In November, designer Rio Uribe staged a public fashion show titled 'A Poem and a Protest' at the Broad Museum in Los Angeles. This event marked a self-financed relaunch of his brand. Uribe rebranded his fashion line as 'Rio' in 2024, discontinuing 'Gypsy Sport' due to controversy over its name, according to WWD. The new collection features more cut and sew items, a shift from primarily vintage and deadstock materials, as reported by Submissionbeauty.
Rio Uribe faced public backlash and discontinued his previous brand. He is now relaunching with a self-financed, values-driven approach. This new venture embraces the very cultural specificities he was previously criticized for.
The relaunch points to a growing trend. Designers prioritize direct connection with their audience and authentic expression over traditional industry validation. This could reshape how successful fashion brands are built and sustained.
What We Know About Rio Uribe's New Fashion Venture
- The 'Rio' collection highlights gender fluidity and Latino/Chicano aesthetics. It also uses sustainable, natural, and reusable fabrics, according to WWD.
- The 'Rio' collection primarily operates direct-to-consumer. It maintains two wholesale accounts internationally, in Japan and South Korea.
- Rio Uribe ceased designing for specific genders due to sales data. This data showed girls consistently purchased items from the men's section. The decision also supports inclusivity for transgender and non-binary individuals.
- Uribe's choice to self-finance and adopt a direct-to-consumer model for 'Rio' strategically protects his culturally specific brand. This move shields it from industry pressures that previously caused issues.
What Inspirations Drive Rio Uribe's Latest Collection?
Rio Uribe's 'Rio' collection centers on gender fluidity and Latino/Chicano aesthetics. It also incorporates sustainable, natural, and reusable fabrics, as reported by WWD. The approach reflects a re-centered brand identity.
