June 19th 2013

When I first heard that Kanye West was collaborating with French ready-to-wear brand A.P.C., I was not immediately sure of my reaction. I have always been a large fan of A.P.C.’s minimalist designs, and their ability to make normal pieces extraordinary. After collaborating with my favorite brand, Nike, last year, they brought the collaboration back for a second time. This year, featuring posh Air Max’s and creamy leather high tops; they are the epitome of the effortless European look that embodies A.P.C.

In the last year or so, I have witnessed Kanye wearing everything from Givenchy leather kilts, to an acid washed jean jacket. No one was more surprised then me, when Kanye’s collab with A.P.C was…tame. The collection features seven extremely simple items.

Now, a great deal of debate has risen since this collaboration launched. Why? Because every item ranges between $120-280. Is a t-shirt truly worth $120? While a lot of people may not see eye to eye on this, personally I would say yes. A simple white t-shirt is a staple in your everyday wardrobe. You can dress it up and down in the blink of an eye. It should wash without unraveling. These particular t-shirts, while I do not think this is specific to Kanye X A.P.C., are quality made with reinforced stitching and Egyptian cotton. Slightly ridiculous? Yes. But when it comes down to it, we should be spending our money on everyday staples, opposed to items that we’ll only wear once. My personal favorite, are T by Alexander Wang t-shirts and tanks. At about $80-$125, they are an investment, but over time, save me money. I’ve had mine for a while, and the stitching and colors are still close to new, and they look nice on their own.

So, even though Kanye did not go crazy on this collaboration like I had eternally hoped for, he still got something right. Wardrobe staples are timeless, and should be taken care of just like that prized dress you wore once to a formal…and now hangs in your closet untouched. While I will not be lining up to buy one of his Hip-Hop T-shirts, or his Hooded Sweatshirt (in which is all sold out), I do see why Kanye and A.P.C. decided on the pieces they did. How do you feel about the collaboration?

Kanye X A.P.C.