On Friday, October 4th, Spencer Badu hosted a panel discussion in a showroom he designed to invite the community to explore the core archetype of his eponymous brand. This event was part of a three-day pop-up dubbed "Badu Week," which included a day of pop-up activities prior and a rave planned for the following day.
The atmosphere of the showroom was filled with a warm, inviting ambiance, enhanced by the gentle scent of incense that lingered in the air. At the heart of the space sat a large bed, surrounded by stools where visitors gathered to be part of the discussion. This thoughtful arrangement fostered intimacy, encouraging honest and open conversations about Badu's vision.
The conversation, facilitated by Malcolm Duncan—a photographer, curator, graphic designer, and editor-in-chief of Actual Book Club—explored the importance of the uniform in defining the brand's ethos.
The setting itself, with its personal touches, reflected the same sense of individuality that the brand promotes through the “Youniform” series on its website and Instagram.
Badu states that Youniform was a way of challenging marketing standards and showing appreciation for the support he receives. "For me, 'Youniform' is like supporting and showing love to the people that support me, but it’s also a learning platform... just seeing what they wear with things that I made pushes and expands my expectations of what can be worn."
As a first-generation Ghanaian, Badu was raised with uniforms, a concept that subtly informs his brand. Though not overt in his references, his designs adhere to the essence of what a uniform represents through cohesion, utilitarian details like pockets, and the angular lines of the silhouettes. At the same time, he breaks from these confines by challenging gender norms; anyone, regardless of gender, can wear a Spencer Badu piece and style it however they want.
His sport-inspired jersey design also defies conventional expectations, pushing the boundaries of how these garments are typically made. This dynamic push and pull of what a uniform is—or should be—is reflected in the showroom.
Various sections throughout the space invited exploration. One area showcased a preview of a previous talk in London featuring Spencer Badu and Kazeem Kuteyi, editor-in-chief of New Currency. There was a fitting room for those who wanted to try on the available pieces, while another room displayed a curated collection of books and magazines from Off Brand Library.
The arrangement with all its quirky personalities like a condom on a side stool, or a pair of Spencer Badu socks on the floor, is unconventional for a showroom but feels natural in a house or apartment. The intimacy shows the intersection between design and lifestyle, and allows the audience to connect with the Spencer Badu vision. He even jokes that the brand may produce furniture someday.
Badu’s exploration of space encourages interaction, breaking away from the stiffness and sterility that may often be associated with a normal shopping experience. Instead, his showroom emphasizes a freedom of movement in ways other spaces do not.
According to Badu, while there is no imposed uniformity within the showroom itself, a deeper sense of uniformity remains in people's personal choices. "We can wear a uniform, but in life, we are able to be different and go to different places," he explains. "Back in the day, I would put on a uniform and go to a Catholic high school. Now, I’m able to put on a uniform and travel to different places." This reflects the fluidity of identity and expression that is central to Badu’s vision, allowing for individuality within collective experiences.
In envisioning a future store, Badu sees it as an extension of the showroom experience. "I guess you can call it an exhibition if you will. I want it to allude to the lifestyle of myself or a wearer of the brand... In the future, if I open a store, I want it to feel real," he shared.
The conversation concluded with a mingling session that extended into the following day at the Badu rave. Spencer Badu demonstrates that the brand values community both online and in person, recognizing both as equally important in fostering connection and engagement. Within this community, there exists a uniformity—a shared appreciation for Badu's ethos that brings individuals together, despite a diverse expression of style.
Words: Angel Agbontaen (@mp3girl000)
