Hypebeast Community Center: Greg Laboratory

Hypebeast Community Center is a new series spotlighting emerging, indie and underground brands in street culture — giving them a platform to share their story and explain who they are/what they do.

Give us the Greg Laboratory elevator pitch.

Greg Laboratory is a uniform-based, technical formalwear brand that bridges the gap between the outdoors and the city.

Who is wearing Greg Laboratory?

John Wick.

What is Greg Laboratory’s main message?

All the pieces are versatile; you can wear them in almost any situation.

When did you launch Greg Laboratory?

Technically, late 2020. But I revamped it to what you see now in late 2022.

Where are people wearing Greg Laboratory?

A hike, a city commute, the office ... assassin jobs, spy missions.

Why was Greg Laboratory created?

I couldn’t find technical formalwear in the market, so I decided to make it. I wanted to attend a wedding but still be functional doing it.

Is there a particular moment of inspiration that prompted the founding of Greg Laboratory?

When COVID paused our lives, I realized then that it was now or never. I also had two homies, Erasto Reyes and Ryan Blackway, that pushed me to start the brand as well.

What are your thoughts on genres of clothing? Does Greg Laboratory fit into any particular category?

Genres of clothing make it easier to understand and describe brands, with so many around these days. Though, I do believe that this can somehow misconstrue a designer’s intent. With Greg Laboratory, we’re trying to place it in this middle ground of traditional menswear and tech. Familiar but curious.

Having recently released your Season 3 collection, how has Greg Laboratory evolved since Season 1?

We’re slowly getting better at our craft, perfecting each garment every season, and also becoming more confident. Our voice has also been more refined in terms of storytelling and visuals. The great thing about being new is that we can make mistakes, be flexible, and adapt quickly.

There is meticulous attention to functionality in your garments. What are some of the priorities that inform your designs from a functionality standpoint?

We understand that essentially, when living in a city, you’re practically in the same outfit all day. There is rarely any time to go home and change. So we make sure that one: you can move in these clothes comfortably–that’s where the 2 to 4-way stretch fabrics come in. Second, there is enough storage in the garments to hold your belongings. Finally, the weather is ever-changing, so weatherproofing is important here.

Your clothing has an undeniable futurism in its sensibilities. Do you think about the future in your creative process? Do you ever look to the past?

I think the clothing has a touch of futurism because of all of the sci-fi movies I watch, but also because I believe it’s where the apparel landscape is heading. On the other hand, vintage military and workwear is a big inspiration for the brand. So we always look to the past to help solve problems or build upon what existed.

Have your roots in New York City played a role in the aesthetics or the principles behind your garments?

Yes, 100%. It goes back to the idea that we’re in the same clothes all day, so they need to be versatile. The great thing about NYC is that it is a playground for us to field-test everything we make.

Are there any other cities in the world that have inspired you? How so?

Tokyo, or Japan as a whole are at the top of the list. Japan has taught me to slow down and be attentional with my actions and decisions. It inspired me to accept the flaws in things. I’ve also been influenced by their minimalist approach.

The concept of a “uniform” is a central theme in Greg Laboratory’s vernacular. What is your relationship to uniforms and how would you define the term?

Putting on a uniform is like putting on my alter ego. It’s armor to face the world. Uniforms help make my decisions when getting dressed or purchasing clothing much easier. But also, it is a way to connect with people. You can quickly discover that you and another person enjoy the same things due to the clothing you’re wearing. Or as I like to say, learn you’re part of the same “tribe.” To me, uniforms are a way to simplify your life and build connections with other people.

You've also done a lot of behind-the-scenes work for other brands. Are there any lessons you’ve brought to your own label?

Yes. I think the two biggest lessons are one: having a tight-knit team on the same wavelength is critical. Second, is organization, but I’m still learning how to be more organized.

As we head into the New Year, what’s been the biggest highlight of 2024?

I think the recognition from friends to strangers, to Hypebeast, has been the biggest highlight. It pushes me to continue to work harder and soak up more knowledge.

Are there New Year’s resolutions for Greg Laboratory you’d be open to sharing for 2025?

I learned a lot from 2024. For 2025, the goal is to use those learnings to perfect what we do, go harder, get a little uncomfortable, and skirts!

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