Akomplice is a Colorado-born streetwear brand founded in 2004 by brothers Mike and Patrick Liberty (surnames derived from their brand philosophy rather than birth name). Starting from the trailer park of the small mountain town of Paonia, Colorado — far from the fashion capitals of New York or Los Angeles — the brand built a global following through concept-driven, politically engaged graphic design and an ethos of “evolution through innovation.”
Key Facts
- Founded: 2004
- Founders: Mike and Patrick Liberty (née McCarney)
- Headquarters: Colorado, USA
- Industry: Streetwear, Lifestyle
History
Mike and Patrick conceived Akomplice at 18 and 20 years old, with no fashion industry experience — their background was in music. They began with nine designs in their first collection and gradually expanded, overcoming the disadvantage of being Colorado-based in an industry centred elsewhere. Their Statue of Liberty holding a gun — symbolising liberty coming from the barrel — became one of the most recognised graphics in independent streetwear and set the tone for the brand’s politically outspoken identity.
Within ten years, Akomplice was stocked in over 250 stores across 33 countries. Notable collaborations include projects with Wu-Tang Clan’s Raekwon, MF DOOM, J Dilla, Joey Bada$$, ASICS, and Ride Snowboards, as well as Nike Sportswear, which commissioned design work from the brothers on multiple occasions. The brand also raised over $25,000 for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe through a solidarity clothing release in 2016.
Aesthetic
Akomplice’s designs are concept-driven rather than logo-driven — each piece is anchored to a social, political, or philosophical idea. The brand draws from hip-hop culture, skateboarding, BMX, environmental activism, and world politics, appealing to a broad demographic of skaters, rappers, college students, and politically engaged consumers. Its colour palette and print approach are vivid, layered, and deliberately out of step with minimalist streetwear trends.
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