Lee launches collection with artist Jean-Michel Basquiat

Denim brand Lee has teamed up with artist Jean-Michel Basquiat to launch an exclusive collection. 

The capsule celebrates Basquiat’s iconic style and cultural impact, blending denim craftsmanship and his neo-expressionist artwork.

The collection spans men’s and women’s apparel, including splatter-painted jeans, boldly-striped sweaters, and crown-adorned denim jackets, alongside tops, tees, and sweatshirts.

Notable pieces include the men’s Striped Blazer and Pant, paying homage to Basquiat’s iconic look, and the women’s and men’s Laser-Printed Denim, adorned with Basquiat’s famous motifs.

Likewise, the Women’s Striped Pez Dispenser Cardigan channels Basquiat’s “Pez Dispenser” piece, featuring bold stripes and a vintage-inspired design, while the Men’s Denim Rider Jacket offers a unique twist on the classic Lee Rider style, showcasing Basquiat’s painting ‘Phooey’ on the reverse side. 

“Lee has always celebrated originality, and in our 100 years we’ve been part of American culture, especially the ‘80s around NYC,” said Brigid Stevens, global vice-president of marketing, Lee. 

“The Lee x Basquiat collaboration fuses art, style, and culture together to deliver pieces that are timeless and also unique – original icons made even more so with these iconic pieces of art.”

Basquiat, a prominent figure in the ’80s New York City art scene, captivated audiences with his vibrant colors and striking graphics, establishing himself as a global cultural icon. 

“Lee brought such a fresh perspective to Jean-Michel’s iconic artworks,” added David Stark, the founder and president of Artestar, an international brand licensing and consulting agency representing the estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat. “We hope this collection will inspire a new generation of creatives.”

With prices ranging from $65 to $220, the collection is available on Lee.com, as well as in owned stores in Asia, Europe, and North Carolina. It can also be found in select US retailers like Nordstrom and Urban Outfitters, and European sites including Zalando and Asos, along with boutique locations such as Kiliwatch in London and Craemer & Co.