Fashion enthusiast Angelo Baque believes that society is entrapped in a "limbo of fashion"
In 2022, Jordan Brand tapped Angelo Baque for an Air Jordan 5 collaboration, marking a significant drop as it coincides with Jordan Brand’s 40th anniversary and 35 years since the original AJ5 debut.
Angelo Baque, a renowned figure in the streetwear scene, launched his own label, Awake NY, in 2012. Before that, he made his mark as brand director at Supreme in 2006.
The Awake NY version of the AJ5 takes inspiration from World War II fighter jets, a nod to the brand's roots in New York City culture. The uppers of the collaboration are built from full-grain tumbled leather, while the toebox receives a nice serving of suede.
Baque ensured the inclusion of the iconic reflective tongue, a feature that has become synonymous with the Air Jordan 5, and Awake NY's signature "A" is carved into the sidewalls.
The AJ5 collaboration has been released in two color combinations: 'Arctic Pink' and 'Black.' The pink pair features 'Fire Red' accents, the same shade as the original AJ5, paying homage to the classic design.
Baque approached the collaboration with a sense of responsibility, mentioning Virgil Abloh’s Off-White and Supreme’s Air Jordan 5 collaborations as high bars to match, not surpass.
The collaboration has gained popularity, with celebrities like LeBron James, Rihanna, and Gigi Hadid being fans. Michael Jordan debuted the AJ5 in 1990, designed by Tinker Hatfield, who is also known for creating the Air Max 1 and the Air Jordan 3.
Baque was wearing a vintage grey hoodie during a Zoom call, reflecting his casual yet stylish approach to fashion. Today, he is based in a New York office, continuing to create innovative and culturally relevant designs.
