harrison Wong

The collection is distinguished by its monochromatic color scheme, which primarily consists of dark hues, crisp lines, and structural forms. These components not only honor the austere manner of monastic clothing but also capture Wong's distinctive, subtle yet daring look. Each piece is a statement of modern elegance thanks to creative construction methods, including asymmetrical cutting and inside-out stitching, which give it a modern touch. ​

Instagram: mchueng1201

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Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making

Harrison Wong's dedication to innovation and his minimalist style have cemented the brand's position at the forefront of Hong Kong's fashion industry. With every collection, the company offers timeless and adaptable items that reinvent what it means to combine tradition with modern design. Harrison Wong demonstrates how striking minimalist designs can be for both the fashion-forward individual and the modern professional, from the streets of Hong Kong to international fashion stages.

By Nicholas Pigeon

Introduction

Two of the most interesting brands coming out of Copenhagen right now—Sunflower and Another Aspect—are flipping the script on what “Scandi minimalism” really means. While they definitely lean into clean silhouettes and earthy tones, there’s way more going on beneath the surface. Think intentional design, community-driven branding, and clothes that feel lived in from day one.

Now let's take a closer look at these two brands and how they are shaping this certain aesthetic.

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Sunflower: Simple Pieces, Real People

Sunflower is all about classic menswear—but with a soft edge and modern feel. Launched in 2018, the brand takes a collective, almost club-like approach to fashion. The team behind it isn’t trying to reinvent silhouettes. Instead, they’re focused on making quality essentials that their community, what they call the “Sunflower Society”, can wear and rewear in their own way.

You won’t catch them chasing influencer hype or staging fashion week productions. Their idea of a good show is 400 people packed into their studio, beers in hand. It’s a brand built around real people, and it shows in the clothes. A black sweater is just a black sweater until someone puts their personality into it, and that’s exactly what Sunflower wants.

Their pieces feel effortless but sharp: structured knits, oversized outerwear, relaxed denim, and color palettes that sit somewhere between dusty neutrals and faded utility blues. There’s a calmness to everything they do, but also a lot of heart.

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Another Aspect: Everyday Uniforms, Done Right

Another Aspect keeps things pared back, but with a slightly different approach. The brand doesn’t operate on traditional seasons or trend cycles. Instead, they treat their collection as an ongoing system, refining silhouettes, reworking familiar styles, and quietly building out a tight wardrobe of timeless staples.

They’re not trying to wow you with something new every few months. Instead, it’s about quality and clothes that age with you. Everything’s made in Europe, with a lot of attention to fabric sourcing and long-term wearability.

You can see that philosophy in pieces like their washed blue button-downs, khaki striped shirts, and deep brown knit polos. Nothing screams for attention—but everything feels considered, soft-edged, and designed to last. It’s the kind of brand you turn to when you want to look put together without trying too hard.

Another Aspect has also been popping up in spaces that match their vibe—like where I have seen their products in Colbo NYC —places that care more about community and curation than clout.

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Why These Brands Work

Both Sunflower and Another Aspect are doing minimalism, but with warmth. They don’t just sell clothes, they sell a mood. Or more specifically it’s not about being ahead of the trend cycle, it’s about stepping out of it entirely and building a wardrobe you can grow with.

Sunflower leans a little more romantic and nostalgic like if your favorite vintage jacket brand had a quiet rebrand. Another Aspect on the other hand, is a little more structured and utilitarian like a well-balanced routine you never get tired of.

Introduction

Currently one of the biggest names in the streetwear market is Chrome hearts. 1988 is when the brand was born, local here in LA; it is a punk rock, grunge, & biker brand at heart and over the years tons of celebrities were seen wearing their product all the way from the great musician Cher all the way to the amazing actor from friends Matt LeBlanc. In recent years the brand has had a big resurgence with them making custom pieces for celebrities and high end clients making the product very sought after due to it being a possible one-of-one and just the rarity of the pieces.

