The SNOW BEACH is back
SNOW BEACH, the really iconic collection made famous by Wu-Tang Clan’s Raekwon, is back. And the truth is that this totally retro drop looks almost as good as the original.
In 1993, the one and only Raekwon, part of the Wu-Tang Clan, featured in “Can It Be So Simple” music video one of the best capsule collections that Ralph Lauren has ever released: SNOW BEACH. It was an instant hit after that.
History note: As expected, the rise of hip-hop from the early 80s to the late 90s clashed right upon two of Ralph Lauren’s most significant designs: the American Flag and the Polo Bear.
We would be disappointed to know that you have never heard of Wu-Tang Clan. But, we are here to help and give you insight (and because we have seen and heard many, many strange things).
Before and after Wu-Tang Clan
Wu-Tang is originally from New York, where Ralph Lauren’s headquarters is still located. Born in the early 90s, the hip-hop group is formed by RZA, GZA, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, to name a few.
Considered one of the best hip-hop crews of all time, even if some views were taken with prejudice back then, it only made Ralph Lauren’s brand grow stronger.
Without trying to go off topic, for sure that 2017 marked a new era when it comes to footwear. However, fashion labels are not staying behind at all. This is the perfect example. Ralph Lauren “retroed” that same early 90s collection inspired by the details, colors, and silhouettes that previously released.
Sure, now it is nothing but hyped. OG collectors may be slightly disappointed that everyone will be trying to purchase, but we’ve said before: life is not fair.
Ralph Lauren: not all brands are created equal
All brands are trying to target what we know as streetwear. Sure, some may fit the purpose more than others, but there is no other way around it if you think about it.
If Supreme can collaborate with Louis Vuitton if Lil Yachty has launched a Nautica Capsule Collection, why can’t other brands be associated with hip-hop and its derivatives across the globe?
Born to a Jewish family from the Soviet Union (Belarus), Ralph Lauren’s long-standing career started at DeWitt Clinton High School. At night, he would be working at Alexander’s while on the other hand, during the day, he would be selling handmade ties to his school peers.
As many would say, he was hustling from a very young age. In a good way of course.
Lauren’s markup was between $7-10 back then. As time went on, his face-to-face business kept growing during his evening classes at Brooklyn’s Baruch College. He was doing the exact same thing as before, selling his handmade goods to his colleagues.
Nevertheless, his ambition was as big as the world. Hence, he thereafter became a neckwear salesman at Brooks Brothers. It was quite a step for him we should add.
Ralph Lauren is born
His legacy kept on going, up till now, even though he had no idea that his brand would become what it is today. By the time he was designing his own neckwear pieces, he was already married with three children.
The year 1967 also marks when Ralph Lauren’s brand was officially born. As of today, the “polo logo” is recognizable anywhere you go.
It does not matter if you wear it or not, but you just can’t deny it. Although, don’t you think that there was a lot of thought put into to that.
Ralph has never stepped a foot onto a polo field, he just liked the sport. Odd, but true. Long story short, 30 years plus have passed and the brand keeps expanding internationally while upgrading and launching male and female colognes, denim lines and luxury accessories.
High fashion and streetwear all in one world
As mentioned above, many brands are trying to mingle with the streetwear scene, and yet again, we are reviving its fundamentals. This launch, in particular, is split into two parts.
The first displays flashy and energetic color blocking items while a monochromatic, classier and technical approach will be released on February 1st. The SNOW BEACH capsule collection is close to perfection when compared to the 1993’s drop. It truly keeps its DNA intact.
It also revisits the Americana nostalgia we all expect from Ralph Lauren. If you plan to buy the OG drop, you can always head over to eBay and buy it.
However, please bear in mind that prices are skyrocketing. On the other hand, click here and get your favorite retro item.
(Featured Images via END.)