American Apparel Buys NYC Retailer Oak

By: Tamara Arnew

PHOTO CREDIT: OAK NYC

American Apparel is out to prove that they are more than just the Helvetica, high socks, human rights and hype advertising that we have given them credit for. The company purchased cult fashion retailer Oak as a division of the brand, with two stores located in NoHo and Brooklyn as well as a wholesale and e-commerce oriented platform. Oak has operated as an independent specialty retailer founded by Louis Terline and Jeff Madalena, with a defiantly and influentially hip perspective.  

OAK STOREFRONT IN NOHO, NEW YORK CITY
PHOTO CREDIT: PULP MAGAZINE

The clothes have all of the traits of the American Apparel men's and women's lifestyle, while allowing for a more apparent forward thinking perspective and definition of each to their own edge.  They’re all for black being forever cool and the twist in ease that we associate with New York’s style.  

OAK COLLECTION FALL/WINTER '13
PHOTO CREDIT: OAK NYC

OAK COLLECTION FALL/WINTER '13
PHOTO CREDIT: OAK NYC

With two minimalist and recognizable influences the American Apparel brand will continue to develop as a crucial closet filler and keep us anticipating the next wave of owning our own daring with basic-but not basic pieces. Plans for expansion of the Oak division and new store openings have not yet been released, however the Fall/Winter 13 collection is available for pre-order through the online store. 

PHOTO CREDIT: OAK NYC

Sources: WWD, WhoWhatWear, Oaknyc.com