In a groundbreaking move, Off-White made its New York Fashion Week debut with the Spring/Summer 2025 collection, showcasing a vibrant fusion of global influences and urban style. Creative director Ib Kamara transformed the basketball courts of Brooklyn Bridge Park into a runway, presenting a collection that seamlessly blended African craftsmanship with American sportswear aesthetics.
The “Duty Free” show was inspired by Kamara’s recent trip to Ghana, the ancestral home of Off-White’s late founder Virgil Abloh. This cultural exploration resulted in a diverse range of looks that catered to the modern, global traveler. Women’s pieces featured body-conscious silhouettes, from sharp tailoring to party dresses, while menswear emphasized utility and street-ready layers.
Standout elements included sheer wrap skirts embellished with Americana stars, plunging V-neck tops and asymmetrical cuts that exuded confidence and sensuality. The menswear line introduced innovative details such as zip-off panels on vests, jackets and trousers, offering versatility and urban flair.
The collection’s color palette ranged from muted tones to vibrant hues, with painted graphics and brand icons created in collaboration with Ghanaian artist Nana Danso adding a unique touch to select pieces. Accessories complemented the looks, with spiked sandals and hardware embroidery adding to the overall aesthetic.
New York’s diverse energy perfectly aligned with Off-White’s global perspective, as Kamara explained, “To celebrate the city and be part of an evolving community of a global traveler and global people, which is very New York.” This sentiment was reflected in the star-studded front row, which included celebrities like Flavor Flav, Camila Cabello, and Mary J. Blige, alongside athletes and artists.
The choice of venue – a public basketball court – symbolized Kamara’s vision of inclusivity and community. “When immigrants sometimes immigrate to a new space, they need to bond with the community on a common ground. And for me, a basketball court is a no-brainer – everyone is equal and is within a community,” he noted.
©Photo: Off-White