Streetwear Icons Collide: WHO DECIDES WAR x Pelle Pelle Debuts at NYFW

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, streetwear has risen from underground culture to mainstream influence, shaping the way we dress, express and connect.

Few brands embody this cultural relevance as powerfully as WHO DECIDES WAR, a cutting-edge label co-founded by designers Ev Bravado and Tela D’Amore. Known for its bold aesthetic and intricate detailing, WHO DECIDES WAR seamlessly blends high fashion with street culture, making a statement not just on the runway, but in the broader cultural conversation.

This New York Fashion Week, the brand took a monumental step forward, unveiling an exclusive collaboration with the iconic streetwear brand Pelle Pelle. The partnership, celebrated at Complex’s first-ever NYFW event, marks Pelle Pelle’s first design collaboration in its storied history, signifying a new chapter for both brands.

Pelle Pelle, synonymous with streetwear since the late 1970s, has long been revered for its leather jackets adorned with vibrant embellishments and intricate embroidery. The brand’s distinct blend of edge and craftsmanship has made it a staple in hip-hop culture, worn by legends and trendsetters alike. The collaboration with WHO DECIDES WAR is a meeting of two generations of streetwear innovators, each bringing their unique vision and ethos to the table.

The Pelle Pelle x WHO DECIDES WAR collection combines meticulous attention to detail, full embroidery and diamanté appliqué. The collaboration showcases New York City landmarks and prolific figures, celebrating the city’s rich cultural heritage. This fusion of design philosophies creates a collection that is as much a work of art as it is fashion, with each piece telling a story of rebellion, resilience and spiritual reflection.

Beyond the fashion, the event served as a platform for dialogue about the cultural impact of streetwear. Following the gallery exhibition, IDEA GENERATION—a content series spotlighting the journeys of influential creatives—hosted a live discussion with WHO DECIDES WAR founders Tela D’Amore and Ev Bravado. Moderated by COMPLEX’s Chief Content Officer Noah Callahan-Bever and presented by Lexus, the conversation delved into the brand’s evolution, cultural significance, and vision for the future.

For D’Amore and Bravado, WHO DECIDES WAR is more than just a brand—it’s a movement. Their designs explore spirituality, rebellion and resilience, using fashion as a medium for self-expression and social commentary. The name itself, WHO DECIDES WAR, challenges the status quo, questioning who has the power to define conflict and resistance in society.

The event attracted a host of celebrity and VIP guests, including celebrity jeweler Greg Yuna, Afrobeats sensation Libianca and viral celebrity podcaster Bobbi Althoff, bridging the worlds of fashion, music and media.

In a world where fashion often feels transient, the Pelle Pelle x WHO DECIDES WAR collaboration stands as a reminder of the power of streetwear to transcend trends and speak to something deeper. It’s a celebration of craftsmanship, culture and the enduring spirit of New York City—where fashion is more than just clothing; it’s a statement, a narrative and a legacy.

As WHO DECIDES WAR continues to push the boundaries of what streetwear can be, this collaboration with Pelle Pelle cements its place as a brand that not only reflects the culture but also shapes it. This partnership is not just about clothing—it’s about honoring the past, influencing the present, and inspiring the future of streetwear.

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