Highsnobiety

CAV EMPT

ESTABLISHED

2011

HQ

Tokyo, Japan

FOUNDERS

Toby Feltwell, Hishiyama Yutaka, SK8THING.

INSTAGRAM

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF “CAV EMPT?”

Science-fiction is an important part of Cav Empt’s background and influences, so “cav empt,” short for “Caveat Emptor,” which is Latin for “let the buyer beware,” came from a tattoo in the Philip K. Dick title Ubik, a book SK8THING had been reading. Given the adventurous wears and progressive aesthetics put forth by Cav Empt, it’s a message that the average shopper may want to heed if they’re not ready for the brand’s bizarre graphics and experimental usage of materials and styles.

WHAT IS CAV EMPT CLOTHING KNOWN FOR?

Cav Empt is known for pushing boundaries and starting trends before the rest of the fashion world can catch on. For example, Cav Empt released hole-riddled hoodies before YEEZY season made the practice en vogue, and SK8THING’s ostentatious, retro-future graphics have put the rest of the streetwear world on notice. Aside from their eye-catching imagery, paneled designs, and unique, yet highly wearable aesthetic, Cav Empt’s tracksuits—a British streetwear staple—feature boxy, oversized cuts with mysterious graphics and far-flung references, and counts Skepta as a fan.

2011

Founded by BAPE and Billionaire Boys Club alumni Toby Feltwell and SK8Thing, and their production partner Hishiyama Yutaka.

2014

Collaborates with honeyee.com on a virtual reality-inspired winter puffer jacket.

2015

Produces a co-op project with Japanese retailer BEAUTY & YOUTH on a collection featuring post-Internet themed graphics.

2016

Vans taps Cav Empt for a collaboration with their Bearcat sneaker. The brand also opens its first Tokyo flagship store.

2019

Vans taps Cav Empt for a collaboration with their Bearcat sneaker. The brand also opens its first Tokyo flagship store.

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