Founded by designer Tremaine Emory in 2019, Denim Tears
Emory’s background as a creative director and collaborator with brands like Supreme and Off-White shaped Denim Tears’ avant-garde yet socially charged aesthetic. The brand’s name itself reflects its mission: "tears" symbolize both emotional vulnerability and the physical distressing of denim, while paying homage to the African diaspora’s struggles—particularly cotton’s historical ties to slavery.
"Denim is the ultimate symbol of resistance and reinvention," Emory stated in a 2021 interview. "It’s about reclaiming narratives."
Denim Tears gained recognition for its provocative imagery, like the Cotton Wreath
For those seeking authentic Denim Tears items, curated selections appear on niche platforms like SSENSE and Dover Street Market. Fans can also explore trending products via this interactive denim catalog, which details seasonal drops and rare collaborations—an indispensable tool for collectors navigating the brand’s intentionally limited releases.
Beyond garments, Denim Tears operates as a cultural think tank. Emory frequently partners with artists and historians to host workshops decrypting fashion’s role in racial equity. The 2024 "Indigo Children" exhibition at MoMA PS1 solidified this dual identity as both Clothing label and artistic movement.
As logos increasingly dominate streetwear, Denim Tears challenges norms by embedding painful histories into wearable art. Each frayed hem or screen-printed cotton boll serves as a tactile reminder: fashion can be both beautiful and revolutionary.
Materials | Organic cotton, upcycled denim |
Price Range | $150 - $1,200 (limited editions) |
Signature Techniques | Bleach dyeing, archival image transfers |
In an oversaturated market, Denim Tears stands apart by daring to confront discomfort—one intentionally imperfect seam at a time.