Calling all bapesters: A Bathing Ape makes wearable hip-hop gear by Japanese designers

What's a bapester? It's a fan of the clothing line A Bathing Ape, founded in 1993 by Tomoaki "Nigo" Nagao.

A Bathing Ape is short for "A Bathing Ape in Lukewarm Water," which in Japan is a symbol of complacent over-indulgence. It's a nod and a grin in reference to the lazy opulence of Japanese youth, the brand's very own best customers.

In the states, it's evolved into a premium streetwear brand that has garnered fans like Pharrell Williams, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Busta Rhymes, Lupe Fiasco and Kanye West. Here's Kanye rocking an attention-getting outfit in a recent Bathing Ape Catalog.


One look at their latest collection gives you a clue as to what to expect:

It's an eclectic, supremely wearable and relaxed (if slightly oxymoronic) collection of Run DMC-style classics, 90's camo, and modern prepster. It's at once modern and comfortable, while giving an edge.

They're also big on throwback footwear, like this collection of 80's Adidas/Nike-inspired sneakers.

I'm also loving the photography treatment they gave their recent 2009 style manual:



Next time I'm in LA or NY, the Bathing Ape store is on my must-visit list.

By the way, Hi! I'm Garry. This is my first post, and I hope to get a chance to contribute much more in the future. I'm a software engineer by training but I love looking at beautiful objects, whether its electronic devices, websites, software, or clothes.
4 responses
woo hoo for garry's first post! the ghost-like pics are pretty awesome - especially the ones involving shorts so you get the random shoes at the bottom. If I'm in LA when you're in LA - we shall visit together!
I have a bit of a love hate relationship with Bathing Ape. I love the colour palette but not a fan of how their designs seem to be made for big kids and it is over priced.
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