Stepping Back Into The Game

During the early years of Chrome Hearts the brand was really on a if you know you know basis. It was first carried in the Maxfield Boutique located in LA giving the brand a real start in the fashion industry. The brand used to always have products available and would not always sell out due to the high retail price point, but in the current day if you try to go to the store on a random day they do not have much store stock at all; you might not even be able to get access to the store when arriving without an appointment. The brand offers the big drops, sought out pieces, and even offers custom one of one pieces to their VIP clientele and celebrities making the brand more hype than ever being on some of the biggest names in the fashion world, such as Travis Scott, Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and Playboi Carti.

Second Hand Market 

Right now if you are able to score a pair of the pants with the original patches it can reach anywhere from 8k-40k just depending on things such as the pant blank, the number of patches, the material of the patches, the placement of the patches, and if it was a general release or a one of one pair. Most of the time people are looking to flip the pieces nowadays and not super into it for the actual artistic vision behind it. For example, the hoodie with the patches and drawings were done by their previous creative director,it retailed for right about 2.2k before taxes n what not and has sold on the second hand market for 17k-20k. Any of those hoodies with the drawings on them are full one of one so it is a one of a kind to whomever owns it.

Still Selling in 2025

Even with the current state of economy the brand still has a full second hand market with people purchasing pieces everyday on apps such as Grailed. Keeping the brand's hype alive and does not seem like it is going to turn off anytime soon. Everyday it seems as if we are getting to see a custom pair and it creates a lot more hype around the clothes giving it a big/cultish following from its fans and a very high demand with very limited runs of product. Even though this is a family run brand and a lot of business happens on the second hand market, they typically ban people from their stores if caught reselling the product, but this also creates a ton of buzz around the brand with all of the exclusivity and allusiveness of it all. 

Conclusion 

With all the buzz and hype around Chrome Hearts they are still rising to the top slowly but surely in the luxury retail and second hand market. It took the brand many years to reach the hype it has at the moment, but it isn't going anywhere anytime soon. All in all the family brand is at its peak at the moment in the luxury fashion and streetwear industry while keeping to the brands true self.

By Chi Lai

Introduction

1997 Shell is a streetwear company based in Hong Kong that was started by local rapper Tiab. It embodies the unadulterated spirit of Hong Kong youth culture following the handover. 1997 Shell employs fashion as a vehicle for social criticism and self-expression, with a rebellious attitude and a strong focus on individuality. The brand is well-known for its grunge-inspired designs, which frequently incorporate striking graphics, shabby textiles, and allusions to Hong Kong's distinct cultural identity. 1997 Shell has developed a cult following through underground activity and limited releases, appealing to people who respect individuality and artistic freedom.

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Hong Kong Youth Culture and Street Influence

The rebellious spirit of Hong Kong's youth has a strong influence on Tiab's creative vision for 1997 Shell. To convey the city's post-colonial tension and changing identity, the brand uses visual elements like dystopian motifs, graffiti-style prints, and unfinished, raw details. In order to create a visual representation of the city's underground scene, They regularly incorporated references to pop culture, Cantonese slang, and nostalgic Hong Kong symbols.

Instagram: 1997s_official

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Raw and Experimental Aesthetic

The brand's design philosophy welcomes flaws, frequently evoking a gritty vibe with frayed edges, distressed textiles, and deconstructed silhouettes. As a tribute to Hong Kong's urban vibrancy, its color scheme primarily consists of earthy, muted tones with splashes of bright red or yellow. Each piece gains character and individuality from the use of hand-finished details and washed-out graphics, which produce a worn-in, vintage look.

Instagram: tiab97s

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1997 Shell: TIAB’s Artistic Expression Through Fashion

Collaboration with Local and Global Artists

1997 Shell frequently collaborates with both local and international creatives, adding depth and diversity to its collections.

1997 Shell x Underground Musicians

The brand collaborates with underground musicians and visual artists, creating limited-edition merch lines that blur the lines between fashion and art.

Instagram: r.w.b.official

Tiab and 1997Shell recently joined the Complexcon Hong Kong 2025, collaborating with Hong Kong most iconic plastic bag company Red White Blue, also known as "紅白藍膠袋" in Chinese. The collaboration also welcomed local Music Artist ProdiG and ByeJack for a Meet and Greet event.

