Inside the Stüssy Archive

Why Stüssy’s pieces hold up over time.

Something big is brewing in Brooklyn. For the next few months, the Stüssy Archive is running a temporary pop-up in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood at 369 Court Street until July. The space features many of the label’s most covetable pieces alongside some true vintage grails from the brand’s 40-year-plus lifespan.

The juxtaposition of items like patterned Tom Tom shirts alongside multiple iterations of Stüssy’s signature hand style graphics and eminently wearable closet staples like Big Ol’ Jeans and beach pants are a testament to why the label remains as relevant now as it was back then. Quite simply: it continues to make good product anyone can pull off, at a great price (even better at the deals the store is offering), while offering style that’s both familiar and forward-looking.

Stüssy’s staying power is rooted in the brand’s continued ability to reference different subcultures and creative mediums without defining itself so singularly. There are elements of reggae, punk, ska, and hip-hop, definite inspiration from surf and skate, but also knowing nods to high-fashion, art, and even gaming.

This malleability is how the brand is able to work with noted textile companies like Tekla and well-loved cult brands like Our Legacy alike. Whether making a lime green pajama set or lightweight linen double-breasted sport coat, neither of these items feel out of place when filtered through Stüssy’s codes of laid-back utilitarian style. These are items you don’t have to think too much about when you put them together, but are certainly considered when it comes to the design intent and product execution.

There are plenty of grails to be found for visitors. Some previous Nike collabs like the Vandal and Air Flight ‘89 are on offer, but among the rarest is a Stüssy x Nike leather jacket.

Boasting a made in Italy construction, the sleek leather bomber was never actually released to the public, and is only one of 25 that exist in the world. The hefty price tag reflects that rarity, but for the right collector, it’s certain to find the perfect home.

Other underrated pieces include Stüssy’s collaboration with Mountain Hardwear, fellow Californians and masters of all things GORP.

There are also fleece vests, GORE-TEX jackets, and coordinating caps to ensure your fit passes the bead check.

When it comes to the myriad of graphic flips done by the brand, one that instantly stood out was this reference to iconic NYC hip-hop station Hot 97. And there are plenty of iterations of the classic World Tour graphic available. For vintage heads, there’s even a rare Apple logo flip sourced from the deep archives.

Beyond apparel, there are plenty of accessories and novelty items from across the decades. Stussy eyewear is well represented for anyone who needs a fresh pair of shades, as well as bags and plenty of caps.

One instant stand-out is the billiard ball set, and other home goods like plates and ceramics. Now that lifestyle items are par for the course for any label that traffics in the gray area between lifestyle and subculture, being able to shop the archive of the originator certainly helps put a perspective on the brands who have since built on that concept.

The Stüssy Archive installation is located on 369 Court Street in Brooklyn and runs May 24 through July.