When streetwear meets high fashion and the avant-garde becomes popular, Hood By Air is the brand that stands in the middle of those crossroads.  Surviving for approximately 10 years, HBA has succeeded in making what seems like a niche aspect of style, a staple in today’s fashion.

T-shirts with words like “wench” across them in bold letters, and polo shirts with the word “hustler” on the front. These are just a few of the statement pieces that make HBA’s line. They also have created button-downs turned into halter-neck tops, backless blouses, and classic suits taken apart and reworked. HBA stands out by incorporating elements of design that seem to be unthinkable, or even unimaginable to most people. And in some instances, that’s what makes their clothing genius.

Co-founders Shayne Oliver and Leilah Weinraub

have managed to keep the brand relevant for at least 10 years. Though Weinraub is not Oliver’s original partner, she stepped into her role while HBA was in recession. The brand originally developed by Oliver and his former partner Raul Lopez was created using graphic tee and hoodies. It gained popularity through A$AP Rocky, who not only wore the brand but also talked about it in his lyrics.

The two later took a break to pursue separate interests until Oliver’s friend Leilah stepped up to the plate to help him out. Since becoming apart of the brand she has literally become it’s, protector. Driving away potential investors who would like nothing more than to own HBA, profit off of it, and keep her and Oliver on with little to no power.

HBA’s Fall 2017 collection will be the last collection produced by the team until they decided to relaunch the brand. Oliver has taken a job with Austrian fashion brand Helmut Lang, while Weinraub will be focusing on her film career.  They’ve vowed to bring HBA back “in the near future.”