What do you think it means on a grander scale that Harlem is now home to its first major luxury brand?

BS: I respect the fact that Gucci is paying homage to the neighborhood’s culture and history through creating this space for Dapper Dan to continue his legacy. It’s a major win for Harlem. It’s a major win for African-American designers in the realm of fashion. Hopefully, this establishment illustrates how influential Harlem is in the fashion industry on a grander scale. While I’m excited for the addition of the new store, I really hope that the individuals who have been living in the local community feel welcome in the store and don’t feel ostracized. This is something that I’ve witnessed in the past when new establishments that have opened up in the neighbourhood. In the decades to come, I believe Harlem will continue to grow its influence in fashion. I also hope that the Dapper Dan x Gucci collaboration will inspire other luxury fashion brands to partner with designers of color. I’d like to see this collaboration replicated in other areas as well.

HJ: I think people who have lived in the neighbourhood for many years are still adjusting to all of these advancements. I’m sure some have mixed feelings to see older businesses go and more big-box retailers come to such a community-oriented neighbourhood. It feels like old cultures and fixtures are being stripped away. However, I am open to embracing these changes. In my opinion, Harlem is brimming with restaurants and bars, so it would be nice to see more fashion retailers open up over the next few years. I think there is still a void to be filled. However, I am happy to think that with this new Gucci atelier, more people will be receptive to the notion of shopping and selling luxury uptown. I am just really curious to see what’s ahead; I feel good about it.

MS: I think it was inevitable that it would happen. I’m just happy that it’s with someone who has roots and a history with Harlem like Dapper Dan. Honestly, Harlem isn’t the same as it was a mere five years ago; in 10 to 20 years, it won’t be recognisable. The neighbourhood will inevitably become more and more whitewashed. Currently, the African-American population is being pushed farther north, and the Dominican population in Washington Heights is being pushed into the Bronx. This land, just a 20-minute train ride from the city center, with its large prewar apartments and charming parks, is being pruned for the wealthy. I wish it weren’t that way, but that’s certainly the direction it seems to be going. Harlem is being bought up and sold to the highest bidders. Hopefully, some staples will stand the test of time.

RN: On a grander scale, my hope is that it benefits the culture and roots of Harlem, that it influences and empowers youth in Harlem to see their neighbourhood recognised by this luxury giant, and for them to realise their dreams and creativity has no bounds. Also, I hope it influences other large luxury brands that pull inspiration from small local artists to collaborate with them instead of stealing their ideas. In terms of the future of Harlem, I could see it being a destination for artists, both visual and performing artists, and hopefully people will become more educated on the neighbourhood’s historical value, the same way people fawn over the neighbouring boroughs. My hope is for Harlem to have the respect it deserves as a cultural epicenter as most new “New Yorkers” I’ve met know very little about Harlem even though it’s affected a lot of popular culture, in my opinion. I have a lot of pride for my hometown! Ultimately, I want to see its legendary status grow globally without displacing the longtime residents and families or disrupting the culture that’s always made it feel like home.

The Gucci atelier in Harlem is open by appointment only.

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

from Celebrity Style and Fashion Trend Coverage | http://bit.ly/2eWeYDN http://bit.ly/2spC0hb
via Who What Wear

---

Book an appointment with Kaitlin Rife (Vidal Sassoon Trained) expert hairstylist.
Call / Text (916) 616-4756 - View My Portfolio
Located @ 420 Palladio Pkwy Folsom, CA | Image Via Byrdie

---