A$AP ROCKY DEBUTS ITS FIRST AWGE COLLECTION.

Words by Fernanda Callejo

Move over, fashion elite. A$AP Rocky’s here to rewrite the rules. We all know him as a music powerhouse, but Rocky’s reign extends far beyond the mic. He’s a style icon, fresh off a campaign with Bottega Veneta. And now, he’s taken his signature swagger to the most prestigious stage in fashion – Paris Fashion Week.

Forget following trends. Rocky’s here to set them. His label, AWGE, just debuted its first-ever collection: “American Sabotage.” Prepare for a show unlike any other, a raw and unapologetic exploration of “ghetto expressionism” straight from the streets of New York City.

Thirty meticulously crafted looks explored the concept of “ghetto expressionism,” offering a raw and personal glimpse into Rocky’s creative vision. With the help of designers Joshua Jamal, Bede Marchand, and Coucou Bebe, Rocky pushed boundaries and challenged conventional definitions of fashion.

True to his “Fashion Killa” title, Rocky didn’t hold back. The show was a potent blend of art and activism, set to the soundtrack of three unreleased tracks from his upcoming album. PUMA footwear and Ray-Ban eyewear completed the look, ensuring both style and function.

Arriving at the Hôtel de Maisons venue, guests were greeted by a scene that set the tone for the entire collection: three Alpine-sponsored supercars flanked by a crew of AWGE misfits holding “Don’t Be Dumb” flags, and yes, Rihanna was there.

In an interview with Hypebeast, Rocky explained the inspiration behind the collection’s title: “American Sabotage.”

“America has a complex history,” he said via Hypebeast. “This is my story within that history – my American horror story, my American dream, my American fight. On the streets of New York, I see people from all walks of life – rich and poor, free and incarcerated. This collection draws inspiration from all of that: refugees, mass incarceration, even my own experiences. It’s ghetto expressionism, unfiltered.”

The message was clear in the clothing itself. Phrases like “POLITICAL SATIRE” adorned garments, while bomber jackets featured the American eagle and flag reinterpreted with a rebellious edge. Uncle Sam got a makeover too, raising two middle fingers and a defiant “F$CK YOU!” in true Rocky fashion.

Oversized silhouettes dominated the runway, a dramatic reflection of New York street style. Pieces inspired by NYPD and paramedic uniforms further explored the concept of “ghetto expressionism.” Layering added volume and texture, mirroring Rocky’s signature look.

Take a look into the collection