HEAD OF STATE

NYC-based HEAD OF STATE crafts ready-to-wear designed to reflect and magnify the diversity of today’s postcolonial youth culture. Launched in 2016 by Taofeek Abijako—who was only 17 at the time—the brand practices garment-making as an extension of its ambitions to foster dialogues about marginalized spaces and support initiatives building sustainable futures for underserved communities. The label’s original and sophisticated collections make statements of their own, pooling utilitarian and ‘70s vintage silhouettes with vibrant colors and avant-garde details. Cropped open-back tops and flared trousers are given an edge with neat cutouts, while fitted blouses in semisheer fabrics ooze a sensual allure. With its well-crafted clothing, HEAD OF STATE models how fashion can be used for change.