Behind The Seams

SWAGGER

Swagger’s high-end street wear and design would seem like the latest digs but in all actuality, Japan’s premier line of Hip-Hop apparel has been keeping it fresh since ’99 with innovative color schemes and top quality fabric. Does your aura turn from dull gray to green glow; confidence level hit the Richter scale and sexual prowess growl when you slide into a pair of crisp jeans and comfy hoodie by Swagger? Japanese designers Iggy and Big-O have a strong appreciation for Hip-Hop culture and are dually inspired by unique details, humor and the essence of ‘Wild Style.’ “We have always had a love for fashion and Hip-Hop music so we incorporate our own passions into our designs.” With the extended luxury line released in 2002, Phenomenon, the designers have asserted their brand internationally in Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Hawaii and New York. Exclusive collaborations with North Face and Levis have proven successful. “We just did a custom pair of jeans for Jay-Z. They would retail for around $1,500, but his are one of a kind.” But of course, our Hip-Hop President must roll in style.
www.swagger-co.com



SB Wear

Break beats, verbal intercourse and solar graffiti encompass the immortal Hip-Hop head rocking SB Wear. The trendsetting and ill-rocking fashion phenomenon birthed through the new soul of black culture gone global has smashed the big screen and ripped the runway. But has the B-Boy’s sense of style come from the likes of Milan and Paris, or a prizefighting Rap superstar with business savvy? Designer Stephen Barr votes nay on both ballots and ops for unique products that evolve from complete, creative control. Barr takes the hands-on approach by physically silk-screening each t-shirt, re-working a stylish hoodie in-house to blend perfect with a custom pair of dunks. “I wanted to create a product that would appeal to sneaker collectors who could recognize and respect the effort and detail that goes into the products. SB Wear is a line of clothing featuring fresh new designs to go with exclusive sneakers.” Impeccable coordination is the key. The eighties baby from South Ozone Park, Queens, is inspired by comedy to make his brand of clothes come to life. “It’s about taking things a step further. These days kids are starting with the sneakers and building the whole outfit up around that.” Satisfying a culture of kick-collectors with the right fit to perfect an untouchable stance.
www.sb-wear.com



Lemar and Dualey

Brooklyn always seems to be in the building. International competition in the arena of fashion has grown tremendously and lucky for us, they’re catering to ravenous, nude Hip-Hop heads. The official ambassador between Japanese, London and New York street-wear, Lemar and Dualey infuse their unique experiences and quest for originality into their artistic brand of urban fashion. “We’re trying to bring the element of cats who grew up all around Brooklyn, expanding the market to not only include the SOHO crowd. You can still get off the hood element and be clean and tailored.” Straight up, they’re not a skateboard clique. Longtime friends and Art majors, the designers of Lemar and Dualey have focused their love of music, sports, women and threads into a clothing line that’s been growing for two and a half years. Expertise matched with hustle makes for fine taste and seductive fashion. Self-taught tailors abide by the code of staying true to authenticity.
www.lemaranddauley.com