School was a tough time. I mean, let’s face it—it’s not the homework or the 7 a.m. call time that made it not easy. It’s the zits, uniforms, and the questionable crushes we had back then.
But if I had to pick something that reminds me of the good ol’ days, I’d look at the brand Public School.
Founders and now-DKNY creative directors Dao-Yi Chow and Maxwell Osbourne are just spilling so much serious cool, it’s about time they share the swagger!
Their line is streetwear-inspired and—good news, athleisure folks!—loaded with sportswear-influenced tailoring. The brand’s been around since 2008, so we better catch up now and not be 2000 and late.
I personally love the clean silhouettes and the white-black-gray palette. Everything seems easy to wear. How ironic when compared to real-life school outfits; mine consisted of ruffle tops and jumpers that can’t ever look tidy on anyone at all…
Public School used to only carry menswear, but I guess the cool kids figured women could sport this much spunk. These guys know how to keep things simple.
In Interview magazine, Maxwell once said, “We wanted to be able to change people’s attitudes, like when you put a jacket on, it would be sort of augmentative. You’d feel a little tougher than you normally are, or might be more confident. I think that’s what fashion is for us. It’s supposed to bring out the best in you.”
And it does. Through neat cut segments of their crop tops or the round hems of their patterned capes, Public School gives the wearer the style boost she needs.
If only I could wear this to school back then. Anyway, that’s a different time. I’m much cooler now thanks to these guys.