Who is Ronnie Fieg?
Born on June 16, 1982, in Queens, Ronnie Fieg grew up immersed in vibrant urban culture. At 13, he began working at David Z, a sneaker store on Manhattan’s 8th Avenue, rubbing shoulders with stars like Jay Z and Missy Elliott. This sparked a passion that would propel him to the forefront of streetwear.
Ronnie didn’t follow a traditional academic path. His classroom was the streets of New York and sneaker conventions. He learned design hands-on, listening to customers and studying brand archives. This practical approach helped him understand trends and develop his unique style.
Ronnie Fieg honed his education in the art of storytelling through products. His mentor at David Z, Sam Ben-Avraham (founder of Atrium and SoleSavy), taught him the importance of crafting a narrative with every sneaker. This led him to reimagine timeless models like the Air Max 95 or Gel Lyte III. Without formal training, he innovated outside traditional boundaries, prioritizing experimentation and boldness.
The Kith Universe: An Empire of Creativity
In 2011, Ronnie launched Kith, a brand blending casual fashion and innovation. His collaborations with giants like Nike, Versace, and Coca-Cola have become iconic. Kith isn’t just a brand—it’s an experience, with immersive stores, exclusive events, and a passionate community.
Ronnie chooses partners based on their cultural heritage and narrative potential. For example, his 2022 Versace collaboration fused Italian baroque with New York aesthetics, while Coca-Cola explored American nostalgia. Each collection includes reissued “archive” pieces with modern twists, like the 2023 Clark Wallabee reinterpretation using upcycled materials.
In 2015, he launched Kith Treats, a line of customizable cereals and ice creams sold in-store. This concept blends food and fashion with collectible packaging, reinforcing Kith as a lifestyle beyond a brand.
Music is central to Ronnie’s universe. His stores feature curated playlists, and runway shows often include live concerts. This fusion of fashion and music has energized the streetwear movement and inspired young designers.
Ronnie integrates music into Kith’s DNA through tangible projects:
- Collaborative playlists: In 2020, he launched Kith Radio on Apple Music, featuring exclusive sets by producers like Pete Rock and DJ Premier.
- Artistic partnerships: The 2023 Kith x Wu-Tang Clan collection included limited-edition vinyls and hoodies adorned with iconic lyrics.
- In-store concerts: Kith stores have hosted performances by Pharrell Williams and A$AP Rocky, turning launches into hybrid cultural events.
Personal Life: A Man of Passion and Family
Ronnie is a devoted father and husband. His wife, Shir Yaakov, often joins him at major events. Surrounded by loved ones who share his passion for fashion and culture, he draws inspiration and energy from these relationships for his innovations.
His wife, Shir Yaakov, serves as creative director for Kith Women, and his brother, Eric Fieg, manages logistics. Ronnie also involves his children in campaigns, like the 2022 Kith Kids collection, featuring his daughter in a ‘90s-inspired shoot. A philanthropist, he supports A Leg To Stand On, an NGO aiding children with disabilities, through auctions of unique sneakers.
Entrepreneurship and Stores: A Global Impact
The Kith Paris store on Rue de Marseille symbolizes streetwear elegance. With marble floors and urban art-covered walls, it embodies Ronnie’s luxe-street blend. Exclusive events and live launches there are legendary.
Immersive architecture:
- Kith Tokyo (opened in 2021): Designed with Japanese architect Tatsuo Hori, the space blends minimalism with natural elements, like an indoor bonsai garden.
- Kith Miami: Located in the Design District, the store includes a collaborative café with Sadelle’s, famous for its truffle bagels.
Retail strategy: Kith stores operate like private clubs, with VIP access for Kith Loyalty Program members, offering collection previews and stylist consultations.
Ronnie Fieg is not just an entrepreneur—he’s a pioneer who redefined the shopping experience and streetwear style globally. His commitment to innovation and passion for fashion and music continue to shape new trends in the industry.
Challenges and Recognition
Challenges: In 2017, a failed Adidas collaboration threatened Kith’s reputation. Ronnie turned the setback into an opportunity, launching a self-funded Kith Classics collection, proving his creative independence.
Awards:
- Footwear News “Person of the Year” (2017).
- CFDA “Fashion Innovator Award” (2021).
Future projects: A 2025 Ferrari collaboration is planned, featuring a clothing capsule and a limited edition of 250 sneakers inspired by classic cars.
Cultural Legacy
Ronnie Fieg popularized “drop culture” with themed monthly launches (e.g., Kith Monday Program). His influence extends beyond fashion:
- Kith Cinema: In 2023, he produced a short film with Spike Lee, Street Dreams, exploring sneaker history in Brooklyn.
- Education: He funds scholarships at the Fashion Institute of Technology for students from underserved communities.
Conclusion: A Visionary’s Legacy
A tireless visionary, Ronnie Fieg has elevated streetwear into a universal language, blending art, music, and community engagement. His next challenge? Making Kith timeless, like Converse or Levi’s, while preserving the boldness that propelled him to the top.
