Celebrity Style
How the actress and entrepreneur is keeping LA in her heart.
After the sudden andtragic death of her partner Nipsey Hussle, Lauren London has been the embodiment of strength.
London started working with the athleisure brand in 2019, with the Forever Stronger collaboration.
The capsule collection dropped in June 2021 and quickly sold out its mantra-embossed tees and suede classics.
What was the inspiration behind this collection?
This time I wanted to be more inclusive with children.
Their strength has inspired me.
This time around, I was like, I have to make something for kids.
I love the visuals represented the authenticity of LA, which we don’t really see in media.
How does LA Crenshaw specifically influence the collection?
I used the same photographer and director and I did the first launch.
I decided to include people I know [who] have overcome adversity and shown their strength afterwards.
A friend of mine and her daughter is included and her daughter had heart surgery at two years old.
I just wanted to include people outside of myself that have inspired me with their strength.
They were all from LA as well.
How have you used fashion as a form of strength?
I wear a lot of jewelry that have real gemstones, moonstone and amethyst.
Just for my protection and for my energy, and always reminding me of what I need my intentions.
I have all kinds of stones on me at all times crystals that represent clarity, intuition, protection.
I also call this affirmative wear.
There’s an affirmation or a mantra, because sometimes you need a reminder.
How can we keep the authenticity of hip hop in street wear when it’s becoming so heavily commodified?
It’s really important that we pay homage and be very clear on our inspiration.
Lil' Kim is a fashion icon, Misa Hylton, Mary J.
[Blige] I think always paying respect to those women that have really changed fashion in hip hop.
Who are some hip hop icons that have influenced your personal style?
Just even to this day, I always look back on their fashion moments and get inspired.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
This article was originally published onJune 16, 2022
