This is an incredible interview with one of the most important designers that many of you outside of the U.S. may have never heard of, Dapper Dan. In fact, many outside of New York may not be aware that this cat revolutionized the way many celebrated rappers (and their fans) dressed “back in the day”. Peep game.
From LifeandTimes.com:
With his eponymous store on 125th Street in Harlem, Dapper Dan pioneered streetwear in the early 1980s by co-opting luxury branding from the likes of Louis Vuitton and MCM and designing original menswear with high-end detail—including exquisite leathers, furs, and skins. First drawing neighborhood hustlers and friends, Dan eventually outfitted rappers and other celebs of the time, such as Eric B & Rakim, and Mike Tyson, to name a few. Now, nearly thirty years after entering the clothing game, Dan is plotting his return to the public eye. The reclusive designer recently sat down with Life +Times to discuss his career—alongside childhood friend Pee Wee Kirkland—retracing Harlem history in the process. For more information about Dapper Dan, visit his site.