Signature Style and Private Party

In a recent private party hosted in Tsim Sha Tsui, 1997 Shell showcased its latest collection partnered with local boutique Popcorn Store. The event featured performances by rising stars such as Tyson Yoshi, Kayan9896, and Ansonbean, highlighting the brand’s strong ties to the local music scene. The collection included hoodies, baseball caps, and T-shirts adorned with amphibian-inspired graphics, giving it a distinctive street-style edge. The party’s vibrant atmosphere and celebrity attendance underscored 1997 Shell’s growing influence in Hong Kong’s fashion and music culture.

Website: men's uno

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Conclusion: 1997 Shell as a Voice for Hong Kong’s Youth

By Nicholas Pigeon

Introduction

Spain has long been a powerhouse in the world of footwear, known for its impeccable craftsmanship, rich heritage, and innovative designs. While household names like Camper and Balenciaga have made their mark, a new wave of emerging brands is redefining what it means to mix tradition with contemporary style. Among them, Stella Ares and Worldly Studios are two rising stars making a name for themselves in the footwear industry. From elevated everyday sneakers to luxury loafers with a street-style twist, these brands embody quality, authenticity, and a fresh perspective on modern footwear.

Now, let’s take a closer look at these two brands changing the game….

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Stella Ares: Where Comfort Meets Creativity

There’s something special about slipping into a pair of shoes that just feels right—the kind that molds to your feet carries you effortlessly through your day, and looks effortlessly stylish while doing it. That’s exactly what Stella Ares is all about.

This Elche, Spain-born brand isn’t just selling shoes; it’s crafting an experience. Designed and made in Spain, Stella Ares blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design, creating sneakers that feel as good as they look.

More Than Just Shoes—A New Level of Comfort

Ever had a pair of sneakers that looked amazing but felt a little off? Stella Ares has thought of that. Their polyurethane insoles are a game-changer—designed to provide extra cushioning and a perfect fit, so every step is smooth and supported. The best part? They’re removable, so you can customize your comfort depending on your needs. Whether you’re walking through the city all day or just looking for that extra bit of support, these insoles make a noticeable difference.

Proudly Made in Spain, Designed for the World

In an age of mass production, Stella Ares stands out by keeping things local. Each pair is made in Spain, working closely with family-run workshops that have spent decades perfecting their craft. This approach doesn’t just guarantee exceptional quality, it also supports the local economy and promotes sustainable production.

Speaking of sustainability, keeping production local means a smaller carbon footprint and better working conditions for those who make the shoes. So when you wear Stella Ares, you’re not just choosing style and comfort, you’re making an eco-conscious choice.

Authenticity Over Trends

Stella Ares isn’t about chasing fast fashion. These sneakers are timeless, versatile, and built to last. The designs are effortlessly cool, blending classic silhouettes with modern details. They’re the kind of sneakers that work just as well with jeans and a tee as they do with something a little more polished. 

Stepping Into the Stella Ares World and Why You Should Now

"Walk to Creativity" isn't just a slogan—it's a mindset. It’s about embracing originality, valuing quality, and confidently stepping into the world.

Stella Ares is for those who appreciate the mix of tradition and modernity, those who believe style and comfort should go hand in hand.

Being an early supporter of a brand like Stella Ares means you’re ahead of the curve. Right now, the brand is still in its underground phase, that sweet spot where only a handful of people know about it, but those who do, really know. These are the sneakers that’ll have people stopping you on the street, asking, “Where’d you get those?”

With luxury craftsmanship and a made-in-Spain heritage, Stella Ares is quietly making moves. And if you’ve ever wanted to be part of something before it blows up, this is your chance.

Because let’s be real—when Stella Ares hits its stride, those 530 followers are going to look like nothing compared to where this brand is headed. 

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Worldly Studios: Emphasizing Luxury Streetstyle 

If you haven’t heard of Worldly Studios yet, now’s the time to get familiar. With just 6,768 followers, this brand is quietly redefining luxury footwear, and it won’t stay under the radar for long. Founded by two friends with a shared vision, Worldly Studios is more than just a shoe brand, it’s a lifestyle, and effortlessly cool. That’s what makes Worldly Studios different: their shoes don’t just look good, they feel like an extension of you.

