Ouigi Theodore On The Gap x BKc Campaign That Features The Late Stephen 'tWitch' Boss: 'He Gave Us His Full Self'
GAP x The Brooklyn Circus (BKc) have collaborated on an iconic collection that celebrates the spirit of individuality and culture!
The campaign for the new limited-edition collection, which dropped on January 31, features several trailblazing stars including actress Indya Moore, fashion advocate Bethann Hardison, and the late Stephen “tWitch” Boss.
We had the opportunity to speak to Ouigi Theodore, the founder and creative director of Brooklyn Circus, to learn more about his new collab that’s designed to close gender and generational gaps! Check out the interview below.
BET: Congratulations on your new partnership! How did the collaboration between GAP x The Brooklyn Circus come about?
Ouigi Theodore: We spoke it into existence. I’ve been a fan of GAP since the '90s because it's an American classic at its core. About 5-6 years ago, I mentioned to a BKc alum on Twitter that I wanted to collaborate with GAP. The idea moved up the ladder. We believed that we could and we were ready when the time came.
BET: What was the inspiration behind the collection?
OT: The collection is a continuation of our focus to tell our untold stories and show the diversity in what it means to be American, Black in America, or an immigrant in America.
BET: How does the collection close the gap between style, gender, and generation?
OT: The Brooklyn Circus is centered on community and people first. The GAP was founded on the concept of bridging the generational gap in 1969. Together we are closing the gap on race, gender, and all marginalized communities through collaboration.
BET: How do you want people to feel when rocking pieces from the limited-edition collection?
OT: I want people to feel empowered, to feel seen, and understand that they are enough as both a leader and a student. Some days I am a student, other days I am in a position of power and leadership. That is the story for most of us if we accept the challenge.
BET: There are so many iconic people modeling in the campaign. How did it feel to see trailblazers wearing looks from the collection?
OT: I loved connecting and reconnecting with the amazing people featured in the campaign. I am a fan of everyone we casted, either for their years of trailblazing like the honorable Bethann Hardison or their current drive at such a young age like the young and talented Wanna.
BET: Stephen “tWitch” Boss was a longtime supporter of the BKc community and your close friend. Sorry for your loss. How does it feel that he was able to be a part of the campaign?
OT: Brother tWitch was a friend, collaborator, and big supporter of the brand. He gave us his full self in the campaign and we are proud to represent him in the best way possible. I know he is with us in full spirit as we share this project with the world.
BET: What's next for The Brooklyn Circus?
OT: Oh man, so much! We are in full swing with our 100-Year Plan of shaping culture, telling more untold stories, and creating more retail experiences across the globe!
FYI: The limited-edition collection features jackets, hoodies, shirts, sweaters, and trendy accessories. The looks are currently available online at Gap.com and in select Gap stores. Exclusive pieces are available at the flagship BKc store.
Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
