Rick Owens
Rick Owens in short
Rick Owens is an American designer who founded his eponymous label in Los Angeles in 1994 and has been based in Paris since 2003. The house is celebrated for dark, draped silhouettes, monumental footwear, and a raw, brutalist aesthetic, alongside its diffusion line DRKSHDW.

Facts and background
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1994 |
| Origin | Los Angeles, based in Paris since 2003 |
| Designer | Rick Owens |
| Lines | Rick Owens, DRKSHDW, Lilies |
| Known for | Draped black silhouettes, Geobasket and Ramones |
| Price range | Luxury |
Rick Owens made his name with elongated, draped garments in black, grey, and earthy tones. His aesthetic is frequently described as ‘glunge’—a fusion of glamour and grunge. In 2003, he relocated to Paris, where he continues to stage spectacular presentations during fashion week.
Iconic Rick Owens designs
- Geobasket — the high-top trainer defined by its exaggerated tongue and sole
- Ramones — the high-top canvas trainer, prominently featured in the DRKSHDW line
- Leather jackets — signature biker jackets tailored with sleek, narrow sleeves
- Draped tops and dresses — the core of both the womenswear and menswear collections
Rick Owens: real or fake?
Authentic Rick Owens footwear is crafted from thick, supple leather, precise stitching, and a substantial, impeccably finished sole. Counterfeits of the Geobasket and Ramones are widespread, so it is essential to purchase through authorised stockists.
Sizing, fit, and care
Rick Owens clothing typically fits long and slim, whereas footwear often runs large. Consult the size guide for each specific model. Care for leather pieces using a nourishing conditioning cream.
Buying Rick Owens
Rick Owens is available via his flagship boutiques, authorised luxury department stores, and curated online retailers. Brands.nl does not sell products; we provide independent brand insights.
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Frequently asked questions about Rick Owens
- What is Rick Owens DRKSHDW?
- DRKSHDW is Rick Owens's diffusion line, offering a slightly more accessible aesthetic centered on premium denim, jersey, and the iconic Ramones trainers.
- Do Rick Owens shoes run large?
- Generally, yes. Many people opt for a half or full size down. Always verify sizing per individual design.
- Where is Rick Owens based?
- The house has been based in Paris since 2003, having originally launched in Los Angeles in 1994.
- What is the Rick Owens Geobasket?
- It is a high-top leather trainer with an exaggerated geometric tongue and heavy sole, standing as one of the brand's most celebrated signatures.
- Does Rick Owens design womenswear?
- Yes, the house offers full womenswear collections featuring draped dresses, sculpted tops, leather jackets, and footwear.
Geschreven door
Brands.nl editorial team
Brand editors — interior, fashion & lifestyle
Brands.nl is an independent Dutch brand guide that sells nothing itself. Our editors follow brands, materials and collections and describe them independently, so you know what you are buying and can find similar brands.
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Laatst inhoudelijk gecontroleerd: 5 november 2026