Legendary Harlem designer, Dapper Dan has signed on for an official partnership with Gucci to open a new boutique in Harlem. A tastemaker of black fashion in the late 80s and early 90s, Dapper Dan added his own unique flavor to the luxury Italian brand's high-end designer logo. More than 35 years later, the designer has been tapped for an official collaboration with the Italian luxury brand.
Dapper Dan took to Twitter to share the news on Wednesday. “A sign of the times. For the 1st time in history, a major luxury brand store has opened in Harlem: Gucci by Dapper Dan Harlem with made-to-order garments for your taste & in your specific measurements, I will create your design from your mind, or come up with a design for you,” he wrote.
A sign of the times. For the 1st time in history, a major luxury brand store has opened in #Harlem: @Gucci by @DapperDanHarlem. With made-to-order garments for your taste & in your specific measurements, I will create your design from your mind, or come up with a design for you. pic.twitter.com/ZWxQBKMMBw
— Dapper Dan (@DapperDanHarlem) January 10, 2018
This is truly a full-circle moment for the designer. When Gucci premiered their 2018 Resort collection in Florence last year, many of the runway designs looked strikingly similar to the hood couture' faux Gucci pieces popularized by Dapper Dan. After years of contention and mutual admiration, the two iconic style makers are finally on the same team.
I want to know if Gucci has any black senior level employees so they can advise the company to stop stealing from us. That's all. pic.twitter.com/eBZJeIPvQQ
— Shiona Turini (@shionat) May 29, 2017
But don't get it twisted, Dapper Dan is still about his hustle.
I’ll also have limited edition ready-to-wear items and accessories available for purchase, by appointment only.
— Dapper Dan (@DapperDanHarlem) January 10, 2018
We see you Dapper Dan. Congratulations on the come up!