Gallery Dept. has one of the more unusual stories in contemporary fashion. Instead of beginning as a traditional fashion house, the brand developed from the creative work of artist and designer Josué Thomas. Its foundation was built around vintage clothing, art, experimentation and collaboration.

Today, Gallery Dept. is recognized around the world for its distinctive approach to streetwear. The official brand describes itself as a Los Angeles-based unisex clothing label focused on reimagining inspirations while protecting artistic integrity. citeturn0search0

The Early Story of Gallery Dept.

Josué Thomas grew up surrounded by creativity. MR PORTER has reported that both of his parents were artists, and that he developed an early interest in drawing, painting and vintage clothing. citeturn0search5

The Original Creative Space

Gallery Dept. initially functioned more like a creative environment than a conventional clothing company.

Thomas used the space to work with different artistic mediums and collaborate with others. Clothing gradually became one of the most important materials in that process.

Reworking Vintage Clothing

Vintage garments provided Thomas with something new clothing could not: history.

Aged denim, old jackets and worn footwear already contained character. By altering those pieces, Thomas could preserve their history while giving them a new identity.

The Rise of Gallery Dept.

The brand's first pieces attracted attention because they looked different from ordinary fashion.

Rather than hiding signs of wear, Gallery Dept. often made them part of the design.

From Art to Streetwear

This transition helped the brand connect with streetwear consumers who valued individuality.

The label eventually expanded beyond one-off creative pieces into a broader collection of apparel and accessories.

Gallery Dept.'s Cultural Impact

Gallery Dept. became particularly visible among musicians, celebrities and creative communities. Farfetch notes that the brand has been worn by high-profile figures including Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Hailey Bieber and others. citeturn0search8

The Importance of Los Angeles

Los Angeles remains a major part of the brand's identity.

Its culture combines music, automobiles, art, skateboarding and fashion, all of which can be seen in Gallery Dept.'s visual world.

5 Most Searched Gallery Dept. FAQs

1. When was Gallery Dept. founded?

Sources commonly place the brand's development in the mid-2010s, with the brand becoming formally established around 2016–2017. Farfetch identifies 2017 as the official founding period while noting that Thomas sold an early piece in 2016. citeturn0search8

2. Who created Gallery Dept.?

Artist and designer Josué Thomas created Gallery Dept.

3. Where did Gallery Dept. start?

The brand began in Los Angeles.

4. What inspired Gallery Dept.?

Vintage clothing, art, music, Los Angeles culture and the idea of transforming existing objects are central inspirations.

5. Is Gallery Dept. still based in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles remains central to Gallery Dept.'s identity, and the official website lists its Los Angeles store on Beverly Boulevard. citeturn0search2

The Future of Gallery Dept.

Gallery Dept. is now moving into a broader international phase. In 2026, Andrea Grilli joined the company as CEO to help expand its international business while working with Thomas. citeturn0search10

The brand has also continued cultural projects and collaborations across international markets. citeturn0search2turn0search12

Conclusion

Gallery Dept.'s history demonstrates how a creative studio can evolve into a global fashion brand without abandoning its artistic roots. Its story is closely connected to Josué Thomas, Los Angeles and the transformation of vintage clothing into contemporary fashion.