Collaborations in streetwear are nothing new — in fact, these partnerships have historically produced some of the most hyped and sought-after pieces in streetwear history. 2016 was no different. This year saw some new partnerships blossom, such as the case with KITH x Nike and mastermind JAPAN x Anti Social Social Club, while others continued from seasons prior. Most notably though, are collaborations that were brought back, such as with Supreme and UNDERCOVER. When industry stalwarts team up, there’s no denying that the pieces will fly off the shelves and into the hands of hardcore collectors (or resellers) in a matter of seconds. Which collaborations were you most impressed by? Let us know in the comments below and check out our list of this year’s best high fashion collaborations here.
mastermind JAPAN x Anti Social Social Club
Anti Social Social Club and mastermind JAPAN linked up recently for a small capsule collection that answered the dreams of many streetwear enthusiasts. At the heart of the collection is a graphic merging ASSC’s wavy logo print and mastermind’s trademark skull and bones motif. The launch saw pop-up shops with lines streaming down blocks in Tokyo and Los Angeles. This collaboration capped off a stellar year for both brands, which saw a ton of various partnerships.
OFF-WHITE x Chrome Hearts
An image showcasing an OFF-WHITE x Chrome Hearts collaboration surfaced back in November, and fans were immediately speculating a full capsule collection partnership with the two brands. Then in December, it was announced that the two partnered on a limited edition T-shirt range. All boasting the same graphics, the T-shirts paid homage to cities around the world — from New York, Los Angeles, Hong Kong and more.
BAPE x adidas Originals
Undeniably one of the most-hyped collaborations this year, the BAPE x adidas Originals collaboration saw two extremely-coveted NMD styles and an accompanying apparel range. Fusing the two brands’ trademark aesthetics, the sportwear pieces boasted BAPE’s trademark camouflage print. The release saw a ton of confusion though — with roll-out shrouded with technical difficulties. Eventually, the only stores to carry the range stateside were adidas Originals flagships in Los Angeles and New York.
OVO x Jordan Brand
Drake’s lifestyle and apparel brand October’s Very Own made huge strides this year, collaborating with the one and only Jordan Brand. The collaborative apparel collection launched following OVO’s extremely-hyped Air Jordan 12 release, which remains one of the most sought-after Jordan shoes of recent memory. The apparel collection harked off of traditional basketball apparel, and featured hoodies, sweatpants and duffel bags. Check out the full collection here.
Soulland x Eric Koston x Nike SB
Eric Koston once again teamed up with Nike SB, but this time he brought along Copenhagen-based brand Soulland. The collection was called “FRI.day” and was inspired by freedom — fitting since “fri” means freedom in Danish. Comprising of jackets, hoodies and T-shirts, the highlight of the collaboration was the Koston Hyperfeel 3 and Koston One sneakers.
UNDERCOVER x Supreme
Streetwear stalwarts Supreme and Undercover rekindled their flame with another partnership this year. The collection boasted a full range of apparel including footwear thanks to Dr. Martens. The release also saw the reissue of the legendary Supreme Gilapple. Unsurprisingly, the entire collection sold out immediately and many pieces have ascended ranks to become streetwear holy grail items.
Stone Island x NikeLab
2016 was the “Year of the Windrunner” for Stone Island and NikeLab. The Italian technical sportswear label released two collections with the Swoosh this year, centered around the windbreaker. The first release dropped early this year featuring a slew of neutral windbreakers and a collection of footwear. Then fast forward to September, and the innovative partnership continued with a range of colorful and light functional jackets.
FILA x Gosha Rubchinskiy
Taking a page out of Vetements’ book, Gosha Rubchinskiy teamed up with a few sportswear such as FILA and Kappa for its 2017 spring/summer collection. These collaborative pieces brought back these OG sportswear brands that arguably hit its peak in the ’90s, but a revival is surely underway. Our favorites are the FILA pieces, which boast both classic hoodies and footwear that will bring you right back a few decades. Check out the full range here.
Supreme x The North Face
Following a highly successful collaboration last year, Supreme linked up with The North Face once again on a collection of winter apparel and outerwear. This year saw collections for both spring/summer and fall/winter. From heavy down jackets to windbreakers and crewnecks, the all-encompassing range was another fan favorite. Click here to check out the latest drop of winter pieces.
Palace x adidas Originals
The UK’s Palace Skateboards continued its partnership with adidas Originals and released several collections this year. A streetwear favorite, these collections are always highly coveted. This year saw the release of several more shoe styles including the Palace Pro Primeknit and EQT. Inspired by retro sportswear, the apparel range includes windbreakers, track pants and jerseys. Always released with lighthearted teasers and announcements, Palace and adidas are truly a great match.
Justin Bieber x Fear of God
Fear of God’s Jerry Lorenzo linked up with pop star Justin Bieber to design outfits for his Purpose Tour in what was to become a longstanding partnership. Responsible for dressing the Biebs in streetwear favorites and Fear of God exclusives, Lorenzo oversaw the design of Bieber’s merch. From exclusive pop-up releases to drops at Barneys, Forever 21 and H&M, the rock-inspired range was a definite hit for streetwear, Justin Bieber and Fear of God fans.
Honorable Mentions:
Boiler Room x Stüssy
During the summer, Stüssy linked up with Boiler Room to create a limited edition T-shirt for the Notting Hill Carnival. The T-shirt features both brands’ logos on the front while the back highlighted performing artists such as Rampage, Disya Jeneration, Aba Shanti-i, Channel One, Nasty Love, Saxon Sound and Deviation. During Notting Hill Carnival, Boiler Room live-streamed 42 hours worth of performances.
FOG x PacSun
While PacSun is dealing with major financial troubles, there is a silver lining for the struggling retailer. Jerry Lorenzo’s Fear of God first announced a diffusion label sold exclusively at PacSun late last year. Called FOG, the line’s release has caused major site crashes for the mall staple. Collection Two is right around the corner, dropping on December 17. Check out the latest range here.