Supreme creative director Tremaine Emory is stepping down after accusing the streetwear brand of “systemic racism.” He is leaving the US label just over a year after his appointment in February 2022.
Emory confirmed the move in a resignation letter picked up by industry magazine Business of Fashion. In that letter, he claimed that racism was ingrained in the structure of Supreme.
The creative also raised questions in his letter about the “management’s inability” to communicate with him after a planned collaboration with artist Arthur Jaffa was called off.
Emory stated that the accused individuals were unable to “fully disclose the reasons why”, leading to “great distress and a belief that systemic racism was at play within Supreme’s structure”.
Supreme denies racism allegations
“While we take these concerns seriously, we do not agree at all with Tremaine’s characterization of our company and the handling of the Arthur Jafa project, which has not been halted,” Supreme said in a statement to the company following the announcement of Emory’s departure Media.
“For the first time in 30 years, the company has hired a creative director. We are disappointed that things didn’t work out with Tremaine and wish him the best of luck in the future.”
Emory was named creative director in 2020, shortly after Supreme was acquired by VF Corporation in a $2.1 billion deal.
Before joining, the designer founded streetwear label Denim Tears and worked as a consultant for a number of creatives including Kanye West and Virgil Abloh, as well as for brands such as Nike, New Balance and Off-White.
Since opening its first store in 1994, Supreme has achieved cult status and is known for its successful drop model with limited editions and well-timed capsule series.
This translated post previously appeared on FashionUnited.uk