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Men’s Style Guide | 2017 Designer to Watch: Warren Lotas

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Anh Pham

Fashion is an ever evolving industry, and a big part of that evolution is a constant stream of new designers emerging and breaking out. This process of making it to the forefront of the fashion world has been expedited with the internet, which has allowed for international access in a way that was never before possible. Two designers in particular that have really taken advantage of this are Virgil Abloh, of Off White fame, and Jerry Lorenzo, who is best known for his Fear of God line. While in no way have either of these designers solidified themselves as fashion icons, like a Tommy Hilfiger or Ralph Lauren, they are certainly bright young talents in the clothing world. Another budding name who is currently enjoying a rise to fame is Warren Lotas.

Lotas is a 21 year old designer out of Boston, who has recently gained massive notoriety for his custom hand painted, jackets, jeans, and shoes. Lotas takes heavy influences from the 1980’s punk scene for its overall aesthetic, as well as the imagery he uses – often skulls and other gothic motifs. Another artist who has clearly been an influence on this style is Pushead (shirt design pictured above) who is best known for the work he did for Metallica and other bands. It is no coincidence that Lotas’ recent rise to fame has coincided with the explosion of popularity in the trend of wearing band shirts, especially Metallica shirts, which of course are often pieces of Pushead art.

Another big factor of the recent success Lotas has enjoyed can be attributed to unofficial endorsements he has received from a handful of different celebrities, and especially musicians. Some of these names include Wiz Khalifa (pictured above in a pair of Warren Lotas Pants) as well as other rappers such as Vic Mensah. Obviously receiving this type of exposure is invaluable for an emerging designer and creates a level of brand recognition that is near impossible to create otherwise. Currently with two lines under his belt, by the names of SAM and BILL, Warren has only just scratched the surface of his creative potential and has shown no signs of slowing down.

There are also many other designers who have shared similar inspirations and artistic backgrounds to Lotas. While many exist more as pure copies of Warren’s style than anything else, there certainly are many designers who have carves out their own niche. One such designer is Toronto’s own RION KNWS who puts his own aesthetic twist on the custom jacket concept.

What do you think of Lotas’ work? Do you believe there is a place in the fashion industry for these types of items? Let us know in the comment section down below! If you’re not a fan at all, let us know why not!

Designer Swap is Canada’s online luxury consignment shop and Toronto-based fashion blog. We sell authentic and pre-loved designer pieces and write about the newest fashion and beauty trends. Make sure to check us out on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest!

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Images courtesy of hypebeast.com, imgfave.com, wizkhalifa.com, noseknws.com

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