Abstract Illism
The Story
Innovative. Urban. Authentic.
Abstract Illism is a lifestyle boutique and retail establishment based in Buffalo, NY. We take pride in the high-quality comfort and ease of our pieces, but this line is more than just clothing—It’s a chance for Black creators to reclaim streetwear fashion that’s been exploited by outsiders profiting off our communities.
Urban culture is easy to love but difficult to understand. Young Black artists from poor neighborhoods have always been natural trendsetters. They transform the clothes off their back and inspire high fashion runways. Foreign designers love the look. They try to replicate the vibes. But they never credit the original creators. Abstract Illism will redefine this urban influence.
abstract, adjective /abˈstrakt,ˈabˌstrakt/ Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
Illism, adjective /il,izəm/ The universal language of vibes
Streetwear
We were a true streetwear brand because we came from the streets—born and raised in Buffalo's inner city. We weren't outsiders looking to capitalize on the culture; we were the culture, living it every day and understanding it from the inside out. Our roots ran deep in the community we served, allowing us to authentically connect with and uplift the people who shaped us. We touched the inner city because we were the inner city, and that authenticity was woven into everything we created.
Unique Design
We were a streetwear brand built on unique designs and styling that authentically represented our culture and identity. Every piece we created was a tribute to the things we valued most—our community, our roots, and the experiences that shaped us. Our aesthetic wasn't borrowed or manufactured; it was a genuine reflection of who we were and where we came from.
Dedication to the community
We were a streetwear brand rooted in Buffalo, dedicated to uplifting and empowering our local community. Our mission extended beyond creating quality apparel—we believed in being present, accessible, and actively invested in the people who made Buffalo home.
Some of the looks
The End
Like many good things in life, our journey eventually reached its natural conclusion. As life evolved, our team was pulled in different directions, making it difficult to continue operating as we once did. While our passion for the brand and community never faded, the paths we needed to follow individually began to diverge. The future remains unwritten, and who knows what it may hold.