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Hypebeast Community Center: Spotlight on Brigade, the Unisex Lifestyle Brand Taking Over Street Culture
Welcome to Hypebeast Community Center, where we shine a light on emerging, indie, and underground brands in the world of street culture. Today, we’re putting the spotlight on Brigade, a brand that’s making waves with its raw energy and authentic roots in New York City.
The Brigade Elevator Pitch: Community Over Commodity
Brigade is more than just a brand – it’s a lifestyle, a movement, and a celebration of individuality within a collective spirit. Our designs are inspired by the diverse community of New York City, and we collaborate with local models, stylists, musicians, and artists to bring our collections to life.
The Five W’s of Brigade
Who wears Brigade? Real people who are doing real sh*t.
What is Brigade’s main message? Community over commodity and no half-stepping.
When did Brigade launch? We started with t-shirts in 2014, but really found our stride in 2017.
Where can you find Brigade? While we have a strong presence on the East Coast of the US, we also have a substantial following in London, Tokyo, and Seoul. You’ll find Brigade heavily represented in the creative scenes of musicians, artists, graffiti writers, and photographers.
Why was Brigade created? To bring back the original essence of streetwear and to focus on community above all else. Our name, Brigade, reflects our belief in the power of a united group of individuals.
About the Brand: The Story Behind Brigade
What sparked the creation of Brigade? For founder Aaron Maldonado, it was a near-fatal car crash in 2014 that made him realize life is too short to not pursue his passion. With the support of his partner Sarah, they decided to turn their dreams into reality and co-founded Brigade.
How did Brigade get its start? With $500 saved up from delivering pizzas, Aaron created his first collection of printables. As the brand gained traction, they shifted their focus to cut-and-sew garments and in 2021, Aaron was able to leave his full-time job to focus on Brigade full-time.
Brigade is more than just a brand – it’s a testament to the power of following your dreams and the importance of community. So next time you see someone rocking a Brigade piece, remember that it’s more than just a fashion statement – it’s a symbol of unity and individuality.
