VINTAGE WILLI SMITH WILLI WEAR Jumpsuit Black and Grey Sleeveless Lightweight

Willi Smith was an African American designer in the 70’s and 80’s who is credited with originating streetwear. This is a vintage WilliWear jumpsuit - and a piece of fashion design history. Willi had a focus on freedom of movement with baggy, unrestrictive silhouettes. He drew inspiration from global fashion, with a special love for India as seen in his fabrics and reference to dhoti pants, evident in the shape of this jumpsuit. His designs sought to de-emphasise gender binaries, class and race. Ideas that are very current. His designs were for everyone. Willi Smith was also known for his many collaborations with architects, film makers and artists like Keith Haring, Christo and Nam June Paik. He died at just 39 in 1987 at the height of the AIDS epidemic. He had an incredibly successful business that was cut far too short but should be remembered for his important contributions to fashion. Jumpsuit is in vintage condition and needs some TLC - but I wanted so much to showcase it. Call-outs: missing the top button, both sides at bottom of arm hole are pulled apart a bit at the seam. And there is a hard to see previously mended tear on the backside that needs reinforcement. Hoping someone will find joy in adding this piece to their collection!