In a buzzing Brooklyn studio, designer Abhi Janamanchi, Brand Director and co-founder of le PÈRE, is reshaping the boundary where music, fashion, and art converge. Alongside CEO and founder Ryan Wright, Janamanchi has reimagined how creativity and collaboration could coexist in an industry often driven by singular visions. Originally carving out a successful career in the music industry, working with artists such as Steve Lacy and Omar Apollo, Janamanchi saw an opportunity to blend his collaborative ethos with fashion.
From Music to Fashion: A New Canvas for Creativity
In his early career, Janamanchi built a network of diverse creatives who amplified the work of young musicians. This collaborative, community-driven approach became the foundation for le PÈRE, which now operates as both a fashion brand and a cultural space.
“We had built this network of people who were connected not just by geography but by shared goals and values,” Janamanchi shares. “I wanted le PÈRE to be a canvas for these creatives to bring their work to a larger audience. With fashion, we’re giving them a way to share their stories beyond digital platforms, making it tangible.”
With a studio in Brooklyn’s Lower East Side and a flagship store soon to open in Los Angeles, le PÈRE is more than just a clothing label—it’s a platform where creative expression and cultural identity intersect.
Exploring Masculinity and New Fashion Narratives
One of le PÈRE’s hallmarks is its nuanced approach to masculinity. In a landscape where gender expression is fluid and evolving, the brand’s collections explore what Janamanchi describes as a “sensual, expressive masculinity.” This philosophy has led to the creation of pieces that juxtapose traditionally masculine elements with softer, more fluid aesthetics.
For instance, le PÈRE’s reimagined football jersey—aptly titled “Joy Boy”—uses a sparkly mesh fabric, transforming a hyper-masculine symbol into something unexpected. “I wanted to create something that people feel empowered wearing, even if it’s a bit outside their comfort zone,” Janamanchi explains. “We design to challenge norms but also to remain accessible.”
Each season, le PÈRE collaborates with a curated selection of artists who bring distinct perspectives and stories to the brand’s identity. Whether it’s turning hand-drawn sketches into prints or transforming animations into textile designs, le PÈRE’s commitment to artist-driven expression stands out. “Our goal is to give artists the freedom to explore their narratives, and in turn, that enriches the brand’s story.”
Building Community Through Retail Spaces and Events
For Janamanchi, le PÈRE’s identity extends beyond retail. The brand’s New York store doubles as a community event space, a decision rooted in his desire to create an inclusive experience. “Not everyone can afford our pieces, but that doesn’t mean they can’t participate,” he explains. “Our events bring people together, allowing us to connect with fans and supporters in a meaningful way.”
le PÈRE’s events regularly attract a mix of returning fans and new visitors, highlighting the brand’s cultural appeal. Janamanchi sees these gatherings as a crucial part of the brand’s growth. “When people come back asking about the next event, we know we’re doing something right,” he says. “It’s not just about sales; it’s about building a community that feels connected to what we’re creating.”
The upcoming Los Angeles store is a new chapter for le PÈRE, allowing the brand to expand its reach while maintaining its roots in community and cultural engagement. “Every city is different, but artists and creatives are everywhere,” he notes. “We want each location to be an open space where people can experience art and fashion in a way that feels inclusive and personal.”
Navigating Trends and Staying True to the Brand’s Core
As the fashion industry continues to evolve, Janamanchi is committed to remaining authentic. le PÈRE embraces both the fluid narratives around gender expression and the experimental nature of its collaborations. Janamanchi acknowledges the challenge of balancing cultural relevance with brand integrity, but he believes authenticity always resonates. “Our audience is here for the journey,” he says. “As long as our work remains genuine, we’re building something that connects.”
Criticism, he adds, is part of the process. “I value criticism for the perspective it brings,” he reflects. “But in the end, we have to stay true to our vision. The artists I admire most are those who didn’t let early criticism derail them. They kept going, and eventually, the world caught up.”
The Creative Journey: From Indie Label to Fashion Collective
Reflecting on his career path, Janamanchi credits his upbringing and early experiences for shaping his approach. Although he once considered a career in politics, even interning at the Obama White House, his passion for music led him down a different path. “Music was always supposed to be a side project,” he admits, “but eventually, it became the thing that sustained me.”
Today, Janamanchi’s work at le PÈRE embodies the collaborative spirit he developed during his indie music days. “Bringing people together is what excites me,” he says. “Whether it’s musicians, artists, or designers, I want le PÈRE to be a place where creativity flows freely.”
With an approach that emphasizes community and collaboration, le PÈRE is carving out a unique space in the fashion world. In an industry often driven by singular visions, Janamanchi and Wright’s collective approach to brand identity is refreshing. It’s a brand that thrives on a shared vision, bringing diverse perspectives under one creative roof.
As le PÈRE grows, Janamanchi and Wright’s mission is clear: to create a brand where every piece, event, and collaboration tells a story that resonates deeply, challenging norms while building an enduring community.
Photos by Conor Cunnigham
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Q&A
What is le PÈRE?
le PÈRE is a community-driven fashion brand co-founded by Abhi Janamanchi and Ryan Wright, blending art, music, and innovative fashion design.
Who are the founders of le PÈRE?
The brand was founded by Brand Director Abhi Janamanchi and CEO Ryan Wright, both of whom bring unique creative and leadership skills to the label.
How does le PÈRE approach masculinity in fashion?
le PÈRE’s collections explore a concept they call “sensual, expressive masculinity,” blending traditional masculine elements with softer, more fluid designs.
Learn more about le PÈRE at www.lepere.com, follow them on Instagram @lepere, or visit their stores in New York and in Los Angeles.
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