A$AP Bari Talks VLONE, Lil Uzi Vert, and Changing the World with Vogue
“It’s like the X-Men, and we’re a group of mutants,” says A$AP Bari of Vlone, the cult-fashion label that he helms alongside A$AP Rocky. “I’m Professor X just trying to bring people together to change the world.” To continue the metaphor, these mutants’ special powers are, essentially, their own fiercely particular type of personal style, or as Bari puts it, “Everybody that’s a part of Vlone has his own thoughts and creative vibe.” In the three years since the brand launched, it has garnered a following that extends far beyond the A$AP Mob: Fashion-forward music impresarios like Kanye West and Wiz Khalifa have worn the line, drawn to it for its various street-culled inspirations. This season, that translated into working with Virgil Abloh of Off-White on some pieces, as well as casting fellow rapper Lil Uzi Vert to model for the lookbook.
“Uzi is a young, up-and-coming artist, and he’s living the Vlone lifestyle,” said Bari. The Lamborghini convertible and Yamaha motorcycle featured in the shoot are there to represent the artist’s dreams realized. “Having the car he has always wanted, the bike he’s always wanted,” said Bari, “doing the things he likes to do. It might seem bourgeoisie or whatever, but it’s really about Uzi being happy in life.” The casting was a matter of art imitating life. Bari first met Uzi after he gave a shout-out to Vlone on his track “Ready Set Go (VLone).” Bari also liked Uzi’s laissez-faire approach to style. “He doesn’t care what he wears—he’s a rock star, and that’s why I love him,” said Bari. “He’s not a follower. He doesn’t dress like me or Rocky.” And as for the other half of Vlone, Bari says it’s a creative partnership the pair share, with the two engaged in something of a constant discussion. “Sometime I take Rocky’s suggestions, and sometimes he takes my suggestions,” said Bari. “Everything, including the design process, is based on a freestyle . . . back and forth, and we brainstorm.”
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