After years of working as Kanye West’s art director, designer Joe Perez has launched his very own clothing brand called Mason.
Perez spoke about the inaugural collection in an exclusive interview with Complex this month, revealing the inspiration behind the designs as well as his plans to expand the brand. He explained the first range, titled “Resurrection,” was inspired by his days growing up in Rhode Island, when his interest in punk, metal, and hip-hop culture began.
“There was a lot of inspiration from my youth that I wasn’t really able to interject into the art I was creating,” said Perez, who worked as Donda’s creative director from 2011-2016. “I was always bringing someone else’s vision to life. I loved the process of creating merch and I always thought creating clothes is a statement, so I figured it was the right time for me to do my own line.”
Perez assembled a pop-up shop this weekend in West Hollywood, where customers could get their hands on the full range of tees, sweatshirts, outerwear, and accessories. For those who were unable to attend the event, Mason’s inaugural collection is now available online. Items range from $35 to $600.
In conjunction with the webstore’s launch, Perez has unveiled the official lookbook for Mason’s “Resurrection” line, which you can check out below.
Photography: Jay Perez
Model: Dylan Kulpa
