Pastelle was a streetwear brand that never really took off before Kanye West‘s YEEZY and his various collaborations with Balenciaga, GAP, adidas, and Nike. Anything released through a rudimentary website was available in extremely limited quantities, if at all, and most of what was or is available today is a sample.
Pastelle pieces are regarded as holy grails in the streetwear and wider fashion communities, let alone among Kanye fans. The Pastelle varsity jacket, arguably the most iconic piece from Pastelle, is now up for sale, courtesy of renowned consigner Justin Reed, who is currently in possession of it.
Pastelle had a lot of potential in 2008. West enlisted Kim Jones as a consultant, Emma Hedlund and Saif Baker (now best known for CMMN SWDN) as designers, Ben Baller to handle accessories, Retrosuperfuture for eyewear, KAWS for a bespoke logo, and BAPE to assist with distribution.
They would shop for vintage clothing together at LA’s Rose Bowl Flea Market and thrift stores, and one leather troupe jacket is said to have inspired this varsity jacket.
The Pastelle varsity jacket, which Kanye West wore during his 2008 American Music Awards performance, comes in an unmistakable and inimitable palette of blue, yellow, and red, sectioned off in the traditional varsity way with yellow branding on the back of the jacket.
Justin Reed’s jacket — which is one of a handful at best — is in a “Pre-owned, very gently worn” condition and a size medium. Rib-knit cuffs, faux leather paneling, branded appliqués and more complete the piece.
Those who’s interested in this piece can head to Justin Reed’s website now to cop the rare Pastelle varsity jacket, which is listed for $10,000 USD.
