Dapper Dan, Legendary Harlem Tailor, Style Icon and Modern Dandy Pioneer [PHOTOS]

Dapper Dan is a Harlem original. At 80 years old, his personal style and flair for fashion continue to amplify today’s definition of the contemporary dandy. Fashion has always been his playground. He is known for his Harlem store, Dapper Dan’s boutique, which operated from 1982-1992. The boutique known to insiders and locals, became the place to go to destination for up-and-coming rappers like Salt & Pepper and Eric B and Rakim, amongst others, whom he introduced to uniquely tailored high-fashion looks. His designs were primarily recognized by the hip hop community and nearly slipped under fashion’s broader radar–until Gucci copied one of his famous looks for its cruise 2018 collection.

This pivotal moment led to a partnership with Gucci that underscored the importance of diversity in fashion and culminated in the opening of Dapper Dan’s Harlem, a bespoke atelier, in 2018–placing his work and influence firmly back at the center of fashion’s conversation. The ultimate salesman of style, he reemerged on the scene, creatively finessing his personal style.

From red carpet arrivals to fashion’s front row, here is a look at his fun, sometimes quirky, but always dandy tailored style.