Founded in 2014 by Teddy Santis, Aimé Leon Dore is a New York-based brand that draws inspiration from the Queens neighborhood where Santis grew up after leaving Greece. The brand stands out for its minimalist and timeless approach, reflecting a unique aesthetic that blends influences from 1990s hip-hop culture and basketball.
Iconic collaborations
Aimé Leon Dore has made a name for itself on the international scene thanks to some notable collaborations. Among the most memorable are its partnerships with New Balance, Woolrich, Suicoke, Timberland, New Era, Paraboot, Drake's, Porsche, and Rimowa. In 2015, the brand collaborated with Puma to revisit the classic State sneaker. In 2017, a partnership with KITH gave rise to a collection inspired by Mykonos, combining nautical motifs and Greek iconography.
However, it was his collaboration with New Balance that really propelled Aimé Leon Dore into the spotlight. Since 2019, the two brands have worked together on several projects, reinterpreting iconic silhouettes such as the 997, 990v2, 990v5, and 827. These partnerships have been praised for their ability to blend New Balance's heritage with Aimé Leon Dore's New York aesthetic.
More locally, we also discussed the brand's collaboration with Parisian artist Franck Pellegrino, whose pieces particularly caught our attention.
An iconic space in New York City
In 2019, Aimé Leon Dore opened its flagship store on Mulberry Street in New York City's SoHo neighborhood. The space perfectly embodies the brand's universe, with an interior reminiscent of classic Parisian apartments and an installation by New York artist Tyrrell Winston. It's a very chic spot where you might bump into Leonardo DiCaprio and other celebrities passing through. The store also houses Café Leon Dore, a Mediterranean café inspired by Santis' Greek roots, offering visitors an immersive experience.
Aimé Leon Dore stands out for its ability to create timeless pieces that combine simplicity with powerful design. The brand strives to tell stories through its collections, reflecting the experiences and values of its founder. This authentic approach has won over a loyal customer base, making Aimé Leon Dore an essential reference in the contemporary fashion landscape.