Emerging brand SEKS has quickly made a name for itself in the New York fashion scene with its bold designs and celebrity endorsements, challenging traditional norms since its rebranding in 2023.
In the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of New York fashion, the brand SEKS has emerged as a disruptive force, challenging traditional norms with its bold and provocative designs. Founded by designer Abel Cepeda Ljoka and his partner Will Kowall, SEKS has quickly established itself as a leader in contemporary fashion, attracting attention from A-list celebrities and significant media coverage across music, television, and pop culture.
SEKS started its journey in October 2019 under the name “Seks 5th Avenue,” an homage to the renowned shopping strip in Manhattan. However, a legal conflict with the luxury retailer Saks Fifth Avenue required the brand to reinvent itself. On January 1, 2023, Seks 5th Avenue rebranded to simply ‘SEKS’—a transformative decision that set the stage for its current rise.
Abel Cepeda Ljoka’s path to establishing SEKS is deeply personal. Born in Mendoza, Argentina, Ljoka cultivated his passion for fashion from childhood, immersed in his parents’ sewing machine store. Learning to sew early in life honed the meticulous craftsmanship that is a hallmark of SEKS. His eclectic upbringing, including time spent with his pet puma, reflects the unconventional spirit that informs his creative vision.
After relocating to New York in 2008, Ljoka transitioned into the nightlife scene as a popular go-go dancer, where he designed outfits for himself and fellow performers. It was during this period that he met Kowall, whose business acumen would complement Ljoka’s artistic vision. The duo founded SEKS as a vehicle for expressing bold, boundary-pushing aesthetics. Their collaborations have come to define the brand’s identity—rebellious, yet artistically refined.
SEKS’s influence on pop culture is palpable. Since its inception, the brand has attracted an impressive roster of celebrity endorsements. Stars such as Gwen Stefani, Avril Lavigne, Justine Skye, and Kyle Richards have donned SEKS pieces, reinforcing its standing in the fashion realm. Moreover, SEKS apparel has graced album covers for various artists, including Princess Nokia, Julia Fox, and Zack Bia, further cementing its integration into the music scene.
The brand’s striking designs have made appearances in live performances featuring renowned artists such as Madonna, P!NK, Kali Uchis, and Anitta. Madonna has been particularly influential in raising SEKS’s profile; during her 2023 tour in Milan, she wore a cropped black SEKS top depicting Pope Francis, an outfit that ignited international controversy and significant media discussions. This exemplifies SEKS’s flair for combining fashion with provocative societal commentary.
In addition to its presence in music, SEKS designs have found their way onto popular television shows like “Emily in Paris,” “Ziwe,” and “The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip.” Music videos also showcase SEKS’s craftsmanship, with artists like Latto, Jesy Nelson, Kevin Abstract, and Charli XCX wearing its distinctive pieces, intertwining fashion with storytelling in dynamic ways.
Based in Manhattan’s Garment District, SEKS distinguishes itself by producing each item in-house—an increasingly rare approach in today’s rapidly evolving fashion industry. Ljoka’s commitment to handcrafting ensures that every piece embodies a unique identity, appealing to clients who prioritize exclusivity and artistry.
The brand’s aesthetic seamlessly combines elements of rebellion and sophistication. SEKS designs often feature bold imagery, unconventional cuts, and intricate detailing, creating attention-grabbing attire suited for a variety of occasions—whether a custom gown for a red-carpet event or an avant-garde streetwear piece featured in a music video.
SEKS transcends the role of a typical fashion label; it embodies a movement rooted in fearless self-expression and authenticity. As the brand continues to capture the imagination of audiences and maintain its cultural relevance, it asserts itself not merely as a maker of clothing but as a significant influencer in the evolving dialogue surrounding fashion today. With its commitment to craftsmanship and a distinctive vision, SEKS is poised to play a critical role in the future of the fashion industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services
