Akron, Ohio native, John Dean, started Renowned LA while he was still a senior in high school. Nine years later, and now based in Los Angeles, the streetwear brand continues to grow being stocked in over 50 stores across the country, and internationally in South Korea and Japan.
We recently connected with Dean and talked about authenticity, the influence of Japanese streetwear brands, and the future of his brand for the next installment of “That’s 5.”
The following interview has been lightly edited.
What influences you?
A lot of my influences growing up come from the people that were close to me. My father, John Wesley Dean II, was a fashion legend in Cleveland, Ohio. I am continuing his legacy and taking our family name to the next level. My immediate family has helped shape me into who I am today. Some notable influences in pop culture are Pharrell, Kanye, Michael Jordan, and Lebron James. I feel in love with streetwear when Kanye and Pharrell were bringing Japanese culture into mainstream hip hop. Billionaire Boys Club, BAPE, and Evisu are some of the brands that I first fell in love with.
What the most overrated?
It’s hard to say what the most overrated thing is, but I’d say people in the industry who don’t believe in the culture but still want to make a profit from it. A lot of the time, you can’t see these people clearly because they have a lot of influence. What’s crazy is a lot of times these are the people who succeed the most. Crazy world we live in [laughs].
What’s the most underrated?
Maybe it’s just me, but I think the most underrated thing is time. Jim Carey said, “Most people spend their lives making grand plans for it.” We all need to take a step back and realize that all the small moments should be appreciated just like the major milestones. Spending time with loved ones, working on your craft in solitude, running to the store to pick up the newest Jordan’s (if you’re lucky), all these things should be appreciated. We only have so much time.
What are you most excited about, right now?
I’m so excited about my future with Renowned LA. I’ve been putting in work for that last 7 or 8 years in the fashion industry and my time has arrived. I have so many ideas in my head that I need to get out! I can’t wait for my dreams to come to fruition. I’m also excited to see this inevitable shift in streetwear culture; I’m always excited to see what’s next. Renowned and I will be one of the major players in this next wave of fashion, just wait and see.
What’s next for you?
We are looking to expand our team and create a more prominent global presence. We are in talks to collaborate with some cool nostalgic brands and superstar musicians and artists. Renowned LA will be on your radar soon; the future is bright for us. The key to all of this is consistency. You need to stay down “Against All Odds,” and you’ll be successful.
Bonus Question: Was that 5?
I believe that was five. All I know is that I got five on it.
