Chinatown Market, also known as Market, was founded in 2016 by Mike Cherman. The brand was inspired by New York City’s Canal Street bootleg culture, and it is easily recognizable by its smiley face logo—an emblem borrowed from the iconic smiley face found on shopping bags throughout NYC.
Chinatown Market is a streetwear label that brings a playful twist to fashion. The brand creates everyday essentials like tees, hoodies, and shirts, along with accessories such as rugs, basketballs, and bags. Their pieces often feature oversized logos, unique prints, and striking text, supporting their goal of making each piece feel fun, vibrant, and uplifting. Not one to fear reinvention, the LA-based label breathes life into classic streetwear by mixing parody-style graphics with edgy, underground fashion influences. And presiding over it all is the brand’s signature mischievous smiley face—an official collaboration with The Smiley Company—as seen on this Chinatown Market Monochrome Smiley (6 ft) Rug.
Chinatown Market is making a name for itself and gaining a devout following while at it. The brand champions positivity and inclusivity—values reflected not only in its designs but also in its marketing approach. By moving away from limited releases and the exclusivity club of many streetwear brands, Chinatown Market strives to build a community where everyone feels welcome. The result? The young label is rapidly gaining cult status, with standout collaborations with PUMA and Mike Tyson cementing its place in the streetwear scene.
