As SSENSE marks its 20th year at the forefront of fashion and design, the brand unveils SSENSE XX — an exhilarating celebration of legacy, innovation, and collaboration. Over two decades, SSENSE has seamlessly merged the realms of fashion, culture, and commerce. And as the brand steps into its third decade, it offers a tribute not just to its journey, but to the myriad creatives who’ve shaped its narrative.
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20 Days, 20 Drops, 20 Stories
The heart of this celebration lies in the SSENSE XX initiative: a curated series of 20 unique drops, released daily till November 7. These are not just products but statements from iconic designers and creatives who’ve played pivotal roles in the brand’s journey. The lineup promises brilliance with names like Rick Owens, Jil Sander, and New Balance, each offering a unique reflection of their relationship with SSENSE.
ERL: Beginning with Nostalgia and Vision
Setting the tone for this fashion spectacle is Eli Russell Linnetz‘s brand ERL. Since its inception in 2018, ERL has been a harmonious fusion of nostalgia, mischief, and vibrant leisure wear. With Linnetz’s foundational belief that every creation is about “filling a void,” ERL’s offerings are more than just garments — they are emotional, tactile experiences.
For SSENSE XX, ERL reimagines its iconic Venice hoodie. This creamy yellow piece is a tangible journey through ERL’s distinctive Californian lens. It takes wearers on an evocative trip, from the electric energy of a football game to the quirky charm of a souvenir shop, and the buzz of a fast-food drive-through. It’s a celebration of everyday experiences, elevated with ERL’s signature flair.
Beyond its designs, ERL’s essence is rooted in Linnetz’s philosophy. In a conversation with SSENSE in 2019, Linnetz remarked, “I think whether you’re doing a stage design or doing a video or making clothes or writing a song, it’s all about filling a void of something that’s missing inside you and hoping that it fills other people that are missing that same part of themselves. My art isn’t about making something I think people will like. It’s something I will like” This honest, unhurried attitude shines through in ERL’s contributions, making its pieces not just fashion statements, but wearable extensions of Linnetz’s own artistic ethos.
Embracing the Past, Looking to the Future
As each drop in the SSENSE XX series unveils, it promises to be a reflection of SSENSE’s two-decade-long commitment to visionary design, collaboration, and storytelling. The journey begins with ERL, and if this is any indication, the world of fashion is set for a monumental treat. Here’s to celebrating 20 years of SSENSE, and to many more decades of redefining fashion.
