Rick Owens launched his fashion brand in California in 1993. A graduate of the Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles, Owens first sold his creations at “Charles Gallay,” a cutting-edge boutique in the city. In 2001, he moved his production to Italy, and the following year, with support from Vogue USA, Owens staged his inaugural fashion show. Since then, Rick Owens has experienced a meteoric rise, establishing itself as a major force in alternative fashion.
Rick Owens' aesthetic draws inspiration from the black-and-white Hollywood films, 1980s underground punk culture, and the grunge and glamour of the 1990s. Known as a representative of the anti-fashion movement, Owens is renowned for his unique style, which blends glamour with grunge. His designs feature luxurious materials like fur and leather, rendered in distressed and worn textures, complex forms, and drapes that appear effortlessly chic. Typically dark and monochromatic, the fabrics convey a sense of aged beauty, while the silhouettes are layered with abundant leather and metal details. Owens describes his style as “luxury for those who don't necessarily need it.”
Over the last few years, Rick has abstained from provoking brands and has started working with them instead. First, he united with Adidas, then came collaborations with Moncler, Birkenstock, Veja, Converse, and Dr. Martens.