History and Founder
A Bathing Ape, commonly known as BAPE, was founded by Nigo (Tomoaki Nagao) in Tokyo, Japan, in 1993. Nigo, a former DJ and fashion designer, created BAPE to bring a unique blend of Japanese pop culture and streetwear to the global stage. The brand's name is derived from the Japanese idiom "a bathing ape in lukewarm water," symbolizing the brand's playful and ironic take on fashion.
Location and Stores
BAPE's flagship store, BAPE STORE® Harajuku, became a cultural hotspot in Tokyo. The brand has since expanded with stores in major cities worldwide, including New York, London, Hong Kong, and Los Angeles. Each store is designed with a futuristic aesthetic, featuring the brand's signature camo pattern and playful graphics.
Popular Items
BAPE is known for its bold and distinctive designs, including the iconic Shark Hoodie, the BAPE STA sneakers, and the Ape Head logo T-shirts. The brand's collaborations with international brands like Adidas, Coca-Cola, and even Supreme have garnered massive attention and cemented BAPE's place in streetwear history.
Celebrities Who Wear BAPE
BAPE has a long list of celebrity fans, including Pharrell Williams, Kanye West, and Lil Wayne. Pharrell's association with BAPE led to the creation of Billionaire Boys Club, another influential streetwear brand. BAPE's unique designs and limited releases continue to make it a favorite among celebrities and fashion influencers.
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