MF DOOM x Supreme: More Soul Than a Sock With a Hole
Is Supreme back? As a sort of authority in this space (JK), I'm not ready to call it yet but I'm certainly happy to put the idea out into the world going off of the good stuff and similarly strong looks thus far epitomized by Supreme's Fall/Winter 2023 collection.
Especially given that the 30-year-old skate brand is actually issuing a collaboration with MF DOOM's estate this season. Perhaps Supreme is indeed back — it only takes the one MF DOOM capsule.
First hinted at by the usual Supreme leak-focused social media pages, the Supreme x MF DOOM collaboration was confirmed by the skate brand itself on September 5, two days before the MF DOOM capsule drops on Supreme's website (September 7).
Supreme's MF DOOM collection will comprise a selection of shirts, hats, and pants printed with the late DOOM's visage, including beanies with the graffiti-style MF DOOM eyeball logo and a hoodie laden with a photograph of the late rapper's inimitable mask.
Just remember, all caps when you spell the man's name.
Beyond whatever immediate appeal the clothes might afford, though, the Supreme x MF DOOM collaboration is a big deal simply because it brings together the world's biggest streetwear brand with one of the industry's most quietly-influential rappers.
Two titans of counterculture coming together, at last. A MF DOOM collab done right is, dare I say, more soulful than the average Supreme team-up by way of the cultural implications alone. Worst case scenario, at least it's decent DOOM merch.
Bear in mind that the MF DOOM Nike Dunks remain one of the most sought-after colorways even 16 years after their release so attention for anything DOOM-related is all but guranteed.
Commenters on the aforementioned leak pages were clearly excited and reactions to Supreme's official confirmation were downright ebullient. If this heightened attention leads to a necessary sales boost for Supreme, that's a win-win.
Other highlights from Supreme's FW23 season include a new Korean store, typically sublime accessories (hello, grill-wearing skull), and a seasonal campaign starring the founder of buzzy brand Corteiz. Even with creative director Tremaine Emory's departure, the current season collection remains locked in place.
Supreme's first week drops, which includes the long-awaited and surprisingly expansive reunion with inimitable artist H.R. Giger's estate, certainly bode well for the rest of the season.
Indeed, Supreme is off to a rip-roaring start for Fall/Winter 2023. The NBA Youngboy co-sign, as divisive as that was among Supreme's fickle fanbase, served its purpose, heralding a new era for the age-old brand.
With this MF DOOM collab, Supreme has essentially signaled that it can do both, courting the now and then simultaneously.
