Chris Echevarria Unveils Academy – A New Era in Menswear Fashion

Chris Echevarria, a notable name in the fashion industry, has recently launched his debut clothing label named “Academy by Chris Echevarria.” The brand’s inaugural collection, dubbed “Collection 001 – School Clothes,” features an eclectic mix of apparel including knitwear, outerwear, shirting, pants, and jewelry. With a diverse price range spanning from $75 for a hat to $2,500 for an 18-karat gold ring, Echevarria’s collection aims to offer something for a wide range of tastes and budgets. The designer humorously suggests that the collection’s name, “001,” hints at the possibility of at least 100 more collections in the future.

The Academy collection is inspired by classic preppy style but introduces a unique twist to these traditional elements. It includes items such as crisp, striped oxford shirts, chinos adorned with tiny embroidered flags as a tribute to designer Ralph Lauren, and crewneck sweatshirts with the word “Academy” boldly emblazoned across the chest. The collection even features a navy blue blazer adorned with an “A” crest on the breast pocket.

Echevarria, who is also the founder and creative director of Blackstock & Weber, a brand known for its trendy loafers, continues his exploration of classic Americana in this new venture. His creative approach combines his personal experiences and cultural influences, as seen in the use of tiger-camo safari jackets and cargo pants, which reflect his fascination with the Japanese interpretation of American style. All items in the Academy collection are made in New York using Japanese fabrics, further emphasizing this cultural blend.

The Academy brand is more than just a fashion statement; it represents a broader narrative in the fashion world. Echevarria views his work as part of an ongoing storytelling tradition, particularly as a designer of color in the American fashion industry. He sees the creation of his brand as an opportunity to have full control over the narrative and to present a perspective that may have been underrepresented in the past. The collection is a testament to Echevarria’s commitment to crafting a unique narrative in fashion, blending various cultural and stylistic elements to create a distinctive and inclusive line