Fun At CITY STATES
Founder & CEO Harry Walker and Creative Director Faiza Matovu
On what turned out to be a lengthy evening covering the beginning of London Fashion Week, our final event brought us to the heart of Shoreditch, to the pop-up shop doors of CITY STATES, a clothing line launched in London in early 2020, with a sole focus on artist collaborations.
We arrived at an already bustling occasion - impossible to miss, immediately impressed by the thrumming music, dancing, displays and tangible spirit of family and fun that spilled onto East London’s streets. Soon after, I was introduced to the man himself, Founder and CEO Harry Walker.
Harry, who is noticeably pleased with the night, takes a moment to talk with me about some of his influences and life experiences. The clothing line’s CEO studied archaeology and initially had dreams of being like Indiana Jones. He also mentioned, in passing, that he had spent some time in Los Angeles with the Kardashians; perhaps a story for another time…
The purpose of the pop-up event was to showcase CITY STATES collections, launched in collaboration with four curated artists: Chicago hip hop artist Vic Mensa, abstract artist Oscar T Wilson, graffiti artist and illustrator Nychos and British artist Ryan Gander OBE. Harry tells me that each piece is a limited edition and one of only one hundred. An exclusive collection of quality, sustainability and timelessness.
His creative partner, who he describes as having an ‘undying love’ for, and as the creative brains behind the brand, Creative Director Faiza Matovu, is visibly working the party like few can. She’s circling guests and making all feel welcomed, recycling used cups and bottles, while also taking moments to enjoy herself on the dance floor. The floor itself was the hot spot of the event; all eyes and energy on the group of friends who claimed the space as a centre for self expression, as they celebrate to the groove of Afro beats being spun by an empowered female DJ.
The event feels like a warm family affair, as Harry points out close relatives and friends in attendance. The entire space exudes an exciting youthful energy.
Overall the event is fun, a much welcomed feeling after a long London Fashion Week’s day.
When I asked Harry how he put all this together, he points to Faiza and expresses his gratitude for her involvement in CITY STATES. Further proof, in my opinion, that great things happen when we work with and empower black creatives, women and all people of colour.
Looking forward to seeing what comes next for CITY STATES? Keep up with their Instagram and website. We know that we can’t wait!
Photos by Verity Rose
