Cultural Influences on Streetwear and Sustainability: Insights from Brooklyn Creatives

The vibrant discussion among panelists highlighted the multifaceted nature of streetwear, sustainability, and entrepreneurial identity, emphasizing how cultural backgrounds shape their creative expressions.

The Melting Pot of Flatbush

Panelist Soull Ogun shared that both he and his brother Dynasty hail from Flatbush, Brooklyn. Their upbringing was enriched by diverse cultural influences, primarily stemming from their parents’ heritage. “Dynasty and I are from Flatbush, Brooklyn,” Soull stated. “Inside of our household, there was a melting pot already happening. Our mom is from Dominica in the West Indies and our dad is from Nigeria, and we’re first generation.”

This blend of cultures was evident in their daily lives. Soull continued, “So while we were trying to exhibit being from Flatbush, in the house it was a lot of Caribbean and African happening. Whether it was the music, the food, the clothing, the way that our parents dressed, or the way that they dressed us.”

Sunday Best: A Family Tradition

Fellow panelist Bravado reflected on the cultural significance of attire within his own family traditions. He recounted the experience of dressing up for church on Sundays, a ritual that spans generations. “My grandmother had a church not too far from here—1191 Bedford Avenue,” he explained. “So Sunday mornings, a lot of us know, as Black people, African-American people, Caribbean-American people, is when you put on the finest.”

Bravado further emphasized the influence of his family’s background in fashion, noting the contributions of both his parents: “My dad being a tailor and coming over to the country, he’s from Barbados, my mom from St. Vincent. It was an affair to see everyone get dressed on Sunday morning.”

Sustainability through Community

While the conversation ranged widely, a recurring theme was the concept of sustainability achieved through community engagement. The panelists highlighted the importance of local networks and cultural heritage in promoting sustainable fashion practices. By drawing inspiration from their roots and integrating community-focused approaches, they aim to redefine streetwear not only as a style but as a means of fostering environmental consciousness.

Conclusion

The insights shared by these Brooklyn creatives offer a rich perspective on how cultural backgrounds inform fashion choices and entrepreneurial endeavors. As they continue to navigate the intersection of their heritage and contemporary fashion, the role of community and sustainability remains central to their vision.

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