BODEGA

Originating in Boston, USA, the famously secretive streetwear brand was founded by artists who wanted to change the narrative on what a retail experience should be. And Bodega’s experience is strictly reserved for those in the know. Anyone can shop at Bodega — you just have to know where to find it. Hidden behind faux storefronts in Boston and LA, their local approach to fashion covers everything from clothing to their bricks-and-mortar stores.

Expertly trained in his now largely digitised craft, sign painter Kenji Nakayama has long been a driving force behind Bodega’s creative vision. Starting out as a mechanical engineer in Japan before his move to Boston in 2004 to study sign painting, his background in industrial precision meant he fast gained notoriety within the industry. 

Nakayama’s recognisable aesthetic is down to how he juxtaposes his variety of fonts, colours, composition and his use of stencilling. Describing his signature hand-lettering as a “balance between meditation and highly-trained craftsmanship” it’s apparent that alongside his DIY philosophy, his mechanical background plays a headlining role in his creativity.

The 1461 Bodega was crafted with creatives like Kenji in mind. Banding together with Bodega to re-engineer our 1461 shoe, we’ve fused their mixed-material aesthetic and minimalist design philosophy with our iconic silhouette. Finished with the brand’s stand-out signature ‘HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT’ embossment, ‘BDGA’ across the toe cap with stand out DM’s yellow welt stitching and black and yellow heel loop.