The California Sky Collection was a major highlight of 2020, born from an exciting collaboration between Los Angeles visual artist Joshua Vides and the iconic Italian fashion house, Fendi. This line stood out within Fendi’s larger collection, known for its dynamic, often monochromatic style and unique flair. Find out more on losangeleska.
Meet Joshua Vides
Joshua Vides is a Los Angeles-based visual artist who rocketed to fame thanks to his bold, sketch-like designs. His signature marker style is instantly recognizable, and American audiences have previously seen his work in high-profile collaborations with major brands like Google, Nike, and Mercedes Benz.
There’s a fascinating backstory to Vides’ rise. A graphic designer and artist, his passion for streetwear and graffiti started in childhood. In 2009, he launched his first project, CLSC, with a modest $500. That was the spark that ignited everything.
From 2009 to 2017, Joshua honed his skills at industry giants such as The Hundreds, The Seventh Letter, SSUR, and Complexcon. He gained invaluable experience as a designer, salesperson, and marketing manager while building his own brand in his free time. This hustle paid off handsomely: CLSC quickly became a popular and recognized streetwear label. In Los Angeles, the brand is represented by over 400 retailers, twenty employees, and has its own flagship store on Fairfax Avenue—a major win in the LA street style scene.
In April 2017, Vides made the pivotal decision to step away from brand ownership to pursue his ultimate dream: becoming a full-time artist. By 2018, he had introduced his new artistic concept, “Reality to Idea.” Using a striking black-and-white environment, he began showing the public his perspective on contemporary art. He continues to create today, serving as a powerful inspiration for anyone willing to take a risk on their passion.
It’s worth noting that the collaboration with Fendi was not Vides’ first. This was his second creative partnership with the luxury brand. He first worked with Fendi on a unique installation at London’s Harrod’s, where the Fendi Caffe and the Peekaboo bar featured the artist’s key signature style elements.
Reality to Idea: The Studio
“Reality to Idea” is the design studio and production company that Joshua Vides founded in 2018. Based in Southern California, it serves as the platform where Vides continues to evolve his art and his passion for streetwear culture.
The company provides services to globally recognized businesses, constantly expanding its expertise and taking on exciting projects. As their website states: “From Reality to Idea.”
The Collection’s Core Theme
The collection leverages 2D illustration as its central theme, utilizing Joshua Vides’ signature black-and-white marker aesthetic. The Fendi California Sky Collection brilliantly translates this two-dimensional look across a stunning series of ready-to-wear pieces, accessories, and iconic handbags.
While the core concept is 2D illustration, the effect is surprisingly three-dimensional. The collection was showcased on the streets of California to highlight its striking graphic beauty. It successfully merges high-end streetwear with classic Roman motifs that Fendi fans know and love.
Features of Fendi’s California Sky
This is a truly captivating collection that harmoniously blends luxury with rebellion, and comfort with elegance. Inspired by sunny California, the line offers clothing for women, men, and children, ensuring everyone can find their perfect look. Let’s take a closer look at the collection’s key features.
- For Women: The California Sky line offers a diverse range, spanning from sporty items to sophisticated evening looks. Highlights include nylon windbreakers perfect for active lifestyles and cycling shorts, knitwear, and denim pants with original prints for everyday wear. The dresses and blouses in the collection add a touch of femininity and elegance to any ensemble.
- For Men: The men’s collection emphasizes functionality and clean lines. To create a stylish yet comfortable outfit, men can choose cotton blazers paired with versatile wardrobe staples like sweatshirts, T-shirts, and denim or cotton pants.
- For Kids: Even the youngest fashion enthusiasts can create bright, comfortable outfits thanks to the California Sky collection.
- Accessories: A special mention goes to the accessories, particularly the iconic Fendi Peekaboo and Baguette bags, which are available on the official Fendi website.
What the Bold Graphic Collection Conveys
Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi in partnership with Los Angeles visual artist Joshua Vides, the California Sky collection truly brings the Californian dream to life. The clothing from this line will inject brightness and style into any wardrobe. This range perfectly captures the free-spirited, playful, and effortless vibe of the Italian fashion house’s Spring 2020 collection.
The core black-and-white palette, coupled with various pieces featuring sky-blue and violet accents, is designed to reflect a stunning California sunset. This bold graphic collection immediately grabbed attention in the fashion world, already catching the eye of trendsetters like Yuwei Zhangzou and Chiara Ferragni. The brand also collaborated with Beyond to share the creative 2020 collection.
Ultimately, California Sky is more than just a clothing collection—it’s wearable art. With pieces for women, men, and children, it offers city dwellers a vibrant opportunity to express themselves and discover their unique style.
