Tremaine Emory’s Denim Tears label has enjoyed a slow but steady rise to fame in recent years, with the brand quickly becoming one of streetwear’s most in-demand labels. While the brand was founded in 2019, it’s worth noting that we’ve seen it really begin to thrive ever since Emory’s departure from his position at Supreme in 2023. Well now it seems that the label’s founder is set to make a bold statement towards his former employer, as part of a collaboration with artist Arthur Jafa. Set to launch on the 26th April, the collaboration showcases the Futura Bold Oblique font that’s often used by the box-logo brand, with text reading “Systematic Racism Controls America”. This is an obvious reference to Supreme’s popular “Illegal Business Controls America” graphic, however it seems to be more of a dig than a homage.
When Tremaine Emory stepped down from his position at Supreme, he stated “systematic racial issues” as a key source of conflict between himself and the brand. It’s also worth noting that there was a scheduled Arthur Jafa x Supreme collaboration in the works, although this was eventually cancelled. It doesn’t seem to be a coincidence that Denim Tears is now working with the same artist, and we’re beginning to wonder whether this collaboration will cause legal issues between Supreme and Denim Tears. Be sure to stay locked in right here at Crepslocker for the latest on this story as we get it, as well as all the latest releases from the world’s best luxury fashion, streetwear and sneaker brands.