The OKC based streetwear brand Group Fly will be opening the doors to its flagship store on Saturday, September 7.
In 2008, Group Fly founder Vernon Deas started his streetwear brand in the guest bedroom of his house. The brand has come a long way from just a few t-shirt designs. After several successful runs of lines, a few big name collaborations, and even a spot inside Zumiez stores, Group Fly is beginning a new venture; their flagship store The Hangar by Group Fly will open its doors in Midtown.
Group Fly Brand Manager, Dakota Watson has officially been with the brand since May 1 of this year but he has been doing work with Group Fly for about a year. He gave some insight on his position with the brand and what it has been like preparing for the opening.
“My job position at Group Fly consists of everything,†Watson said. “I handle design, development, photo sessions, look books, sales, and much more.â€
The idea behind The Hangar is to provide a boutique experience for streetwear enthusiasts in Oklahoma City. Group Fly will not be the only featured brand in the boutique. Other featured brands include Play Clothes, Black Scale, Mishka, and Fourstar to name a few. In addition to more well-known streetwear brands, skateboards, and skate brands will be sold in the store. The Hangar is also rolling out a sneaker consignment program and accepting even more clothing brands.
With help from artist Jerrod Smith of The Society, the set up of The Hangar will mimic a New York boutique style in feel. Smith’s custom-made fixtures and designs will make the boutique unlike any other streetwear store in the city.
Group Fly’s tagline is “Fly or Die.†So it’s only fitting that they name their flagship store with that theme in mind.
“We chose the name “The Hangar” because it ties in with the Tuskegee Airman and the aviation style of Group Fly,†Watson said.
“The Tuskegee Airman built everything from the ground up and strived to be better than anyone before or after them. For the mere fact of their perseverance and dedication we decided that we are doing the same.â€
The grand opening of The Hangar will be September 7 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The boutique is located in the heart of Midtown at 1116 N. Walker. The festivities will include prizes, live music, food carts and more surprises. And of course there will be apparel and sneakers galore so come out and pick up some merchandise.
Watson says the best part of preparing for the store opening for him and owner Vernon Deas is giving people a chance to see what Group Fly is all about.
“We want this to be a place that creates amazing product, lead people to strive to be a better person, and inspire people to fulfill their dreams and aspirations,†said Watson.
“I am excited about sharing the culture and vision.â€
If you’re interested in your brand being featured at The Hangar, contact Dakota Watson at Dakota@GrpFly.com.