Here is the next and last instalment in our range of hoodies. Some might criticise me for a lack of originality, but talking about hoodies without mentioning BAPE is a bit like talking about hip-hop without mentioning Biggie! But stop right there! Let’s not get distracted, let’s get back to the question in hand.
Founded by Nigo in 1993 in Tokyo, it’s one of Pharrell’s favourite brands. Globally known and respected in hip-hop circles, each piece is deliberately made in limited numbers to keep them desirable and rare. They used to sell for high prices, and weren’t always worth the money, but fashion isn’t about being rational, is it?
BAPE positions itself as top-of-the-range and fun streetwear, their hoodies are unusual to the point of being a bit weird: bright colours and all-over bling are key (you either love it or hate it!). You can, however, find some more discreet styles, that concentrate a bit more on detail…

The production is detailed and the materials are chosen with care. You pay a premium for unusual styles, so don’t bother trying to find them for less than €300 in stores! The distribution is highly limited, and it is difficult to predict new arrivals, but it’s always worth checking Colette in Paris.
(There are many sites offering BAPE at really low prices, but I’ve not tried them out and can’t guarantee the authenticity of products… You’ve been warned!
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You probably see it at least once a day, it’s now a familiar shape. Comfortable, solid and stylish when required, the DUNK has become more than just a pair of shoes.

Cult and legendary, it was launched in 1985, transcending eras and styles, loved by basketball players, hip-hop masters or skaters… Whether Hi, Mid or Low, it is worn by the good and the great. Timeless and on-trend, it has become a reference point for all sneaker addicts.
Beside its status as a fashion accessory, the DUNK has become a symbol of a chilled lifestyle.
Once commonplace, but now idolised, the DUNK is back with a vintage edge and a range of colours paying hommage to American university basketball teams. This new range, called “Be true to your school” is available in Paris from Colette and Shinzo from €115. So you can have stylish feet this summer. Get moving!
And now: the killer bag! This bag is amazing looking. This bag is complete madness. This bag is from Mastermind Japan. An insane Japanese brand that makes t-shirts that cost more than $500. And bags that cost…
2,008.70$ from Diabro (This brand is available in France from Colette)
Sometimes fashion and music are on the same wavelength. The French ready-to-wear brand April77 arrived with the renaissance of rock culture. You have probably heard of them because of their skinny jeans. Last month they’re paying hommage to the famous guitar manufacturer Gibson by releasing 500 numbered pairs of skinny “Gibson” jeans. They are only on sale at Colette in Paris, Dover Street Market in London and Loveless in Tokyo. There’s a unisex “Joey” cut limited edition pair made from Japanese denim sold in packaging designed to look like a guitar case. Pretty cool, huh? All the more so given that there aren’t enough pairs for everyone…