More Than Just a Shoe—It’s an Attitude

Worldly Studios isn’t just about selling shoes; they’re about curating a specific energy—one that mixes classic European sophistication with an effortlessly cool, street-style influence. Their campaign images tell the story: polished loafers paired with baggy trousers, varsity jackets, and relaxed tailoring. It’s a perfect fusion of vintage and contemporary, making their shoes wearable for almost any occasion.

The New Standard in Loafers

Right now, they’re in the early stages of their rise, but the pieces are all there for this brand to explode. The combination of high-end craftsmanship, unique branding, and an engaged niche audience means it’s only a matter of time before their loafers start popping up everywhere—from Instagram mood boards to the feet of tastemakers worldwide.

If you’re looking for a brand that’s still exclusive but won’t stay that way for long, Worldly Studios is your move. Because true style isn’t about following trends, it’s about setting them.

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Conclusion

By Ethan Gonzales 

Introduction

New York has always been a melting pot for millions of people and what comes along with these people is all types of different styles, trends, and culture. A huge part of New York’s fashion history stems from skateboarding culture and how each individual brings their own style to the table. Most recently, we have some smaller skateboarding companies coming into the New York scene and making a big impact on core skaters with that feeling of a niche brand and making an impact as an up and coming company. The two brands we are talking about today, started in the last couple of years, the first one being Starteam Eastvillage (Starteam for short) and Settings (Atticus Torre). Both of these brands focus on skateboarding culture while being able intertwin a streetwear aesthetic and both brands work very closely together and reach the same audience while having two different styles and making them mesh together. 

New York Skateboarding and Fashion Scene Keeping it Alive

Some of the biggest fashion/streetwear companies emerge from New York and in the more recent years have become more relevant than ever to our younger generation. The problem we are seeing is mass production with the feelings of, laziness, lack of style, and no care for the actual production being made; not to say brands aren’t putting out quality product, it’s just the feeling of lack of care to the graphic, silhouette, or whatever garment it may be. This week we are going to be focusing on the New York based brands Starteam and Settings. 

The New Generation of Fashion, Skateboarding and Art in New York

When we think of the New York fashion scene we think of a couple things that go hand in hand which are, Skateboarding, Streetwear, and Art. Right around 2020 it felt like we lost core companies due to lack of any social events and trying to keep an online presence was very hard to do, because of not being able to produce as much in 2020. These two companies are both run by the owners and the help of their friends, it really gives a raw feeling to the brands as not everything is perfect, but it works for them. Settings by Atticus Torre, makes clothes, hats, and bags, with airbrush painting on each piece done by hand and no two pieces are alike when he airbrushes. All of these airbrush garments are sourced from places like antique stores, estate sales, and thrift stores all usually sourced in New York unless he is traveling and able to source from places wherever he may be. He does live events where he will have his airbrush set up and paint on pieces personally right in front of you while selling his own pieces as well, this creates a love for fashion and art all mixed into one, making the consumer more present and excited to see what they receive. Starteam does all hand sewing and embroidery for their pieces, the pieces they use are usually manufactured in China. They also always try to have events with other brands and just even by themselves such as, skateboarding contests, pop up stores, and food drives for the community. They also do small collaborations with small artists from places such as Japan, New York, and California, in doing this the brands collaborate to try to capture a different audience and help Starteam keep that ‘Mom & Pop’ feeling to the skate company and local community.

Settings, by Atticus Torre: Untitled Collection. 2024

Settings focuses on repurposing old clothing and giving them life again with painting a character on the piece or adding patches by hand and sourcing all of the pieces from thrift stores, antique stores, and while traveling looking for vintage patches. This type of product benefits the consumer and artist by being eco friendly and reusing these pieces that people might have considered trash and giving them new life while remaining true to that grungy New York skater feeling. 

Starteam East Village: Untitled collection. 2025

Starteam focuses on a more skater, oversized fit type style while being sometimes flashy and colorful. A big focus for them is the denim they make with the different styles, to the big star embroidered on the back people love them.

Conclusion: How These Two Brands are Staying True to New York’s Art and Skateboarding Fashion Scene.

