NIGO
NIGO is a Japanese fashion designer, DJ, and entrepreneur best known as the founder of the streetwear brand A Bathing Ape (BAPE), launched in 1993. He pioneered the fusion of Japanese street culture and global hip-hop, creating signature designs like the shark hoodie and the Ape Head camo pattern, which have become enduring symbols in streetwear. Beyond BAPE, NIGO is also the founder of Human Made and creative director of the luxury brand Kenzo, further establishing his influence in contemporary fashion while producing music that reflects his broad creative vision. NIGO’s work is noted for its blend of vintage Japanese motifs and contemporary streetwear, especially visible in his limited-edition collaborations with Pharrell Williams, Adidas, Louis Vuitton, and Nike. His releases generate collector enthusiasm by reimagining nostalgic elements through innovative designs, turning each drop into a cultural milestone that resonates deeply within the global streetwear community.
Latest Stories
NIGO's Human Made to Acquire Jun Takahashi's Undercover as Part of Strategy to 'Cultivate Culture'
If all goes as planned, Undercover will become a consolidated subsidiary by 2028.
The Best Streetwear Collabs of 2026 (So Far)
From Supreme x MM6 to Swatch x AP, these are the best collaborations of the year, so far.
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.
Nigo Calls Bape a 'Big Mistake...But in a Good Way'
Nigo sold 90 percent of his share in Bape in 2011, but stayed on as creative director for two years.
How to Buy Nigo's 'LO2' Nike Air Force 1 Collab
The 'LO2' Nigo x Nike Air Force 1 releases in May.
Human Made and Coca-Cola Reconnect for Third Capsule Collection
The seven-piece capsule features a twill cap, sweatshirt and vintage-inspired Coca-Cola can.
30 Brands You Need to Know If You Love Streetwear, From OGs to Rising Stars
From pioneers like Stüssy to this generation's stars like Corteiz, these are the streetwear brands you should be up on.
30 Things to Know About American Streetwear
From its underground beginnings to a billion-dollar industry, these are the key moments that define American streetwear.
Human Made Announces US Expansion, Plans to Open Retail Stores
The Japanese brand, founded by Nigo, will still be fully owned by Human Made.
Ranking Jacob the Jeweler's 10 Greatest Pieces of All Time
Highlighted by his timeless work for Pharrell and NIGO, we look back at the 10 best Jacob the Jeweler pieces ever.
Caitlin Clark x Nike Kobe 6, 'Chicago' Air Jordan 1, and Other Sneakers Releasing This Week
The 'Chicago' Jordan 1 and Caitlin Clark's Nike Kobe 6 headline this week's top releases.
Next Nigo x Nike Air Force 3 Inspired by Kintsugi
Here's how to buy the kintsugi-inspired Nigo x Nike Air Force 3.
How to Buy the Levi's x Nigo x Nike Air Force 3 Collab
One of two Levi's x Nigo x Nike Air Force 3 styles is releasing next week.
NIGO's Hot Wheels x Mercedes-Benz Project G-Class Past II Future Replica: How to Shop on Complex
The unique piece features a removable hardtop and custom Real Riders wheels.
'Bred' Air Jordan 11 Low, Nigo x Nike Air Force 3, and Other Sneakers Releasing This Week
The 'Bred' Air Jordan 11 Low headlines this week's best sneaker drops.
NIGO and Hot Wheels Team Up on Detailed Replica of Mercedes-Benz Project G-Class Past II Future
The attention to detail on the limited-edition piece is truly something to behold.
How to Buy Nigo's Next Nike Air Force 3 Collabs
Nigo's two new Nike Air Force 3 collabs are releasing this weekend.
Moncler Showcases Nigo-Designed Mercedes G-Wagon in SoHo (Exclusive)
The collection includes a handful of exclusive apparel and accessory pieces. Here's how you can snag an exclusive Nigo-designed parking ticket.