Aime Leon Dore: The Rise of the NYC Streetwear Brand

The Rise of Aime Leon Dore as a Leading Streetwear Brand

In recent years, the New York-based label Aime Leon Dore (ALD) has quickly become one of the most popular brands in streetwear and menswear. Founded in 2014 by designer Teddy Santis, ALD has developed a strong following for its focus on exceptional quality and attention to detail, while drawing inspiration from Eastern traditionalism, Ivy League classics, and vintage aesthetics.

ALD's Founding and Early Success

After working for brands like Supreme and Kith, Santis struck out on his own with ALD. He stocked the first collections himself and handled all operations. The debut collection offered updated versions of classics like cricket sweaters, rugby shirts, and baseball uniforms with unique colors and fabrics. Despite the high prices, it quickly sold out, earning ALD a cult following.

Within a few seasons, ALD was being stocked at top-tier retailers like Barneys, Bloomingdale's, and Mr. Porter. Its collections blended retro prep and workwear with contemporary silhouettes and details, appealing to diverse demographics from streetwear fans to fashion insiders.

ALD's Tailoring and Production Quality

One key factor in ALD's success is its exceptional construction and fabrics. The clothes are made in Italy, Portugal, Canada, and New York using premium natural fibers. While many streetwear brands focus on graphics and branding, ALD has built its identity around garment quality.

ALD is particularly renowned for its tailored clothing, including blazers, trousers, shirts, and more. There's an emphasis on vintage tailoring techniques alongside contemporary slimmer fits. For example, the brand's cricket sweaters feature fully paneled construction and chain-stitched hems. The attention to detail provides value and versatility.

ALD's Balance of Retro and Modern Styles

While ALD draws heavily from heritage looks, there is always a modern edge. For example, a cricket sweater may be cropped with unique buttons instead of the traditional ribbed waistband. Shirts come inupdated check or camo patterns instead of plain Oxford cloth. This balance of old and new runs through everything ALD produces.

There is also an emphasis on wardrobe building, with each collection offering foundational menswear pieces along with seasonal designs. ALD focuses not just on singular statement pieces but on outfits and total looks.

ALD's Core Items and Capsule Collections

Certain pieces have become core parts of ALD's collections. These include Italian wool chore coats, French terry crewnecks and sweat shorts, and Japanese selvedge denim. Such items often sell out instantly and are highly coveted.

In addition to main seasonal releases, ALD has built hype with frequent capsule collections featuring brands like New Era, Clarks Wallabees, and Woolrich. The partnerships highlight ALD's curatorial eye and allow access to iconic heritage brands.

ALD's Brand Collaborations

Collaborations have been integral to growing ALD's profile globally. The brand has partnered with companies like Porsche, Major League Baseball, and Coca-Cola on co-designed collections. There have also been team-ups with labels like Drake's, Nepenthes, and Neighborhood.

Some of the most coveted releases have been the ongoing ALD x New Balance shoes, apparel, and accessories. The partnerships demonstrate how ALD adapts iconic designs with its own colorful fabrics and prints.

ALD Retail Spaces and Cafes

After mostly wholesaling to other retailers, ALD opened its first flagship location in Soho, NYC in 2018. The multilevel space includes menswear alongside a café and flower shop. Additional flagships followed in Los Angeles and London.

The retail spaces let ALD fully control the shopping experience. Customers can enjoy coffee and pastries as they browse the curated products and brand ephemera on display.

The Outlook for Aime Leon Dore

With its balance of vintage inspiration and contemporary style, expertise in fabric and construction, and hot collaborations, Aime Leon Dore has carved out a special space in the menswear and streetwear market. As it expands globally, many more fans are discovering the brand's unique luxurious take on classics.

ALD drops continue to sell out instantly, and the secondhand market for pieces is booming. While the brand has grown significantly, it has stayed committed to thoughtful design and avoiding overexposure. The future looks bright for ALD as both a retailer and cultural tastemaker.

FAQs

Who founded Aime Leon Dore?

Aime Leon Dore was founded in 2014 by designer Teddy Santis.

Where is Aime Leon Dore based?

Aime Leon Dore is headquartered in New York City, where it was founded.

What is Aime Leon Dore known for?

Aime Leon Dore is known for its exceptional quality and tailoring, vintage-inspired styles, and successful collaborations with brands like New Balance and Porsche.

Where can you buy Aime Leon Dore?

Aime Leon Dore has flagship stores in NYC, LA, and London. The brand is also stocked at luxury retailers globally and drops sell out quickly online.