A$AP Ferg’s collab with basics brand UNIFORM is the stuff that utilitarian dreams are made of. The wallet-friendly camo jackets, camper vests and cargo pants keep you laced, whether you’re conquering the concrete jungle or exploring a real one. But the line’s charitable core is really what’s up. Proceeds provide school uniforms to disadvantaged kids throughout Africa.
Here’s the scoop on how this breathtaking lookbook came to be.
Something as simple as a uniform can impact an entire generation because many kids [aren’t allowed in] school [without them]. Coming from Harlem, I understand struggle and fighting to get something-A$AP Ferg
THE DESIGNERS
A$AP Ferg of Traplord and Chid Liberty of UNIFORM
THE VIBE
Desert storm meets uptown swag.
THE MUSE
The duo was inspired by photos of Liberian child soldiers over past decades. Chid Liberty adds, “Decked out in camo with weapons, [these images] have distorted our perception of them as kids. [It’s] a uniform that no child in the world should have to wear. In this lookbook, our models wore the camo and we give the kids uniforms for school.”
Trading military uniforms for school uniforms was the overarching concept.” – Chid Liberty, founder of UNIFORM
THE CREW
Stylist: Archel Bernard
Creative Direction: A$AP Ferg & Chid Liberty
Photographer: Renell Medrano
Models: Kevin Jones at Major Models Milan, Shanelle Davenell, Valentino Thomas and Brian Parris, found on the streets of Liberia.
THE LOCATION
Liberia’s Ducor Palace Hotel—the first five-star property in Africa. Now a ruin inhabited by street artists and squatters, the site sits on top of the highest point in Monrovia and offers sick views of the city.
THE INTEL
Though they mapped out alternate locations beforehand, the crew scrapped their original plans on shoot day. Ducor Palace’s graffiti art, weathered walls and dilapidated staircases provided the perfect backdrop.
THE MESSAGE
“It’s important to create collections that tell stories because it makes the whole process that much more powerful. The garments are born with a deeper meaning. It creates a legacy.” – A$AP Ferg
The collection—all under $200—is available at Bloomingdale’s now. Women’s pieces and additional menswear styles will be available at shopuniform.com and traplord.com this summer.
