See the latest collection from LØCI, the cult label backed by Leonardo DiCaprio
Gallery Ø, a considered edit of oversized T-shirts and hoodies, showcases the artists who serve as a source of inspiration for both the brand and its community
Words: Josh Lee
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A fledgling brand that bills itself as ‘urban-lux’, LØCI has already amassed the firm backing of Leonardo DiCaprio and a cult following of creatives thanks to its fine balance of sleek uppers and robust soles, clean aesthetics, and a strong use of ‘next-gen’ eco-friendly materials. Its pared-down logo – a circle sliced through by a line – has been making an impact on the footwear scene since the company’s 2021 founding, becoming a fixture in studios and streetwear shots of late, and its underpinning – that green-forward approach – helps seal the deal for those looking to invest in some new kicks. Notably, each one of its canvas trainers is crafted from 20 recycled plastic bottles collected from the Mediterranean and the coast of Africa; its bio-leather selection showcases a sustainable alternative (a mix of recycled textiles and non-food-grade corn) to traditional animal leather; insoles are made from natural cork and mould nicely to the feet; and minute details, such as the recycled laces and the recycled brass eyelets, are thought about deeply. Production also takes place in monthly cycles, so as to minimise waste and the effect that manufacturing has on the planet.
The UK venture also offers apparel, including boxy hoodies, sweatshirts and T-shirts, many designed in block-hued palettes. Its latest release is the Gallery Ø, a considered, curated edit of wears that showcase the artists who are a source of inspiration for both the brand and its community.
Of particular note is the oversized Miranda Forrester T-shirt, which has been designed by the figurative British painter who explores the queer Black female gaze and utilises stretched plastic over smooth surfaces in order to make her subject matters appear even more vivid. The dropped shoulders, moreover, complement the relaxed fit.
Another T-shirt is by LA-based artist Langley Fox, who examines Depression-era themes with graphite, ballpoint pen, and, sometimes, oil paint. Jilian Evelyn’s pieces, meanwhile, look at the ‘beauty of the nude female form’ – not necessarily exhibiting sexuality, but ‘confidence’.
There are hoodies, too, and we’re quite drawn to Juli Baker’s creation in a bold, vibrant cobalt blue, which is ideal for those slightly chilly summer evenings, and is made with the artist’s punchy illustration whose colours and flow may remind you of a Hockney or a Matisse.
Moreover, as with its footwear, LØCI’s wardrobe essentials are also sustainably made, with the Gallery Ø items being created from organic cotton that’s grown without using pesticides, chemical fertilisers and GMOs, and uses half as much water than that required for conventional cotton.
With its revered mixing of sleek looks, innovative materials and – in the case of Gallery Ø – artists that are moving the conversation forward in their world, LØCI is doing a pretty sound job of showing other labels how to do good while looking good. And, if it’s a formula that works for Leo, it’s one that should work for pretty much everyone else.
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