Basquiat’s Influence on Fashion Continues

An exclusive look at Coach’s new collection with the artist

Decades after his death, and Jean-Michel Basquiat’s influence is still as present as ever—and it extends well beyond the confines of the art world. Over the years, the artist has become one of fashion’s biggest collaborators. 

It only makes sense. Basquiat made waves in the industry in 1987 when he walked in Rei Kawakubo’s Spring/Summer 1987 Comme des Garcons Homme Plus show. Thirty years later, Kawakubo paid tribute to that moment with a full collection featuring Basquiat’s work in 2018. Supreme and Off-White have also recently carried on his lasting legacy. 

The latest to continue the artist’s love affair with fashion? The heritage fashion label, Coach. This time, through the intimate lens of his family. 

The collection, which includes a series of ready-to-wear-pieces and accessories featuring Basquiat’s iconic artwork, is celebrated with a campaign that spotlights his niece Jessica Kelly alongside Jennifer Lopez, Michael B. Jordan, Jeremy Lin and Yang Zi. The cast is featured in a series of short films discussing everything from the importance of family and community to Basquiat’s legacy.  

The campaign is the brainchild of none other than NYC-based photographer Micaiah Carter, who worked to make it happen alongside a diverse set of creatives including Paloma Elsesser, John Batiste, and Diana Gordon.

Basquiat is one of my heroes,” said Coach Creative Director Stuart Vevers. “He embodied the creative, inclusive spirit of New York and was a force for change in his community. I am proud to celebrate his work and values and help bring them to a new generation.”

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