I had trouble sewing my life together, so God made me a tailor. Then, a dream of being a designer was born. I didn’t let anything nor anybody rip that dream away from me. Now, from the corners of Harlem to the runways of Europe, by way of Africa, I’m living that dream. Thirty-plus years later, with no tears nor regrets, I’m telling my story. My memoir, Dapper Dan: Made in Harlem, is available for pre-order now via @randomhouse:
The 1980s were the best of times (Rap music’s golden age) and the worst of times (The Crack Epidemic), but thanks to the GLORY OF GOD I was given the vision to do something positive for our culture. I am so thankful to all who made that possible.
HARLEM FOREVER 🙏🏿❤️💪🏿
New T Magazine available this Sunday. Preview here.
Fashion has given me a voice. This Telegraph Luxury article is but an intro to the perils and prosperity of a cultural odyssey. Culture has both a light side and a dark side. Through the will of God, I have come from the dark into the light. My commitment is to create light through my voice. Fashion has given me that opportunity.
📸: Martin Scott Powell
Read here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/luxury/mens-style/dapper-dan-interview-gucci-collaboration-harlem-style/
It’s time to tell all. From growing up with holes in my shoes and swimming in The Harlem River, to crossing The River Nile in Africa in search of my identity. I came from nothing, and God has blessed me with a partnership with Gucci, a book deal with Random House, and now a movie deal with Sony Pictures. Harlem and Africa, through the grace of God, have shaped my life.
Salma Hayek wore the most important outfit of the night at last night’s Oscars. It wasn’t because she is absolutely stunning—because she is. It wasn’t because it was the best outfit of the night—because it wasn’t. It’s not because it was @gucci, nor is it because it was made by Dapper Dan. No. It was the most important because it sent a message to my pen pals in the favelas of Brazil, and in Soweto, South Africa, and in every ghetto in the world where people are trying to find a way to “make it from The Corner to the rest of the world.” It is important because they know that my story is their story, and that if someone of Salma’s stature would wear something of mine, then they, too, can be a designer.
A sign of the times. For the first time in history, a major luxury brand store has opened in Harlem: @Gucci by Dapper Dan. With made-to-order garments for your taste and in your specific measurements, I will create your design from your mind, or come up with a design for you. I’ll also have limited edition ready-to-wear items and accessories available for purchase, by appointment only.
