James Whitner
James Whitner is an American fashion entrepreneur and the founder of The Whitaker Group, a retail and cultural collective that operates prominent streetwear brands such as A Ma Maniére, Social Status, and APB. A native of Pittsburgh, Whitner established his first fashion and sneaker boutique in North Carolina around 2005, building a retail empire focused on challenging norms and maintaining craftsmanship within the streetwear industry.
Latest Stories
Streetwear Power Ranking: The 2026 Edition
From veterans like Supreme’s James Jebbia to new school leaders like Corteiz’s Clint Ogbenna, these are the 25 individuals who make things happen in streetwear right now.
The Whitaker Group Announces Partnership With Adidas
Introducing the 'Do Not Duplicate' product and storytelling platform.
Is Luxury Fashion Done With Streetwear? Industry Leaders Weigh In
We asked 10 industry leaders what they think about the current relationship between streetwear and luxury fashion.
The Whitaker Group Launches 38a Apparel With Story-Driven Denim Shorts Drop
New 38a line debuts with purpose-built denim shorts celebrating Black expression and heritage.
James Whitner Discusses His 'No F*cks Given' Approach to Navigating Corporate Spaces on Complex’s ‘Please Explain’
In an interview with Complex's Editor in Chief, Aria Hughes, the founder of the Whitaker Group also addressed the lack of Black ownership in streetwear.
James Whitner Concedes $1.2 Million in Alleged Retail Scheme
The owner of Social Status walks away from a federal sneaker bust.
The Sneaker Collaborator Power Rankings
From artists like Travis Scott, to shops like Undefeated, we've ranked the 25 most powerful collaborators in sneakers, right now.
A Complete Guide to This Weekend’s Sneaker Releases
From the latest retro of the 'Playoffs' Air Jordan 8 to the Born X Raised x Nike SB Dunk Low, here is a complete guide to all of this week's best sneaker releases.
Streetwear Power Ranking
The Complex Streetwear Power Ranking reflects which individuals have the most power in streetwear, from Tremaine Emory to Pharrell Williams to Yoon Ahn.
Social Status Earns Webby Nomination for 'Playground/Recess' Short Film
The streetwear/sneaker boutique is celebrating the nod with a screening of the coming-of-age film directed by brothers Julien and Justen Turner.
Social Status Is Letting People Pay It Forward With Latest Nike Collab
Social Status is releasing its Nike Air Max Penny 1 'Recess' collaboration again and giving people a chance to help the community for back to school season.
Listen to ‘Complex Sneakers Podcast’ Ep. 130: James Whitner
The Complex Sneakers Podcast is co-hosted by Joe La Puma, Brendan Dunne, and Matt Welty. This week they’re joined by The Whitaker Group founder James Whitner.
A Guide to Black-Owned Sneaker Stores and Boutiques
From Union LA to RSVP Gallery, Creme 321, A Ma Maniere, and Trophy Room, these are the best sneakers stores, shops, and boutiques that are Black-owned.
The Best Sneakers of 2021
Where do the Trophy Room x Air Jordan 1s belong? What about Travis Scott and Virgil Abloh's Jordans? These are the best sneakers of the year.
A Ma Maniére Releases Fall/Winter 2021 Apparel Collection
A Ma Maniére's newly released collection delivers 43 cut-and-sewn pieces inspired by sports culture—specifically the concepts of teamwork and vigor.
The Best Air Jordans of 2021
From originals like 'Carmine' Air Jordan 6s to Off-White and A Ma Maniere collaborations, here are Complex's picks for the most popular & best Jordans of 2021.
Why Social Status' 'Free Lunch' Dunks Are One-Of-a-Kind: 'It's Only Built for Us'
James Whitner breaks down the milk-inspired Social Status x Nike 'Free Lunch' Dunk, its one-of-a-kind shape, the importance of storytelling, Nike SB, and more.
Here's a Look at A Ma Maniére's First-Ever In-House Collection
The pre-fall 2021 range incorporates elements of workwear, sportswear, and military uniforms with an emphasis on top-tier materials and craftsmanship.