Since 2016, YITAI has been working its way toward becoming a staple in sustainable fashion. In December 2022, New York Weekly deemed them, “an industry leader in designer clothes that appeals to a younger generation of astute fashionistas.”
Based in Los Angeles, the brand was started by Yitai Geng when he was a senior in high school. He writes in his personal statement:
“I knew nothing about the fashion world, so I started to dive into learning and growing as an artist through self-teaching. I can still remember the transcendent moment of walking through Downtown LA in the summer heat carrying rolls of fabric for my first production run. That hope, ambition, and excitement of a wandering creative is still alive in the YITAI brand today."
Geng learned fast and started creating wearable art. With whimsical colors, patchwork techniques and high quality handcrafted details, YITAI has graced the backs of many fashion forward celebrities like Dwayne Wade, Gaten Matarazzo, and P.J. Tucker. It’s only a matter of time before we see someone like Harry Styles rocking a hand embroidered jumper by YITAI.
The lack of screen printed t-shirts and massive product releases set YITAI apart from fast fashion and some other “up-cycle” brands. Each item is high quality and would be a unique addition to any wardrobe. Here at Actuality, we even have our eye on a few items that should be coming back in the next restock.
Back in 2021, YITAI collaborated with dancer Sean Lew (Lewser) to create a unique line of seven garments “honoring the distinct legacy and multifaceted flair of Asian American culture.” (Pictured above).
Geng is very active on social media, sharing new designs and his favorite pieces YITAI has released so far. Follow along for more information about future releases and design updates on TikTok and Instagram @yitai.la and follow Geng’s personal account @yitaigeng on Insta and TikTok.