The two brands are both run solo by just the owners Kyoto Umeki (Starteam East Village)  and Atticus Torre (Settings), not a corporation, still giving it the raw feeling of a New York based company. They are both focusing on a more skater aesthetic while still having pieces that are artistic and fashionable to current times and trends. Supporting these companies is taking away from mass productions and fast fashion brands that are so prominent in current trends. Settings and Starteam both are trying to pave a way for future artists and skateboarders that enjoy trendy clothing while keeping a core feeling to the companies.

Introduction

GrowthRing & Supply (GRS), founded by Kenji Wong, is a Hong Kong-based brand that seamlessly blends vintage aesthetics, automotive culture, and contemporary fashion. Over the past decade, GRS has evolved from a creative advertising unit into a globally recognized fashion brand with a focus on storytelling and cultural preservation. Drawing inspiration from Wong's deep passion for vintage cars, GRS incorporates the philosophy of "imperfection as beauty," infusing its designs with a sense of nostalgia, authenticity, and timelessness. By reinterpreting Hong Kong's unique mixed-culture identity and integrating elements of Japanese craftsmanship, GRS not only celebrates the past but also redefines the value of "Made in Hong Kong" in the ever-changing world of fashion.

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Hong Kong unique mixed culture with Japanese culture inspiration

The philosophy of "wabi-sabi," which emphasizes the beauty of imperfection and the passing of time, is one of the main sources of inspiration for Kenji Wong.  This idea has a big impact on the brand's designs, which embrace materials like brass, leather, and denim because of their capacity to age and acquire distinctive textures over time.  Kenji incorporates famous local features like Kowloon Walled City and Tiger Balm Garden into his works, fusing this Japanese aesthetic with Hong Kong's rich cultural legacy.  GrowthRing & Supply creates designs that are both nostalgic and contemporary by fusing these two cultures, showcasing a tasteful blend of Hong Kong's dynamic, multidimensional identity with Japanese minimalism.

Instagram: kenjiwong

Revitalizing Heritage: GrowthRing & Supply's Influence on Hong Kong Fashion Culture

The brand captures the essence of Hong Kong's heritage while innovating with unique motifs, such as the iconic "Kowloon" logo, which resonates deeply with the city's identity. By incorporating Asian-inspired features and collaborating with various artists, GRS revitalizes nostalgic aesthetics and fosters cross-cultural exchanges, positioning itself as a pivotal force in shaping a modern yet culturally rich Hong Kong fashion scene.

Instagram: growthringsupply

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Vintage Washed Aesthetic

GrowthRing & Supply's design philosophy is known as the Vintage Washed Aesthetic, which is defined by a conscious embrace of soft, faded fabrics, worn-in textures, and color palettes that evoke nostalgia while also emphasizing sustainable practices and producing timeless silhouettes that combine traditional styles with modern flair.

Website: GrowthRing & Supply Co.

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Collaboration with Local and universal communities

In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, GrowthRing & Supply (GRS) actively participates in partnerships that respect regional traditions as well as international fashions, encouraging a vibrant cross-cultural dialogue.

GRS x CASETiFY

In collaboration with CASETiFY, GRS unveiled a line of retro-inspired tech accessories that included the Hand Quilted Cap, Faded "Kowloon" Tee, and Embroidered Case, all of which mirrored the brand's iconic double-faced Sukajan jacket design.

Website: GRS x CASETiFY

GRS x 59TATTOO Capsule Collection

To combine traditional Hong Kong tattoo art with modern fashion, GRS collaborated with tattoo artist Marcus Yuen of 59TATTOO to create a capsule collection that features the Dragon In Clouds Overprint Shirt and the Dragon Phoenix Overprint Shirt.

Instagram: 59tattoo

GRS x Triplet.world

GRS worked with Triplet.world to curate a range of lifestyle items, highlighting quality and functionality by fusing their own brand's clothing, furniture, and accessories with vintage items from around the world.

