We’re just as stylish and as innovative here on The Rock as those in New York, London, Milan and Paris. And yes, we’ve noticed the new streetwear trend of distressed Tees. Leading the charge locally is LaTroy Vincent, the man behind the Chop Shop label, who told All Woman Fashion (AWF) in a recent interview that the T-shirts are an extension of who he is. “They are easy, fun and comfortable,” he explained, “I’m also heavily influenced by Hip-Hop’s laid-back but fashionable culture,” Vincent said.

Vincent’s influence can be traced to his grandfather Tony and father Charles Paul Vincent, both established tailors whose atelier once stood on Galloway Road off Maxfield Avenue. “I used to hate the idea of wearing a suit – albeit an exquisitely tailored one, as it was so hot”. LaTroy shares with AWF. This rebellious streak led him to use the scissors as a weapon against the established look; employing it not to lash out at the convention, but to create the unconventional. “I would recycle old T-shirts and create designs that could breathe and felt more relatable.” This he has turned into a line of fashion – Chop Shop, which has found favour amongst his tight circle of friends who see it as an opportunity for him to capitalise on his innovation. He plans to honour his father’s legacy by sitting at the sewing machine he once loathed with his grandfather… to continue the legacy.

Order your distressed T-shirt at : malakhi1876@gmail.com

(Photos courtesy of LaTroy Vincent)