Stray from the Status Quo in Obey Clothing

Although the brand is named Obey, creator Shepard Fairey has urged its wearers to do quite the opposite since its inception. An artist by trade, Fairey’s manifesto is one that inspires everyone to wonder about the world around them, and with his line he uses clothing as a medium to inspire its wearers to do that.

Stemming from the countercultures of skateboarding and punk rock, Obey clothing has been a staple in streetwear for the way it combines popular culture, politics and the commercial spheres to parody inescapable propaganda. Get to know more about this ubiquitous brand below.

The Sticker That Started It All

The only thing more iconic than the brand’s logo—large white letters spelling out “OBEY” often boxed in red—is the face of the brand. No, not Fairey’s. In 1989, Fairey drew a stencil of well-known wrestler Andre the Giant and began using it as part of a street art campaign. “Andre the Giant Has a Posse” stickers and posters were plastered all over the world, but a n appropriation lawsuit threat forced Fairey to create a new character with Andre’s likeness, one that’s synonymous with the brand name itself.

What’s in a Name

To obey is to submit to the authority of something. Ironically enough, Fairey uses the word as a mean to get people to do the exact opposite. He considers himself a populist and, just like his art, uses his clothing line to foster a message of dissent. The images used satirize political messages and pop culture that saturate mainstream media.

More than the Message

There’s more to Obey than the strong manifesto. Apart from graphic T-shirts that are used as a medium to deliver that manifesto, the brand does not skimp in style when it comes to other wardrobe essentials. Everything, from items like button-up shirts with striking patterns and impeccably-fitting shorts, are constructed with the highest of quality. Although inspired from military pieces and work wear, the use of color and visuals ensure that you will do anything but fit in.

For anyone who wants to make a statement—stylishly—Obey’s collection does just that.

Think for yourself in Obey clothing.

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