Walk around with an expensive Supreme bag or hoodie, and people instantly think you’re rich and classy. Still, some people cannot wrap their heads around why Supreme holds the position as one of the most expensive brands in the world.
I know you care to know how it attained this status, and that’s why you’re probably reading this in the first place. There’s a lot of storytelling to it that’ll catch your fancy.
So, ride with me till the end as I spill out everything you should know about the high-end brand Supreme.
About Supreme
Early years
If you were asked to name one of the world’s most expensive brands, Supreme is one brand that’ll make the list. But how this small American skateboarding label evolved into a billion-dollar streetwear icon is a story worth telling.
Founded and established in New York City in April 1994, Supreme was born out of James Jebbia’s passion to supply comfortable and affordable hoodies and sweatshirts to the budding New York skate community.
Being British, He moved to the United States at the age of 18 and worked for the founder of Stüssy before he opened his skateboard shop at Lafayette in New York City.
SEE: Best Evergreen Gift Ideas for Women
Marketing strategy
James had a unique sale strategy. First, he decorated his store using a minimalist approach still being used in Supreme stores to date.
Next, he set up a monitor that played videos from Mohammed Ali’s fights and other interesting clips that could easily draw the attention of passersby.
And he got the attention he wanted because before long, more people took notice of his store, and it became a hangout spot for skaters and the coolest kids on the block.
James also did something differently- he printed on some of the hoodies and caps, and people loved them.
With the attention on him, items sold out faster than usual, and because he didn’t have enough to restock, the shop will often look empty when new customers visit. Then an idea popped up.
Brand evolution
James realized he could release his apparel every Thursday to heighten the expectations of his customers. Soon, people got accustomed to the word ‘sold out,’ and would always look forward to Thursdays to get the next best piece of his wear.
It worked, and brands like Nike still use this strategy to date – create hype and supply a limited edition. And just as it happened back then, people still want to get their hands on the items before they are sold out.
That’s the story of how a teen boy revolutionized the Supreme brand as we know it today. The company still sells clothes and skateboard decks, bearing the logo of a rectangular box with the word “Supreme” inside it.
The brand has major stores in New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, London, and Japan.
SEE: Is Poshmark Safe To Buy From?
Is Supreme expensive?
Yes, it is.
Prices go from $30 and more when shopping for some Supreme products. If you’re familiar with the Supreme X Nike Collection, you’ll remember that it was earlier sold for $150 but skyrocketed to $800.
It’s the same with the Red Box Logo Tee. Originally costing $30, its resale value doubled over to $900 on StockX.
One of the most alarming price switches was when Tyler the Creator styled the Teal Red Box Logo Hoodie in a music video. Prices went from $150 to a whopping $3,500, and the list goes on and on.
Supreme is indeed Supreme when it comes to resale value and is, no doubt, an expensive brand.
Why is Supreme so expensive?
There are a few reasons why Supreme is genuinely expensive. They include:
Supreme hype
First, the brand has built up a significant amount of hype and cache over the years, which has helped to create an aura of exclusivity around it.
Also, Supreme typically produces relatively small runs of each of its products, which helps to further drive up demand (and, in turn, prices).
Quality
Another reason why Supreme is so expensive is that the brand is known for producing high-quality items. In particular, Supreme’s clothing is often constructed from premium materials.
Additionally, it features intricate details and designs that add visual appeal to the overall quality of the garments.
Supply and demand
It’s important to note that the high prices of Supreme products are largely due to basic principles of supply and demand. Simply put, there is often more demand for Supreme products than there is supply, which helps to drive up prices.
In addition, because Supreme products are often only available for a limited time (and in limited quantities), this also helps to create a sense of urgency and further increase demand.
What is Supreme most popular for?
Most people think of Supreme as a streetwear brand.
While this is true, it’s also so much more. The brand has been around since 1994, and in that time, it has come to symbolize other things.
For some people, it’s a status symbol; for others, it’s a way to show their love for skateboarding or street culture. And for many, it’s simply a brand that makes great clothing.
Is Supreme a luxury brand?
Yes, it is.
The streetwear label has been coveted by fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike for its unique designs and limited edition releases.
While the brand’s clothing is certainly not cheap, its quality and exclusivity make it a desirable choice for those who can afford it.
In recent years, Supreme has collaborated with high-end fashion brands like Louis Vuitton and Comme des Garcons, further cementing its status as a luxury label.
SEE: Is Champion A Good Brand Or Not?
FAQs
Is Supreme ethical?
This is not clearly stated.
The reason is that the brand avoids questions about how eco-friendly it is. According to GoodOnYou, an eco-focused online review site, Supreme’s rating on this issue is: We Avoid.
Is Supreme a hipster brand?
No, it isn’t.
However, it’s safe to say that Supreme is often associated with hipster culture, due to its popularity among young people who are considered to be trendsetters.
Who is Supreme’s target audience?
Youths. The reason is that they are willing to pay more for high-quality products.
Is Supreme owned by Louis Vuitton?
No, it isn’t. It was founded by James Jebbia, but VF Corporation now owns it.
SEE: A Guide For Working Out In A Hoodie
Conclusion
Supreme has been ruling the luxury industry for a very long time, and now you know why. The brand has seen many decades, but it’s still standing strong thanks to its unique marketing strategy and statement pieces.
If you are a fan of luxury and high-end fashion, it’s safe to say your wardrobe isn’t complete without Supreme apparel. The brand always lives up to its name -Supreme.
Thanks for reading.
Read more brand stories here on Africana Fashion.