Instagram: triplet.world

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Conclusion: GrowthRing & Supply's Influence on the Future of Fashion

By skillfully fusing traditional cultural elements with modern design, GrowthRing & Supply (GRS) exemplifies Hong Kong's changing fashion industry and establishes itself as a major player in determining the city's fashion scene.  In addition to preserving Hong Kong's rich legacy, GRS advances it into contemporary fashion discussions through partnerships with international companies and regional artists, highlighting the city's distinct position at the nexus of innovation and tradition. 

by Nicholas Pigeon

Introduction Los Angeles has long been synonymous with denim, from its roots in rugged workwear to its evolution into high-end streetwear and contemporary fashion. In recent years, a new wave of small-batch denim brands has emerged, challenging mass production with a focus on attention to detail, sustainability, and unique storytelling. This week, we’re exploring three standout LA-based brands—MOTH COLLECTIVE, Yuremane, and Lawcinto—that are redefining what denim can be in the modern fashion landscape. 

The Rise of LA’s Small-Batch Denim Scene

Los Angeles has long been a global center for denim production, home to some of the biggest names in fashion. However, as the industry shifts away from mass production, small-scale brands are gaining traction by prioritizing quality over quantity. These designers focus on sourcing premium materials, reviving traditional techniques, and embracing sustainability. Companies like Global Denim, which recently opened a showroom in LA’s Arts District, lead eco-friendly sourcing. At the same time, Turnkey Patterns provides emerging designers with essential resources for pattern making and garment production, helping to bring small-batch collections to life.

The resurgence of workwear aesthetics, Japanese selvedge denim influences, and experimental silhouettes have fueled this movement. Many of these brands embrace a DIY ethos, producing limited-run collections with meticulous attention to detail. By staying true to their artistic roots, they appeal to creatives who see fashion as an extension of their identity.

Now, let’s take a closer look at three rising brands making an impact in LA’s denim scene.

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MOTH COLLECTIVE: Raw Craftsmanship Meets Utility

Aesthetic: Minimalist, raw, and workwear-inspired. MOTH COLLECTIVE blends Japanese selvedge denim traditions with a distinctly LA edge, producing durable, understated silhouettes designed for everyday wear. Their signature wide-leg and relaxed-fit jeans, called “The River Pant,” draw inspiration from vintage workwear, reimagined for a modern audience. Every piece is made-to-order in Los Angeles, featuring hand-finished details and sustainable fabric sourcing.

MOTH COLLECTIVE is for those who appreciate the beauty of raw denim—allowing each pair to evolve and develop unique fades over time.

Instagram: mothcollectiv

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YUREMANE: A Narrative-Driven Approach to Denim

Aesthetic: Avant-garde, deconstructed, and deeply personal. Yuremane approaches denim as an artistic medium, merging fashion with storytelling. Their collections often feature experimental cuts and unique finishes that challenge traditional denim norms. Drawing from transcultural influences, Yuremane pieces feel like wearable narratives—each one telling a story through texture and form.

For those who see denim as more than just clothing, Yuremane offers a deeply personal and expressive take on fashion.

Instagram: yuremane

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LAWCINTO: Western Roots with a Contemporary Twist

Aesthetic: Western-inspired, bold, and structured. Lawcinto reinvents classic Americana with modern proportions, crafting denim that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Inspired by cowboy aesthetics, vintage rodeowear, and LA’s desert landscapes, the brand plays with oversized silhouettes and rugged textures. Think high-waisted, extra-wide-leg jeans paired with structured tops and vests.

Lawcinto speaks to those who embrace the intersection of heritage and contemporary fashion—where the old West meets LA’s modern streetwear sensibility.

Instagram: lawcinto

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Conclusion: How These Brands Reflect the Future of LA Denim

These brands are not corporate denim giants; they feel grassroots, independent, and deeply tied to LA’s underground creative scene. Their aesthetics reflect the city’s mix of subcultures: vintage collectors, skaters, artists, musicians, and cowboy-meets-streetwear enthusiasts.

As the industry moves toward more sustainable, independent, and creative denim brands, Moth Collective, Yuremane, and Lawcinto show where LA denim is headed:

A rejection of mass-market, overproduced jeans in favor of intentional, small-batch production.

A blend of heritage and experimentation, proving denim isn’t just for workwear—it can be artistic, bold, and fashion-forward.

An embrace of oversized, non-traditional cuts, moving away from restrictive skinny jeans toward flowy, expressive silhouettes.

These brands are shaping the next chapter of LA denim, one that honors the city's past while carving out a bold, independent future.

Stay tuned for our next feature, where we’ll explore another region’s emerging fashion scene.