Every so often, fashion brands partner in a way that makes sense and has the potential to promote mass hysteria. Enter MCM, the German luxury brand beloved for their iconic logo-rich leather goods, and A Bathing Ape (aka BAPE), the high-end streetwear label known for bringing Tokyo fashion to the masses. The two brands have partnered for an exclusive capsule collection combining their respective sensibilities. Last week, MCM and BAPE fans and followers united for exclusive launch events heralding the new collaboration.
On Thursday, October 24th MCM x BAPE launched at West Hollywood's famous No Name venue. The invite-or-reservation-only space, known for its all-black facade, blocks out paparazzi and hangers-on, meaning MCM and BAPE celebrated the new collection in luxurious privacy. Celebrity attendees included Trey Songz, Ava Michelle, Jhene Aiko, Quincy Brown, Christian Combs, Don Benjamin and Liane V. DJ Brittany Sky spun tunes and guests were surprised by three songs performed live by elusive New York rapper Leikeli47. Guests mingled and perused the collection while nibbling on specialty hors d'oeuvres and jungle juice craft cocktails.
The MCM x BAPE apparel collection, which comes in men's and women's styles, mixes BAPE's ubiquitous shark and camouflage motifs with MCM's classic logos, called Cognac Visetos. For example, the collection's track suit, including jacket and pants, boast all-over camo print detailed with MCM's Visetos, a bold style popularized in '80s fashion. The collaboration even has its own logo: a BAPE ape colored with MCM's classic cognac and brown colorways. Slides, T-shirts, sweaters, and keychains complete the clothing collection. For the unisex accessories, the MCM x BAPE collection features a range of wallets in various sizes and leisure travel bags, featuring decorative logos and patches, BAPE's shark graphic, gold metal hardware, and more.
MCM x Bape VIP Collection Launch
Photos Courtesy of MCM x BAPE