Friend, freund, amigo, venn, chaver, dost, ami. Whatever language we speak, this universal noun describes that special connection of enduring intimacy, trust, and support between two beings, the glue that holds us together.
Since the inception of social media, the concept has been repackaged as a currency, but in its original, physically present, form it is so much more, beholding a land of riches that is beyond calculus.
Genuine friendships are the comforters that keep us from becoming enemies to ourselves, reminding us of what truly matters. A friend is someone to lean on, laugh with, confide in; a soul who accepts us, warts and all, without judgement. A friend compliments our weaknesses with their strengths, allows for our mistakes. A friend guides and encourages us, and lights the way when we are lost. Friendship forms the foundation that propels us to shine, encourages us to be brave, seeing beyond our own perceived limits. Sharing our dreams with a friend, then being accountable, can be the creative thrust we need in supporting our intentions.
It is friendship that is at the heart of Gucci HA HA HA, a collaboration between two brilliant men who have come together to conjoin their talents. Gucci’s maverick creative director Alessandro Michele has, since his appointment in 2015, been leading the way in hip, sophisticated, luxury fashion. And, in collaborating with the musician and actor Harry Styles on their recently launched HA HA HA line, he has found a dance partner who radiates so dynamically the zeitgeist of the day.
Photographed below, atop the hills of Topanga Canyon, California, the HA HA HA collection cements their friendship in the best possible way, and gives us all an opportunity to be a part of their playful union.
Grooming — Brent Lavett for Shu Uemura / Art of Hair
Digital Technician — Kevin Leupold
Fashion Assistant — Cameron Greene
Models — Naythan and Jaylen at Photogenics
Photographed at Rugged Ranch, Topanga, CA
A collection one can have faith in – when one side gets it together, they can be trusted to return the favor if the other falls. Truly an an amazing gift when “Lean on Me” does not actually require the other to lose their legs to earn it.