spend your life than doing things you love with people you love?
Ben Oleynik’s Grand Collection: Where Skateboarding and Fashion Collide
In the bustling streets of New York City, there is a brand that has captured the hearts of both the skate and fashion communities. Ben Oleynik’s Grand Collection has become a household name, known for its quality, family values, and elevated yet minimal designs.
After years of personal projects and collaborations with other major skate labels, Oleynik decided to create his own brand. With close friends and fellow skaters Wade DesArmo and Spencer Hamilton on board, and even his father walking in the first-ever runway show, it’s clear that Grand Collection is built on the foundation of those closest to him.
While many fashion brands draw inspiration from skateboarding, Grand Collection takes it a step further by emphasizing a holistic respect for craft. This quality is what sets the brand apart and defines the best in both fashion and skateboarding.
From their video parts to their fashion shows, Grand Collection exudes excellence. Their clean and proper styling, combined with natural and elegant skate tricks, showcase the brand’s dedication to perfection. It’s no wonder that they have garnered support from pro skaters like Diego Nájera and creatives like Pharrell and Willy Chavarria.
The Latest from Grand Collection: Collaborations and Giving Back
Grand Collection’s most recent project was their third collaboration with Umbro, featuring tracksuits and sweats tailored to the brand’s oversized and skate-inspired aesthetic. But the brand’s impact goes beyond just fashion.
Every year, Grand Collection hosts a holiday food drive in partnership with Star Team East Village, collecting non-perishable goods for those in need. In fact, their first fashion show two years ago had a unique entry requirement – instead of a VIP invite, guests were asked to donate non-perishable goods.
When asked about his inspiration for Grand Collection, Oleynik simply states, “What better way to spend your life than doing things you love with people you love?” This sentiment is evident in every aspect of the brand, from its designs to its charitable efforts.
From a Small Canadian Town to the Streets of New York City
Oleynik’s journey to creating Grand Collection is a testament to his passion and determination. Growing up in a small Canadian town, he was obsessed with skateboarding and eventually made his way to Vancouver, the skateboarding capital of Canada.
But it was his wife Marianne who encouraged him to take the leap and move to New York City. Despite never having been there before, they packed their bags and made the move together. As Oleynik puts it, “Don’t make things bigger than they are, don’t be afraid to try the things that you want to do.” And that’s exactly what he did with Grand Collection.
