Japanese streetwear brand A Bathing Ape (Bape) launched its first New Jersey flagship location at American Dream Meadowlands in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The iconic Japanese brand is known for its influence on street wear and commitment to creative innovation. The brand aims to present a unique oriental aesthetic and incorporates the architectural style of Edo-Period Japanese temples into every store design, Bape said in a statement.
The new flagship will stock exclusive BAPE NEW JERSEY capsule, which spans Garden State-inspired tees, sweatshirts and headwear. The store environment at American Dream draws inspiration from the Garden State, with nature and earth tones highlighted throughout the store design and incorporated in the store’s exclusive BAPE STORE® NEW JERSEY capsule.
There is Japanese-inspired designs evident, presenting a unique oriental aesthetic value.
This year marks the beginning of the brand’s fourth decade and it continues to remain true to its classic camouflage pattern featured across other BAPE® retail stores, while introducing added elements of North American walnut wood finishes and Japanese greenery to embody a classical Japanese ambiance. This is a first for the brand, exploring beyond the original minimalist design style of other BAPE® stores, the company said in a statement.
The store design also incorporates details including walnut wood shelves and hangers, a Japanese Noren in signature BAPE® camouflage adorned on the ceiling, and the two phrases “Made By The Ape” and “Ape Shall Not Kill Ape” on columns as a nod to the brand’s core philosophy.
Key design focal points include the store’s sneaker sales area featuring a wooden slat wall design, BAPE® camouflage washi paper light boxes, and transparent glass for a modern, spacious look.
American Dream is the brand’s seventh U.S. store, following the November 2024 opening of its 1,500-sq.-ft. location at Wynn Plaza Shops in Las Vegas. Founded in Japan in 1993, Bape has over 40 stores worldwide, including New Jersey, Vegas, two in New York City, one in Los Angeles, one in Miami, and one in Chicago. Beyond apparel, Bape has embraced lifestyle segments including art, furniture, toys and more.
