Kanye West launches fashion incubator

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
Jun 4, 2019

Hip hop artist and Yeezy creator Kanye West is launching a fashion incubator to foster new talent in the industry.

The incubator program will provide financial assistance and mentorship to aspiring creatives in fashion, design, and more, Vogue reports.

The first recipient of the incubator grant is Maisie Schloss, a Chicago-born Parsons graduate and former member of the Yeezy womenswear design team. Schloss will receive assistance from the program as she prepares to launch Masie Wilen, her debut clothing line.

The designer is set to launch Masie Wilen next week in Los Angeles featuring a full Resort collection, with a separate debut ceremony scheduled for Paris later this month.

Prior to this newest venture, West’s most prominent contribution to the fashion world was Yeezy, the ready-to-wear label made in partnership with Adidas that launched its first season in 2015.

Previously, West has also participated in sneaker collaborations with A Bathing Ape, Louis Vuitton and Nike - notably on the Nike Air Yeezy I and II - and on a menswear collection with A.P.C. Additionally, West has longstanding ties with Virgil Abloh, who has previously served as a creative advisor and partner to West.