Surprise, surprise! Coach and BAPE have announced plans for a collaborative apparel and accessories capsule, news that followed Coach’s New York Fashion Week runway presentation on Tuesday (February 11, 2020).
As modeled by actor/singer Quincy Brown and Japanese model/singer Kōki (real name Mitsuki Kimura), thus far Coach has revealed a hooded jacket and canvas clutch both of which are detailed with a monogram that combines the Coach’s “C” logo and BAPE’s ape head
While news of brand collabos have become an everyday, ho hum occurrence, the news of Coach and BAPE partnering on a capsule is an interesting development given their disparate histories and reputations.
Upon closer examination, however, BAPE moved on from its extremely limited, artful roots when its founder Nigo (real name Tomoaki Nagao) sold the company to Hong Kong-based I.T. in 2013. As part of the brand’s 25th anniversary this year, it’s collaborated with all manner of regular-degular brands.
At the same time, Coach has attempted to scuff up to its suburban and staid reputation through collaborations with Opening Ceremony, Keith Haring and Disney as well as tapping Jennifer Lopez, Michael B. Jordan and Megan thee Stallion to front ad campaigns.
Furthering burnishing its street cred, Coach’s runway presentation yesterday introduced a Jean-Michel Basquiat capsule at an event whose front row included Megan, Paloma Elsesser, Coco Gordon Moore, Malu Byrne and Blondie.
The collaborative capsule will launch online and in select Coach stores. As of now, there isn’t any info on pricing or launch timing. To stay on top of the launch, you can submit your email to coach.com/shop/bapexcoach for updates.
