Lekondo'sOntology of Fashion Brands

3343 brands

Clothing is expression without explanation. It influences how you're seen and how you see yourself. Patterns of taste, mood, discipline, excess, and restraint repeat across time and culture. This is our guide to making that language visible.

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Chinatown Market

Chinatown Market is a Los Angeles-based streetwear brand defined by a DIY aesthetic and bootleg culture. It represents a fast-paced, internet-driven subculture that prioritizes accessibility and playful graphics. The brand's ethos centers on democratization, often utilizing iconic imagery like the smiley face to create recognizable apparel.

History

Mike Cherman founded the brand in 2016, drawing inspiration from the Canal Street bootleg market in New York City. It gained significance for its rapid production cycles and high-profile collaborations with major athletic and luxury labels. In 2021, the company rebranded to MA®KET following public criticism regarding the use of the 'Chinatown' name. This transition highlighted evolving industry standards concerning cultural representation and the commercialization of specific urban identities within the global fashion landscape.
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